Multi-Day Garden Trips

Discover The World Through Its Gardens

Tired of rushed sightseeing and crowded tourist spots? So are we. At Carex Tours, we believe there’s a better way to experience a country – through its gardens.

If you’d rather wander an 18th-century garden than wait in line for a monument selfie, you’ve found your tribe.

Check Out Our Upcoming Garden Trips

Our tours take you to the finest gardens in each destination, with plenty of time to look around, reflect, and ask questions. You might be a seasoned garden traveler, following in Monty Don’s footsteps. Or maybe you’re just starting to mix travel with your love of gardens. Either way, we have an itinerary for you.

7-Day_Le_jardin_exotique_de_Monaco2_-French-Riviera-Carex

Why Choose Carex Tours

Tours led by garden experts

Access to private gardens

Intimate Groups

Meaningful encounters

Cream-of-the-crop design

What Our Carexplorers Are Saying About Us!

				J.G. H.			

							Dutch Wave Gardens was our first trip with Carex, and we’re very glad we went. We’re a mixed couple – one gardener and one non-gardener – and the tour kept us both happy and engaged all the way through. In fact, it was even a bit inspiring. Our knowledgeable and experienced tour leaders provided just the right amount of background information and we saw an amazing variety of Dutch Wave-style gardens at their peak season. The non-garden parts of the tour were great, too. We also enjoyed meeting and getting to know our other tour participants, and the accommodations and transportation were excellent. Many thanks to the Carex team for providing an amazing Dutch Wave Gardens tour experience and many wonderful memories. We’re already thinking about our next Carex tour.
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 8/22/2026(opens in a new tab)

				Roland K.			

							Just returned from a delightful 9 days in the Netherlands on the Dutch Wave Tour.  Accommodations were excellent, including the hotels and bus transport.  The 13 gardens were a nice mix of public and private gardens.  I especially enjoyed those where we got to meet the persons involved in designing and building their gardens.  Mellow group of twenty, smoothly guided by Chris and Kitty.  I am not a garden expert, but I discovered my home garden is actually a variation of the "Dutch Wave", and I've been adding edits inspired by me trip since I've gotten back.
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 8/22/2026(opens in a new tab)

				Elizabeth S.			

							My English gardens tour was the trip of a lifetime for me. I have longed to visit the gardens I had only read about and finally it was time. Everything about the Carex tour was beautifully considered, our accommodation, the meals, even a Michelin star lunch at the wonderful Gravetye Manor. We had a comfortable coach and two engaging tour guides, Chris ‘seatbelts’ Walsh and Kitty. Chris would discuss the gardens we were heading to about 20 minutes out. The history of the gardens and what to look out for and Kitty would let us know about the architecture of the area. We had a great bunch of fellow garden enthusiasts, made some wonderful friends. But it was all about the gardens and they were all wonderful. I’m not sure I could pick a favourite, maybe Sissinghurst. It surely was as magical and inspiring as I imagined. But Pettifers and Great Dixter were amazing as well. Having had Carex tours do all the organising, purchasing tickets to gardens, accommodation, meals and travel meant I could just enjoy and soak up the experience.
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 6/23/2026(opens in a new tab)

				Susan S.			

							The Chelsea Garden Flower Show and Garden Tour offers an exceptional look at beautiful gardens in Southern England. This small group tour, lead by warm, friendly, expert guides, includes some group experiences but also plenty of time to wander at your own pace to explore the beauty that surrounds you daily.  With most meals provided and comfortable lodgings, tour members are free to spend their time and energy  focusing on the gardens, sharing their experiences, and making new gardening friends (and shopping in the garden gift shops.)  This review isn't complete without a few images that speak for themselves.
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 6/12/2026(opens in a new tab)

				Deborah D.			

							Dreams do come true! I had been thinking about this trip, Great Gardens of England, May 2026, for probably 15 years and got real about it in the last two and narrowed it down to Carex Tours. And I’m so happy I did: fabulous group of women (our tour happened to be all women but apparently that’s not the norm.) Between Chris and Kitty, our valiant tour guides and by the way that title goes way beyond -what they provided us with such rich detail and knowledge from having been in the gardens multiple times . They covered every base and kept us all in line with a lot of humor. An immense amount of humor! They just had so many gems, insights and information about each of the different gardens we were visiting: what to look for where to go and of course where to end up so we were all on time! Our fabulous and very skillful bus driver, Michal, maneuvered a very comfortable bus (brand new!) in and out of so many tight situations that I just couldn’t imagine! And I thought I was good with backing up my 8x4 trailer. Fabulous tour I learned so much and I counted: I took over 1600 photos- now the tough part is to edit the photos and figure out the five things I’m going to do differently in my garden in the next six months, all because of this wonderful tour! There were so many people  on this tour that that left an impression on my heart- I will keep connected with many of them! I can’t wait for the next tour!   Deb Dodds
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 6/09/2026(opens in a new tab)

				Betsy F.			

							Absolutely fantastic experience!  The tour staff were excellent, the gardens were in full bloom and our fellow travelers were delightful.  I highly recommend Carex garden tours.
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 6/09/2026(opens in a new tab)

				Price D.			

							Throughly curated to impress any gardener with smooth service, lots of information and lovely accommodations.   Gravity Manor was an exceptional treat. You may need to get on a waiting list because there are 20 spaces, .but it will be forth it.
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 6/05/2026(opens in a new tab)

				Morah A.			

							If you love gardens, this is the trip for you. Hang out with like minded people and visit the most incredible gardens you’ll ever experience.. Incredible accommodations. And well thought out itinerary. You’ll get to see the classics that everyone talks about, but also rare access to gardens that others don’t get to see. Our garden expert was so knowledgeable and helpful and kind. The Tours Manager checked on us and made sure we knew what to expect at every turn. I heard several people say it was the best tour they’ve ever been on. I think I have to agree."
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 6/04/2026(opens in a new tab)

				Susan R.			

							Best and most beautiful land tour I have ever taken. The green rolling hills and exquisite English gardens were a continuous delight to my eyes.
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 6/03/2026(opens in a new tab)

				Victoria D.			

							I had the most amazing with Carex tours. From the moment I first contacted Jacqueline about the trip the caring customer service and passion for what they do was apparent. The English garden tour included the most beautiful gardens and ended with a day at the famous Chelsea Flower Show. Our guides Chris and Kitty are so knowledgeable and I learned so much. Chris, Kitty and Michele all went out of their way to make sure we all had a fabulous experience. I highly recommend Carex tours and look forward to exploring other gardens with them in the future. Vicki DeFord
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 6/02/2026(opens in a new tab)

				jane b.			

							The guides (Chris and Kitty) were knowledgeable and outstanding. I especially enjoyed meal and gardens at Gravetye Manor. Group was fun to travel with, we were lucky with cool and cloudy weather.
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 5/30/2026(opens in a new tab)

				Eileen B.			

							Carex Tours had a hard task ahead to give me a successful trip. I  was looking for an experience that would inspire, calm and excite me with interesting, fun people. Carex met that challenge beautifully. Chris and Kitty are excellent guides- funny, knowledgeable, and gracious people. The group was a delight to be with and the gardens were awesome. The flow of the days  and dinners made this trip truly memorable. I would recommend Carex Tours to anyone wanted a true vacation amidst beautiful places.
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 5/29/2026(opens in a new tab)

				Amy M.			

							We are so glad we decided to go on the Carex 2025 Japan Garden Tour. It was an excellent immersion into Japanese history, culture and cuisine with a focus on Japanese gardens and design. In addition to touring incredible gardens, we also went to museums, temples and attended cultural activities.  The tour leaders were very knowledgeable and helpful.  Highly recommended for both the serious and casual garden enthusiast.
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 11/27/2025(opens in a new tab)

				Thomas G.			

							The garden tour to Normandy was great. Great, collegial group with a commonality of interest. Gardens were excellent and the visits to the Calvados distillery, St. Michel and Omaha Beach were welcome departures. We would be willing to pay a bit more for a bit higher level accommodations and cuisine. The accommodations at Caen, we felt, were a bit tired although the location was great. Tour guides, Chris and Rianne, were fantastic as was the driver. All in all, a great trip -- we'll look forward to future garden adventures with Carex.

Tom & Linda Gagnon
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 10/10/2025(opens in a new tab)

				Barbara C.			

							This was my first experience with a group tour and it exceeded any expectations I may have had! (Gardens of Normandy tour) Our guides were not only knowledgeable and helpful, they were also fun! The garden destinations were all amazing. In addition, there was time for us to visit a few historic sites along the way. I enjoyed the opportunity to roam the sites we visited at my own pace. Definitely no requirement to be with the guides or group at all times. The small group size (14) made it easy to get to know one’s fellow travelers and provided a more intimate & enjoyable experience. It was a wonderful trip and I would definitely travel with Carex again!
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 10/03/2025(opens in a new tab)

				Lea G.			

							What can you say about perfection?  The trip was planned and executed perfectly by two guides who handled every situation with a smile.  I've taken two to three specialty tours (mostly photography) a year over the past 11 years, so I've had experiences of all kinds.  The hotels were first class, along with the meals.    It's a tour that has you on your feet for many hours at a time, so be sure your shoes are comfy and supportive.
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 9/23/2025(opens in a new tab)

				Lisa S.			

							Six weeks later, I’m still reliving the wonderful experience of the Chelsea Flower Show and Great English Gardens tour. Carex planned for a fantastic experience and their boots on the ground (Kitty, Chris and Arndt) carried it out flawlessly to the benefit of all on the tour.

The garden choices were so varied- RHS, private, wild to serene, all stunning. They each transport you with their beauty. Fairlight End was just enchanting... I felt like I was in every English novel as the day was misty and foggy and just over the hill was the English Channel.

I learned and admired not only the garden designs and blooms, but also enjoyed the rich conversations in the gardens or on the bus, or with the gardeners and owners who invited us into their homes for tea and enthusiastically responded to our questions.

This experience really became so much more than garden tours. Truly enriching to the soul. Thank you.
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 8/04/2025(opens in a new tab)

				Margaret H.			

							It was the trip of a lifetime! I’ve been on many trips and this was one of THE best! Great itinerary!
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 7/04/2025(opens in a new tab)

				Dolly E.			

							This was my first garden tour and it was excellent, from the variety of gardens we visited, to the staff, accomodations, meals and especially the group! Will definitely sign up for another Carex garden tour.
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 7/04/2025(opens in a new tab)

				Janet D.			

							Wonderful June tour through some of the finest 'new style' gardens of England.
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 7/04/2025(opens in a new tab)

				James G.			

							We have enjoyed three Carex Tours-curated garden tours: Ireland, England and Normandy. All had expert guides, excellent accommodations and well-appointed coaches. In addition to the top-rated public gardens, Carex included exclusive access to some of the best private gardens in the area. We give Carex the highest recommendation to garden enthusiasts and look forward to future trips with them.
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 7/04/2025(opens in a new tab)

What is Carex Tours?

We are a garden travel company that organizes multi-day tours around the globe, taking you to the very best examples of each garden style a destination has to offer.

Learn More About Us

Our Tour Leaders

You could walk through a world-class garden and still miss the best parts. That's why on a Carex tour, you travel with an expert who adds the horticultural context and guides your eye to what's truly worth seeing.

Chris Walsh

Kim Woods Rabbidge

Ready to Become a Carexplorer? Sign Up For Our Newsletter!

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Follow Carex Tours On Instagram

@CAREXTOURS

carextours

1,596 Posts 89,417 Followers

Multi-day garden tours guided by horticultural experts.
Discover the world through its gardens. 🌼

Hi I’m Jacqueline 👋 Carex Tours Booking ...

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Hi I’m Jacqueline 👋 Carex Tours Booking Manager. For those of you I haven’t met yet, I’m the lucky one who answers your calls and emails about our trips. Which means I get to chat about gardens all day. The dream! 🌸

My favourite plants are the ones that earn their keep twice: lavender, rose, hibiscus, basil. Beautiful in the garden, brilliant in the kitchen.

Thank you to everyone who has submitted feedback about our website. I got to draw the very first winner of our giveaway… 🎉

Congratulations to Sharon, who traveled with us this year on the Chelsea Flower Show & Great English gardens trip! @obsessedwithcompost ☺️ ...

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Now this is a great garden for cactus ...

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Now this is a great garden for cactus lovers…🌵

The Jardin Exotique de Monaco is built into the cliffs high above Monaco, with views over the city and the Mediterranean. It took more than 20 years to construct!

It’s home to a huge collection of cacti and succulents from dry regions around the world, from Mexico and the Americas to southern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

A group of Carexplorers will be visiting here at the end of April next year, as part of our Gardens of the French Riviera & Monaco trip.

Do you grow any cacti or succulents? ...

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These photos were sent by Lea, an incredibly ...

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These photos were sent by Lea, an incredibly talented photographer, and guest on the Dutch Wave gardens trip.

The first thing that comes to mind is just WOW. The attention to detail! Every frame perfectly captures the textures and colors of these gardens. ✨

Thank you so much for sharing them with us, Lea. What a special gift to see the trip through your eyes. @lea.gallardo 📸

We’ve been lucky enough to have Lea travel with us twice. The first was last year, on our Normandy gardens trip. 💚 ...

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🌿 Take a peek at @jelle_grintjes incredible ...

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🌿 Take a peek at @jelle_grintjes incredible home garden — a beautiful 5,000 m² show garden that showcases his landscape design work and is a gorgeous place to be.

Our expert guide Chris, garden owner and host Jelle, and local guide Kitty. 🌸

On Day 6 of our Dutch Wave Gardens trip, Jelle gave our Carex crew a private tour around his garden, sharing his expertise with us. Here is him and the lovely Andy. This was Andy’s third trip with Carex 💚

It was a stunning day to explore 🌼

What a beautiful garden to walk through!

It’s so special travelling as a small group and having the opportunity to spend one-on-one time with the garden owner himself, hearing about his ideas, and inspiration behind the Dutch Wave style garden.

Thank you so much, @jelle_grintjes, for welcoming us into your garden and sharing it with us! ...

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A big thank you to the @vlinderhof community for ...

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A big thank you to the @vlinderhof community for giving our Carexplorers such a lovely visit and warm welcome on Day 5 of the Dutch Wave gardens trip!

We have so many beautiful photos to share, but for now, here’s a little peek at their visit to Vlinderhof.🌼 ...

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The joy is contagious when every garden is ...

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The joy is contagious when every garden is bursting with texture, movement, and great company. ☺️

Bouncing their way through the Dutch Wave gardens, the Carex crew sure knows how to have fun! 🥳 ...

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Into Day 4 of the Dutch Wave Gardens trip! ...

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Into Day 4 of the Dutch Wave Gardens trip! 🇳🇱

🌼 First stop was the Singer Museum @singerlaren in the charming town of Laren.

Our expert guide Chris Walsh talks us through the day’s highlights ✨

A fun fact from Chris: “sproeten” means freckles in Dutch 🧡 ...

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Day 3 with the Carex Crew 🌱
They explored ...

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Day 3 with the Carex Crew 🌱
They explored three private gardens as part of the Dutch Wave Gardens trip.

🌼 Hans Gieszen’s stunning space near Renswoude, channeling Piet Oudolf’s naturalistic Dutch style. @gieszen01

🍃Hubertushof, a beautiful garden designed and maintained by the owners. @vanheeswijktuinhubertushof

🪴 Marieke Nolsen’s private picking garden, a colorful corner of the Den Treek estate east of Utrecht. @mariekenolsen

Our expert guide, Chris Walsh, talks us through what makes each garden special and the highlights of the day.✨ ...

Multi-Day Garden Tours
Guided by Horticultural experts

Discover The World Through Its Gardens

Check Out Our Upcoming Garden Trips

Gardens of the French Riviera
& Monaco

Dublin &
the Gardens of Ireland

Dutch Wave
Gardens

Dutch Spring Bulbs

Chelsea
Flower Show & Great
English Gardens

Chelsea
Flower Show & East
Anglian Gardens

Chelsea
Flower Show & Great
English Gardens

New Zealand's
South Island in Full Bloom

Morocco’s
Most Exquisite Gardens

Why Choose Carex Tours

Tours led by garden experts

Access to private gardens

Intimate Groups

Meaningful encounters

Cream-of-the-crop design

What Our Carexplorers Are Saying About Us!

What is Carex Tours?

Our Tour Leaders

Ready to Become a Carexplorer? Sign Up For Our Newsletter!

Follow Carex Tours On Instagram

@CAREXTOURS

carextours

Have a question about one of our garden tours, or want to know more about us?

Multi-Day Garden Tours Guided by Horticultural experts

Discover The World Through Its Gardens

Check Out Our Upcoming Garden Trips

Gardens of the French Riviera & Monaco

Dublin & the Gardens of Ireland

Dutch Wave Gardens

Dutch Spring Bulbs

Chelsea Flower Show & Great English Gardens

Chelsea Flower Show & East Anglian Gardens

Chelsea Flower Show & Great English Gardens

New Zealand's South Island in Full Bloom

Morocco’s Most Exquisite Gardens

Why Choose Carex Tours

Tours led by garden experts

Access to private gardens

Intimate Groups

Meaningful encounters

Cream-of-the-crop design

What Our Carexplorers Are Saying About Us!

What is Carex Tours?

Our Tour Leaders

Ready to Become a Carexplorer? Sign Up For Our Newsletter!

Follow Carex Tours On Instagram

@CAREXTOURS

carextours

Have a question about one of our garden tours, or want to know more about us?

Multi-Day Garden Tours
Guided by Horticultural experts

Gardens of the French Riviera
& Monaco

Dublin &
the Gardens of Ireland

Dutch Wave
Gardens

Chelsea
Flower Show & Great
English Gardens

Chelsea
Flower Show & East
Anglian Gardens

Chelsea
Flower Show & Great
English Gardens

New Zealand's
South Island in Full Bloom

Morocco’s
Most Exquisite Gardens