Hanbury Botanical Gardens Travel Guide

Nestled along the Italian Riviera, the Hanbury Botanical Gardens offer a stunning escape just west of Ventimiglia. These magnificent gardens span 19 hectares across an entire promontory, creating a perfect blend of natural beauty and scientific importance. The Hanbury Gardens are recognized by UNESCO for their outstanding scientific value and breathtaking landscape, making them one of Italy’s most remarkable botanical treasures.

When you visit Giardini Botanici Hanbury, you’ll discover an English-style garden with spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. Located at Corso Montecarlo 43 in La Mortola, the gardens are easily accessible and provide a peaceful retreat from the bustle of coastal towns. As you stroll through the grounds, you’ll encounter diverse plant collections and charming pathways that lead to unexpected vistas.

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The gardens, managed by the University of Genoa, have become a driving force for botanical research and conservation in the region. You’ll find the ancient olive trees particularly captivating, standing as living monuments to the garden’s long history. With the sea as a backdrop and rare plants at every turn, your visit to Hanbury Botanical Gardens promises an unforgettable experience that combines natural wonder with cultural significance.

History of Hanbury Botanical Gardens

The Hanbury Botanical Gardens began their story in 1867 when Sir Thomas Hanbury, a British entrepreneur, philanthropist, and botanist, purchased the La Mortola estate in Ventimiglia, Italy. This enchanting property, formerly owned by the Orengo family, became the canvas for Hanbury’s botanical vision.

Sir Thomas, inspired by his travels and botanical interests, transformed the 18-hectare (44-acre) property into an extraordinary garden. He collected and cultivated plants from around the world, establishing what would become one of the most important botanical collections in Europe.

The gardens flourished under the Hanbury family’s care for decades. Sir Thomas and his brother Daniel, a pharmacologist, worked together to develop the gardens with scientific purpose, introducing rare species and creating a living laboratory.

In 1960, the Italian State purchased the property, ensuring its preservation for future generations. This important transition marked a new chapter in the gardens’ history.

Today, the Hanbury Botanical Gardens are operated by the University of Genoa, which maintains the scientific and cultural legacy established by Sir Thomas. The university continues research and conservation efforts, collaborating with institutions like Kew Gardens in London.

The gardens stand as a testament to Sir Thomas Hanbury’s vision and passion for botany. His legacy lives on in this magnificent space where visitors can experience the same beauty that captivated him over 150 years ago.

What to See in Hanbury Botanical Gardens

The Hanbury Botanical Gardens span an impressive 19 hectares across an entire promontory, offering a wealth of natural beauty and architectural wonders. As you stroll through this English-style garden, you’ll discover breathtaking sea views at every turn.

The Villa Hanbury stands as the centerpiece of the gardens. This historic palazzo serves as both a museum and the administrative heart of the botanical complex.

Multiple terraces cascade down the promontory, each featuring different plant collections. The thoughtful layout allows you to enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean while exploring diverse botanical specimens.

One highlight is Palazzo Orengo, an elegant building that showcases the property’s rich history and the Hanbury family’s vision for this remarkable space.

The gardens boast an exceptional collection of citrus trees, creating a fragrant atmosphere as you wander the paths. These historic varieties represent the agricultural heritage of the Ligurian coast.

Plant enthusiasts will marvel at the extensive collection of cacti and succulents. The agave specimens are particularly impressive, with some reaching dramatic sizes in this ideal Mediterranean climate.

Don’t miss the charming Mermaid Fountain, a delightful feature that adds whimsy to your garden exploration.

For a moment of reflection, visit the 1947 Templetto where Lady Dorothy Hanbury is buried, offering a peaceful spot with stunning coastal views toward Capo Sant’Ampelio in Bordighera.

How to Get to Hanbury Botanical Gardens

The Hanbury Botanical Gardens sit on the beautiful promontory of Capo Mortola near Ventimiglia on the Italian Riviera. Located just a few kilometers from the French border, these stunning gardens are easily accessible by several means of transportation.

By Car: Take the A10 motorway and exit at Ventimiglia. Follow the SS 1 Aurelia road in the direction of France. Watch for signs to Ponte S. Luigi, about 6 kilometers from the exit. The gardens are well-marked along this scenic drive along the Ligurian coast.

By Train: Arrive at Ventimiglia station in the Province of Imperia. The train station serves as a convenient gateway to the Riviera dei Fiori. From here, you have a few options to reach the gardens.

From Ventimiglia Station:

Bus: Exit the station and walk down a short hill to the traffic lights. Take Line 1 bus heading toward the French border. The journey takes about 20 minutes and costs only €1-3.
Taxi: For a faster option, taxis are available outside the station. The ride takes approximately 7 minutes and costs €17-22.
Walking: For the adventurous, walking is possible and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The route follows the stunning Ligurian coastline with beautiful views of the Riviera.

Many visitors to the Ligurian region combine their trip to the gardens with explorations of charming Ventimiglia and other towns along the Riviera dei Fiori.

Hanbury Botanical Gardens Visitor Information

The Hanbury Botanical Gardens are a must-visit attraction in Liguria, Italy. Spread across 19 hectares on an entire promontory, these magnificent English-style gardens offer stunning sea views and beautiful walking paths.

Opening Times & Ticket Prices

Regular ticket: €10.00
School groups: €6.00 (minimum 15 people)
General groups: €7.50 (minimum 20 people)

Plan to spend at least 1 to 1.5 hours exploring these vast gardens. You’ll want enough time to follow the recommended itinerary and take in all the botanical wonders.

The gardens have welcomed visitors since 1872 and maintain scientific connections with important botanical institutions worldwide. As you stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll discover why it’s considered one of the most important tourist attractions on Liguria’s western coast.

The gardens contain extensive walking paths with beautiful viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean. You can follow the marked route to ensure you don’t miss any highlights during your visit.

When planning your trip, check current opening times as they may vary by season. The gardens offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultivated design that will delight plant enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, especially during summer months. The expansive grounds require some walking to fully appreciate.

Where to Stay Near Hanbury Botanical Gardens

Finding accommodation near Hanbury Botanical Gardens offers visitors a perfect base to explore this magnificent Italian Riviera attraction. Several excellent options are available within easy reach of the gardens.

Agriturismo Un Mare di Fiori is a popular choice among visitors. This charming farm stay provides a unique experience with beautiful outdoor spaces and lovely sea views.

For those seeking comfort with budget-friendly prices, the ibis budget Menton provides clean, modern rooms. Though located in nearby France, it’s still convenient for garden visits.

Beautiful vacation rentals are also available in the area. Many feature private pools and open spaces that showcase the stunning Mediterranean landscape.

The Locanda Dei Boi Ventimiglia sits within 6 km of the gardens. It offers WiFi in all rooms and convenient on-site parking for guests with rental cars.

Most hotels near Hanbury Botanical Gardens have flexible booking options and are fully refundable if your plans change. This makes planning your visit much easier.

When choosing your accommodation, consider towns along the Italian Riviera coastline. Each offers its own charm while providing good access to the gardens and other regional attractions.

Prices start from as low as $71 per night, making this area accessible for various budgets. With over 2,600 hotels to choose from, you’ll find something that perfectly suits your needs.

Things to Do Near Hanbury Botanical Gardens

After exploring the magnificent Hanbury Botanical Gardens, you’ll find plenty of other attractions nearby to enhance your visit to Ventimiglia. The historic Centro Storico (Old Town) is just a short drive away and offers charming medieval architecture and narrow cobblestone streets.

The famous Mercato del Venerdì (Friday Market) is a must-visit if you’re in town on a Friday. Here you can browse stalls selling everything from fresh produce to clothing and souvenirs.

For history buffs, the prehistoric caves in the area provide fascinating glimpses into ancient human habitation. These natural formations contain remarkable archaeological findings that date back thousands of years.

Ventimiglia’s beautiful beaches are perfect for relaxation after a day of botanical exploration. The waterfront area offers lovely views and several cafes where you can enjoy a refreshing drink.

The modern marina provides a striking contrast to the town’s historical elements. Take a stroll along the harbor to see luxury yachts and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere.

If you’re up for a day trip, consider taking a tour of the French Riviera, which is just minutes away across the border. The Customizable Private Tour lets you explore nearby Monaco and Nice at your own pace.

Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local Ligurian cuisine at the restaurants in town. Fresh seafood and regional specialties make dining in Ventimiglia a delightful experience.