Una fontana all'interno dei Giardini
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Villa della Pergola Gardens

4.7
·719 reviews·Alassio, Italy

Discover the enchanting Villa della Pergola Gardens, a rare English garden in Italy, famed for its vast agapanthus collection and stunning sea views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

July mornings

Agapanthus in full bloom

CrowdMedium
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Una fontana all'interno dei Giardini

Villa della Pergola Gardens

Best Time

July mornings

Agapanthus in full bloom

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the enchanting Villa della Pergola Gardens, a rare English garden in Italy, famed for its vast agapanthus collection and stunning sea views.

4.7
(719 reviews)

"A true oasis near Alassio, the gardens offer breathtaking beauty and an unforgettable guided experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Guided Tours in Advance

Essential for entry! Tours are at set times and sell out. Book online to secure your spot.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The gardens are hilly with paths, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Agapanthus Collection

The Agapanthus Collection

Throughout the gardens

Witness Europe's largest collection of agapanthus, exploding in vibrant blues and whites during July. A true botanical marvel!

Instagram+1
Panoramic Sea Views

Panoramic Sea Views

Various viewpoints

Savor breathtaking vistas of the Ligurian Sea and Alassio's coastline from strategically placed viewpoints within the gardens.

Instagram
English Garden Charm

English Garden Charm

Throughout the gardens

Explore a rare example of an English garden in Italy, featuring romantic spots and lush greenery, a testament to 19th-century design.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Visit in Advance

Reservations are essential for the guided tours at Villa della Pergola Gardens. Tours happen at specific times, and spots fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Booking online in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred time slot. Reddit

Prepare for a Hike and Parking Challenges

The gardens are located on the hills above Alassio, so expect a bit of a climb. Parking can be difficult in the area, so arriving early is advised. Consider comfortable walking shoes for navigating the beautiful but sometimes steep paths. Reddit

Best Times

When
July mornings
Why
Agapanthus in full bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring afternoons
Why
Wisteria in bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🏠 Villa Utopia ad Alassio, nel cuore della Riviera Ligure, si erge come un sogno che prende vita, immersa in un abbraccio di arte, bellezza e natura. 3 livelli collegati da ascensore privato interno, una master bedroom con cabina armadio e sala da bagno esclusiva. 5 camere, 5 bagni, uno studio privato, sala fitness, area separata per personale di servizio. La zona giorno regala un affaccio da car...
@gianlucatorre01
305.9K likes • 3.6M views

🎯 Book Guided Tours in Advance

Essential for entry! Tours are at set times and sell out. Book online to secure your spot. Reddit+1

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The gardens are hilly with paths, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring. Reddit

QUANTO AVRO' SPESO? E il mio voto lo vedi in fondo! SE FAI UN GIRO AD ALASSIO, LIGURIA PRENOTA O MEGLIO PRIMA PRENOTA E POI FAI IL GIRO! 📍 Osteria dei Matetti, Alassio #osteria #italia
@chissenefood
43.2K likes • 1.1M views
The gardens of Villa della Pergola are a must visit when staying in Costa Gallinara
costa_gallinara
22 likes • 615 views

🚗 Allow Extra Time for Parking

Parking can be challenging near the gardens. Arrive early to find a spot and avoid rushing. Reddit

🗣️ Guides Speak English

Don't worry if you don't speak Italian; guides are knowledgeable and often provide tours in excellent English. Reddit+1

Sometimes, the places we visit can change the course of our lives. Today, wandering through the serene gardens of Villa della Pergola, I found more than just beauty—I found a vision for my future. Nestled in Alassio, this historical villa and with its lush gardens @giardinivilladellapergola and panoramic sea views, whispers stories of the past while celebrating the tranquility of the present. As ...
lauravasilenko
146 likes • 3.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Guided Tours in Advance

Essential for entry! Tours are at set times and sell out. Book online to secure your spot. Reddit+1

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The gardens are hilly with paths, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring. Reddit

🚗 Allow Extra Time for Parking

Parking can be challenging near the gardens. Arrive early to find a spot and avoid rushing. Reddit

🗣️ Guides Speak English

Don't worry if you don't speak Italian; guides are knowledgeable and often provide tours in excellent English. Reddit+1

📸 Ask for Photos

Guides are often happy to take photos of you at scenic spots – a great way to capture memories! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(719 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Villa della Pergola Gardens for its breathtaking beauty, serene atmosphere, and the exceptional quality of the guided tours. The knowledgeable and friendly guides, often speaking excellent English, significantly enhance the experience. While parking and the uphill walk can be minor challenges, the overwhelming consensus is that the gardens are a highly recommended, romantic, and unforgettable destination.

"Beautiful garden, worth the visit. Reservations are a must. Parking is difficult and it’s a bit of a hike to get there so arrive early. The guide was wonderful, engaging and gave the tour in both Italian and English. He was very easy to understand."

Rachel Wright

"Very nice garden up in the hills above Alassio. It’s essential to buy a ticket in advance as the tours occur at specific times. We were shown round by David who was excellent - very knowledgable about the history of the gardens and it’s plants."

Matthew Barry

"You have to book on one of the guided tours (we had David who led us around and spoke fantastic English) and it is the most delightful find above Alassio!"

Francesca Ali

What People Like

Stunningly beautiful gardens
Knowledgeable and engaging guides
Panoramic sea views

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Uphill walk required

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The gardens are located on the hills above Alassio. You can reach them by car, but parking can be difficult. Taxis are also an option. Be prepared for an uphill walk to reach the entrance. Reddit

Parking is limited and can be challenging in the vicinity. It's advisable to arrive early or consider alternative transportation like a taxi. Reddit

Yes, it's possible to walk, but it involves an uphill climb. Wear comfortable shoes and allow ample time. Reddit

Many visitors find that booking a guided tour that includes transport or taking a taxi is the most convenient way to reach the gardens, given the parking and uphill challenges. Reddit

While local buses serve Alassio, direct public transport to the gardens is limited. It's often easier to arrange transport as part of a tour or use a taxi. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, booking tickets in advance for a guided tour is absolutely essential. Tours operate at specific times and sell out quickly. Reddit+1

Ticket prices vary depending on the tour type and season. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing information. Reddit

The gardens are accessible only via guided tours, which have specific start times. Check the official website for the tour schedule and availability. Reddit

No, access to Villa della Pergola Gardens is exclusively through guided tours. This ensures the preservation of the delicate environment. Reddit

The staff are attentive and may contact you if severe weather is expected. Some visitors have had tours proceed even with rain, finding it a unique experience. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Guided tours typically last around 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing ample time to explore the different sections of the gardens and learn about their history. Reddit

Yes, guides are very knowledgeable and often conduct tours in both Italian and English, making it accessible for international visitors. Reddit+1

The gardens are famous for their extensive collection of agapanthus, but also feature wisteria, roses, citrus trees, and unique species like Tetrapanax papyrifer. Instagram+3

While beautiful, the hilly terrain and emphasis on quiet appreciation might be more suited for older children. Younger children may find the walking challenging. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed, and guides may even offer to take photos for you at scenic spots. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Ristorante Nove, a Michelin-starred restaurant, is located within the Villa della Pergola complex, offering Ligurian and Italian cuisine with garden views. Instagram

Reservations are highly recommended for Ristorante Nove, especially given its Michelin star status and location within the villa. Instagram

Typically, the focus is on the garden experience itself. For refreshments, you might need to explore options in Alassio town or at the Ristorante Nove. Instagram

Ristorante Nove celebrates the flavors of Liguria and Italy, using fresh, local ingredients and drawing inspiration from the surrounding gardens. Instagram

Yes, many visitors combine a garden tour with a dining experience at Ristorante Nove. Booking in advance for both is strongly advised. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Look for viewpoints offering panoramic sea views, the vibrant agapanthus blooms, and the charming English garden elements. Guides can point out prime photo locations. InstagramReddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in private gardens and historical sites to protect the environment and other visitors. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more golden hue. Instagram

While not explicitly stated, it's advisable to check with the garden management beforehand, as tripods can sometimes obstruct pathways or be seen as professional equipment. Instagram

While not common, some specialized garden tours might cater to photographers. Otherwise, enjoy capturing the beauty during the standard guided tours. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Villa della Pergola Gardens offers a visually stunning experience, but families with very young children might find the uphill walking and the need for quiet appreciation a bit challenging. The guided tours, while informative, are focused on botanical and historical details. Consider if your children have the patience for a 1.5-2 hour walking tour. Reddit

For families with older children or teenagers, the panoramic views and the unique plant collections can be quite engaging. The opportunity for guides to take photos can be a fun interactive element. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes and that you've booked your tour well in advance to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Couples and Romantic Getaways

The Gardens of Villa della Pergola are an idyllic setting for couples seeking a romantic escape. The lush greenery, fragrant blooms, and breathtaking sea views create an atmosphere of serene beauty and tranquility. Instagram+1 The English garden style, with its secluded nooks and charming pathways, invites leisurely strolls and intimate moments. Instagram

Consider combining your visit with a meal at the Michelin-starred Ristorante Nove located on-site for an unforgettable culinary experience that complements the garden's elegance. Instagram Booking a tour during the wisteria bloom in spring or the agapanthus bloom in July will add an extra layer of floral magic to your romantic visit. Instagram+1

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Villa della Pergola Gardens is a photographer's dream, offering a wealth of visual opportunities. The vibrant colors of the agapanthus in July are a major draw, providing stunning subjects for close-ups and wide shots. Instagram+1 The panoramic vistas of the Ligurian coast offer dramatic backdrops, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. Instagram+1

Explore the intricate details of the English garden design, from the textures of the foliage to the charming architectural elements. Guides are often helpful in pointing out the most photogenic spots, and some may even assist with taking photos. Reddit Remember to check any specific photography guidelines with the venue, and always be mindful of other visitors and the delicate garden environment. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Design of Villa della Pergola Gardens

The Gardens of Villa della Pergola are a remarkable example of an English garden created in Italy during the late 19th century. Originally established by the Hambury family, who were instrumental in creating the famous nearby Hanbury Gardens, these gardens were later developed by others who were drawn to the sunny Ligurian coast. Instagram The design emphasizes a romantic aesthetic, with winding paths, secluded seating areas, and a focus on creating a tranquil escape with stunning sea views. Instagram The gardens have undergone significant restoration efforts to preserve their historical charm and botanical richness. Instagram

One of the most celebrated aspects of the gardens is their extraordinary collection of plants. Villa della Pergola is renowned for housing Europe's largest collection of agapanthus, which bursts into spectacular bloom during July, transforming the landscape into a sea of blues and whites. Instagram+1 Beyond the agapanthus, visitors can admire a variety of other flora, including wisteria that carpets pergolas in spring,Instagram roses, citrus trees, and even more exotic species like the Tetrapanax papyrifer, known for its 'pith paper'. Instagram The careful curation of these plants contributes to the garden's unique and ever-changing beauty throughout the seasons. Instagram

The experience at Villa della Pergola is deeply intertwined with its guided tours. Access is exclusively through these tours, which are led by knowledgeable guides who share insights into the garden's history, plant life, and design principles. Reddit+1 The guides often speak multiple languages, including excellent English, making the visit accessible and informative for a global audience. Reddit This approach not only protects the delicate ecosystem but also enriches the visitor's understanding and appreciation of this horticultural gem. Reddit

Experiencing Villa della Pergola Gardens: Tips from Visitors

Visitors consistently rave about the beauty and tranquility of Villa della Pergola Gardens, often describing it as a 'must-see' and a 'true oasis' near Alassio. Reddit The guided tours are frequently highlighted as a positive aspect, with guides praised for their knowledge, engaging delivery, and kindness. Reddit Many reviewers mention specific guides like David, who provided excellent commentary in fluent English. Reddit The opportunity for guides to take photos at scenic spots is also a much-appreciated touch. Reddit

Practical advice from visitors emphasizes the importance of booking tours in advance, as they are essential for entry and often sell out. Reddit+1 The hilly terrain and potential parking difficulties are also frequently mentioned, leading to recommendations to wear comfortable shoes and arrive early. Reddit Despite these minor challenges, the overwhelming sentiment is one of delight and strong recommendation, with many visitors stating they truly enjoyed their experience and would highly recommend it to others. Reddit

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