The Secret Garden Hike In Delaware Will Make You Feel Like You’re In A Fairytale
By Kim Magaraci|Published April 12, 2018
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Kim Magaraci
Author
Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
The DuPont family left a huge mark on the state of Delaware, both from a business and an architecture standpoint. Each DuPont Estate seems more stunning than the last, but perhaps none is as impressive as the 1,000 acre Winterthur Museum, Library and Garden. H.F. DuPont was dedicated to preserving gorgeous open space, and his obsession with landscape architecture is a legacy that the staff at Winterthur have worked hard to maintain. Thanks to their efforts, one of the most underrated gardens is hiding in the back of the estate, between the Enchanted Woods and the Pinetum. When you visit, don’t let this one pass you by.
The gardens at Winterthur are some of the most beautiful gardens in the entire world.
On your walk up the hill, be sure to stroll through the Pinetum. Walk the Quince Walk trail to see deep pink crabapple, pale blue starflower, and quine blossoming in pink, red and white. By late April, you'll smell sweet Viburnum and spot white spireas, pearlbushes and carefully placed pink royal azaleas.
From mid-April to early May, he garden is bursting with the colors of lavender, lilacs, spiraeas, rhododendrons, cherries, viburnums, and crabapples. The entire garden is a sea of pinks, purples and white while it's in bloom.
The sundial at the center of the garden dates back to the 18th century. Here's a photo of the Sundial in 1908 at its original location, before the Conservatory was built.
The Sundial Garden is a true sight to see when everything is fully in bloom. The gorgeous lilacs, flowing white spirea, and the sweet smell of viburnums will take over your senses.
While a trip to Winterthur is a great idea any time of year, the next few weeks are the most enchanting time to visit.
Be sure to see the popular Azalea Woods and walk the March Walk, but don't forget about the hidden Sundial Garden, where you'll be whisked away to an otherworldly collection of blooms and blossoms.
While you’re at Winterthur, take an hour to explore the Enchanted Woods. Kids and adults of all ages will love walking through the Acorn Tea Room, skipping across the Serpentine Path, and sitting in the enormous birds’ nest.
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