This Little Known Natural Oasis Is Hiding In Maine…And You’re Going To Love It
×
Michelle
Author
Maine’s beaches are certainly no secret. Neither are the forests and many waterfalls that make our state a true oasis. But, there are a number of other small gems that are secreted away. These spots, a bit off the well-tread tourist path, are just as worth visiting as the lighthouses, state parks and hiking trails that see thousands of visitors a year. Start your lesser-known gems tour with The Asticou Azalea Garden in Northeast Harbor.
In 1956, Northeast Harbor resident, Charles K. Savage took his love of plants, flowers and gardens and created one of Maine's most beautiful and serene spots.
This inspiration came when Beatrix Farrand made the decision to to dismantle her Reef Point estate in Bar Harbor. Knowing that her gorgeous fauna needed to find a new home, she worked with John D. Rockefeller Jr. for the financial support necessary to create Asticou using Farrand's plants and flowers.
Savage studied Japanese garden design and Asticou Azalea Garden is modeled after a Japanese stroll garden. Visitors will enjoy the paths that wind meticulously throughout each individual and unique garden.
Savage studied Japanese garden design and Asticou Azalea Garden is modeled after a Japanese stroll garden. Visitors will enjoy the paths that wind meticulously throughout each individual and unique garden.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Savage's study of Japanese design has also meant the careful inclusion of a zen garden with rocks and sand. The careful raking of the garden is meant to evoke imagery of islands and flowing water.
The Asticou Azalea Garden's design is focused on the careful balance between natural and man-made beauty. A walk along the circuitous circular path will take visitors through picturesque garden rooms - some with stone benches to sit and simply enjoy the surrounding beauty.
Related Stories
Most People Have No Idea There's A Fairy Garden Hiding In Maine And It's Magical
The Secret Garden In Maine You’re Guaranteed To Love
The Magical Secret Garden In Maine You'll Want To Visit At Least Once
Advertisement
Despite being planned and man-made, the garden has become its own natural oasis. Birds and flowers, along with butterflies and native wildlife can be seen throughout the area.
From sunny, open spaces to lush green forest areas, Asticou Azalea Garden is a true zen spot.
Advertisement
The Asticou Azalea Garden is open during daylight hours from May 1st through October 31st. To enhance your visit, head over to the accompanying Thuya Gardens nearby. Thuya, also built by Savage, features semi-formal English border beds and indigenous eastern Maine woodlands. The garden is located on a granite hillside overlooking Northeast Harbor.
For more information and directions for both gardens click here.
Have you been here before? What did you think?
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.