Lotusland

Description:

• 
  Madame Gana Walska was an eccentric Montecito resident who devoted her life to cultivating 37 acres of lush botanical gardens on her estate. Each area of the landscape is a microcosm of an environment, from cacti to cycads, and more lotuses than you can imagine (as the name of the gardens suggests). Since woman of the house was not a fan of flowers, the rose garden is the only area with traditional blooms. Elsewhere on the estate you'll see citrus orchards, succulents, a hedge maze, curious gnome-like statues from France, a pool lined with giant clam shells, and more. It's required to sign up for a guided tour, and guides often share tales of Madame Walska's storied past and the reasons for her obsession with particular aspects of her beloved estate.
• © NileGuide2013