A Garden Journey to Italy, Monaco & France!
September 14-24, 2026
With Christina Owen, & Ray Larson of the University of Washington Botanic Gardens
Join Us for a Garden Lover’s Dream Tour! Italy & France | Led by Christina Owen & Ray Larson
Dear Garden Enthusiast,
I’m Christina Owen, Director of the University of Washington Botanic Gardens, inviting you to join me and my colleague and fellow plantsman, Ray Larson, as we explore some of Europe’s most botanically rich and visually stunning landscapes—destinations beloved by gardeners around the world.
Discover the lush, temperate air of Italy’s Lake District; the Mediterranean warmth and fragrant breezes of Provence; and the subtropical splendor of the glittering French Riviera. These unique environments have nurtured some of Europe’s most iconic gardens, each offering a living tapestry of color, texture, and design.
We’ll wander through spectacular private estates, historic villa gardens, and hidden horticultural gems rarely open to the public. Along the way, enjoy meals inspired by the local harvest, sip wines rooted in centuries of tradition, and explore charming villages where nature, culture, and history flourish side by side.
Led by passionate local experts and shared with fellow garden lovers, this journey is designed to engage all your senses—and deepen your appreciation for the art and ecology of gardens.
We can’t wait to explore these extraordinary landscapes with you in bella Italia and beautiful France.
See you in bella Italia!
Christina & Ray
Journey Highlights
- With Christina Owen, director of the University of Washington Botanic Gardens and UWBG’s Curator and Associate Director, Ray Larson (photo to the right)
- Stunning villas and gardens of Italy’s famed Lake District
- Giardini di Villa della Pergola
- Hanbury Botanical Gardens
- Jardin Serre de la Madone and Clos du Peyronnet, Menton
- Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, St. Jean Cap Ferrat
- Guided visits and tours of the remarkable gardens of Italy and France
- Colorful Provençal markets
- Special Wine tastings with the producers
- The Roman arena of Arles
- Traditional mouthwatering multi-course dining experiences
- Historic walks in Bellagio, Aix-en-Provence, and Arles with local experts
- A fun group of like-minded travelers who share your passion for life long learning
Your Tailor-Made Journey
Local Cuisine
Gardens and Villas
Roman Treasures
Experience the flavors of Italy and Provence with meals crafted from regional specialties. Enjoy wine tastings in the French countryside, traditional dining in lakeside towns and village markets, and culinary traditions that celebrate the richness of each region.
Roman Treasures
Gardens and Villas
Roman Treasures
Step into the past with visits to ancient sites like the Roman arena of Arles and historic villages such as Aix-en-Provence and Bellagio. Explore UNESCO sites, medieval streets, and landmarks that reveal the deep legacy of Italy and France.
Gardens and Villas
Gardens and Villas
Gardens and Villas
Wander through iconic gardens and elegant villas across Italy and the French Riviera. Highlights include Villa della Pergola, Hanbury Botanical Gardens, Jardin Serre de la Madone, Clos du Peyronnet, and Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild—plus private garden visits curated just for this group.
Memories that will last a lifetime...
