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Created out of bare rock and a few scrub willows in 1862 by Osgood Mackenzie, it’s full of colourful, exotic plants from around the world. Highlights include the most northerly planting of rare Wollemi pines, Himalayan blue poppies, olearia from New Zealand, Tasmanian eucalypts, and rhododendrons from China, Nepal and the Indian subcontinent. These plants flourish here, despite the northerly latitude, thanks to the warm currents of the Gulf Stream and the foresight of Osgood Mackenzie, who planted over 40 hectares (100 acres) of woodland to shelter the garden.

Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful gardens in Scotland, Inverewe is a must for anyone who loves nature.

What to see & do

You’ll be given a map when you arrive, to help you find your way around – or explore without it, which comes with the exciting potential of getting temporarily lost amid the foliage! If you’d like some expert garden guidance, why not take one of the free guided tours that take place every weekday and most Saturday afternoons at 1.30pm?

Whichever route you take you’ll be rewarded with the wonderful colours and perfumes of exotic plants and trees from across the globe. Other highlights include the willow sculptures of Osgood Mackenzie and his daughter Mairi Sawyer in the walled garden, the lily ponds, the viewpoints and the wee jetty overlooking the loch.

The estate isn’t limited to the garden – there are also over 809 hectares of land managed for conservation. Try the Pinewood Trail, a 45-minute circular walk, which you can extend by going all the way to Poolewe village as part of the Inverewe Trail. If you have time for a more adventurous walk, try the Kernsary Path which will take you out into wilder countryside before eventually returning to the village.

Once you’ve exhausted the estate – and yourself – take some well-earned refreshment in the restaurant and have a browse in the Visitor Centre and shop, where you can buy plants to take home.

The gardens are run by the National Trust for Scotland. For more information including opening hours and admission, please see their website.