There is no need to travel as far as England to see a genuine English-style garden in Italy. Liguria has one overlooking the sea, with blooms that have few rivals in the country. On the hillside above Alassio, the Gardens of Villa della Pergola combine Mediterranean views with exceptional botanical collections, including iconic wisteria and a record-breaking collection of agapanthus.
A visit does require some planning, though: entry is limited, rules are clearly set out, and the peak flowering seasons matter.
An English-style garden above Alassio
Climbing the slope above Alassio at Via Privata Montagu 9, the park retains its historic layout and Liguria’s characteristic terraced structure, brought to the fore through landscaping restoration by architect Paolo Pejrone. Its design follows the style of an English garden, rare in Italy: apparently natural, though carefully planned around sightlines and openings towards the gulf.
Alongside Mediterranean vegetation, including umbrella pines, olive trees, almond trees, holm oaks and cypresses, sit species brought in from further afield, such as eucalyptus, jacarandas, araucarias, large strelitzias and tree ferns.
Iconic blooms and collections
In spring, clouds of hydrangeas, cascades of bougainvillaea and thunbergia, and fragrant patches of jasmine, spiraea and solanum create a scene that shifts as the weeks pass. The change of season brings new colours and shapes, heightened by the sea view.
Wisteria: the signature collection
The wisteria collection is considered the most important in Italy. In spring, it turns parts of the garden into corridors of hanging blossoms, in shades running from white to deep lilac. Themed guided tours help visitors identify the varieties and training methods used across pergolas, walls and iron supports.
Agapanthus: a European record
In summer, the agapanthus collection comes into flower. It is described as the largest in Europe in terms of the number and variety of plants. The flowerbeds become a mosaic of blue, lilac and white, set against green leaves and the blue sea beyond.
During the peak blooming months, dedicated events such as the Agapanthus Experience are held, alongside masterclasses and visits focused on botanical and cultivation aspects.
Citrus trees and other rarities
The garden also includes a notable citrus collection, with lemons, oranges and less common cultivars, as well as a range of rare species from different climates. Often shaped into unusual forms or grown in large pots, the citrus trees release a gentle scent during the milder hours of the day.
When to visit: the best periods
The most suitable time depends on what is in bloom.
- Spring is the key season for wisteria and the first major flowering displays, while early summer coincides with the peak of the agapanthus.
- Later months bring the citrus trees and summer blooms into focus.
Opening times change according to the season and flowering stages, so it is worth checking the latest calendar before booking.
Visiting arrangements: tickets, opening times and entry rules
Entry to the Gardens is only possible as part of an approximately 80-minute guided tour, helping to keep visits orderly and protect the collections. Tickets are sold solely through the official online ticket office, and booking ahead is advisable during busier periods.
Private tours and visits for organised groups, schools, workshops and masterclasses can be requested by contacting the venue directly.
Animals of any size are not permitted, in order to protect rare plants and local wildlife.
Getting there and getting around Alassio
Villa della Pergola sits on the hillside above Alassio, in the province of Savona, in a residential area above the town centre and seafront. There is no on-site visitor parking. Those arriving by car need to use the town’s public car parks, including the area near the railway station, the Piazza Partigiani car park and the Don Bosco car park.
It is possible to continue on foot from the centre, bearing the uphill route in mind, or use the local taxi service. Alassio is served by the Ligurian coastal railway line, and the Gardens can be reached from the station by taxi or via a more demanding but scenic walk.
Article featured on The Wom Travel: In Liguria c’è un giardino incantato a picco sul mare che ospita la fioritura più spettacolare d’Italia
