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Parks and Gardens |
Park Lage
Rua Jardim Bôtanico, Jardim Bôtanico
The perfect tranquil break from the hustle and bustle of central Rio. This beautiful park, designed by an English landscape architect in 1840, with naturalised tropical areas interspersed with more formal gardens, lawns and lakes, lies at the foot of Corcovado, in the shadow of Christ the Redeemer. The many walking trails through the park lead you to hidden gems such as grottoes and pergolas, and you’ll come across monkeys roaming freely through the mango plantations. Botanical Gardens
Rua Jardim Bôtanico, Jardim Bôtanico
The 141 hectares of Rio's Botanical Gardens are home to a wide range of plant species from Brazil and all over the world - 5000 species in total. The Imperial Palms, planted in 1809 by Prince Regent John VI, are among its most spectacular attractions. Huge trees decked with orchids contrast with giant Victoria regia lilies, bromeliads, royal poincianas and tropical foliage.
The Botanical Gardens is a favourite hideaway for nature lovers, sweethearts and all those seeking peace and tranquillity. |
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Burle Marx
The home and gardens of landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx
Barra de Guaratiba, outskirts of Rio de Janeiro
In 1949, Brazil’s first ever landscape architect - and the designer of the iconic patterned pavements which grace the promenades of Copacabana and Ipanema beaches - bought a small estate just outside Rio in which to store his expanding tropical plant collection. Marx lived in the small house and built up an astonishing collection of 3500 varieties of mostly native flora, many of which are rare or endangered. Before his death in 1994, Marx bequeathed the collection to the people of Brazil and the 100-acre estate was deemed a national monument. Tours are available of the quirky interiors of the house and C16th chapel while botanists will have a field day in the inspired and inspiring gardens. |
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