Join Berkshire Botanical Garden and Classical Excursions as we discover the gardens of the Netherlands. Since the Age
of Discovery in the 15th Century, the Dutch have explored the world. Their ships reached the Americas, South Africa,
and to Australia. This incredible expansion of empire led to the founding of the Dutch East India Co. in 1602 and the
Dutch West India Co. in 1621. These titans of trade introduced hundreds of species to the shores of the Netherlands
after their journeys. Only a few years later, in 1638, Hortus Botanicas was constructed in the heart of Amsterdam,
featuring botanical treasurers brought back by these explorers and traders. Hortus Botanicus is one of the oldest
Botanical Gardens in Europe and one of the many sites we will enjoy on our journey. Classical gardens on grand estates
and intimate lush city gardens are a staple of the Dutch landscape. In the 1980s, a new style emerged that would change
the face of gardening across the Netherlands and around the world. The Dutch New Wave Garden movement promoted
a naturalistic approach to planting design embraced and emulated worldwide. Piet Ouldolf, the movement’s most
prominent designer, has described his process this way, “My biggest inspiration is nature. I do not want to copy it but to
recreate the emotion.” Traveling through the Netherlands, we will immerse ourselves in the gardens of Ouldolf and his
contemporaries. As a group, we will find ourselves exploring the intersection of these classical and modern approaches
to garden design. Our travels will take us from historic gardens to castles, charming towns, and exciting contemporary
spaces. We hope you join us as we explore the great gardens of the Netherlands. For more information visit www.berkshirebotanical.org or contact Lani Summerville at 413-446-8728