Fling 2014: Portland Japanese Garden

After a break from Fling posts, it felt like a good time to come back to our fabulous trip to Portland. Its hard to believe it that its almost two months since our trip. Looking back through the photos brings everything back to life again. The garden is coming up to its 50th anniversary, having opened in 1967 on the former site of a zoo. When we arrived Mark and I, along with Gerhard took off in a slightly different direction to many of our fellow bloggers, which possibly allowed us a less hectic visit. As a garden I could have spent most of a day here, I really enjoyed the space, the tranquillity and verdant backdrop.



The garden is surrounded by mature trees woodland, which tapers nicely into the garden. I'm sure this feeling is intentional but its very well done.
Although we set off in a different direction to many of our fellow flingers, the garden was far from empty. We spent quite a long time waiting to take the photo below of the bridge. Every time it looked like we may get a shot, some more visitors decided to admire the view! Get away people!!!


I suspect that most Japanese gardens will have a quote from a Japanese VIP that its theirs is the best Japanese garden outside of Japan, whether it's the best I haven't visited enough gardens - or for that matter any gardens in Japan itself. However I the praise is certainly justified.
This fencing idea may well find its way into our top patio make-over for next year...


Acers, trained and clipped to perfection. We were told that it can take years before gardeners are trusted to train their own acer, although I'm sure the head gardener will keep a close eye on trainees!







As we were getting ready to leave the view down to the city below was well worth a delay before heading back to the coach.

Hopefully we will get the chance to return to this garden again!
Gaz