Around the World in 80 Gardens ep 1, a BBC series featuring the charismatic broadcaster Monty Don, takes viewers on a journey across the globe in search of extraordinary gardens. With his warm, thoughtful narration, Monty invites us to explore a diverse array of horticultural marvels—from the historical to the contemporary, from sprawling estates to intimate, hidden gems. The show not only celebrates the visual splendor of these spaces but also tells the stories of the people, cultures, and histories that shaped them.
The journey begins with a simple premise: Monty will visit exactly eighty gardens. But these aren’t just any gardens; they are some of the most breathtaking, world-class creations you can imagine, carefully chosen from every corner of the planet. From the majestic Alhambra in Spain to the lush and tranquil gardens surrounding the Taj Mahal in India, each location offers a glimpse into the ways nature, art, and history intersect.
As Monty embarks on his ten journeys, he takes us beyond the mere beauty of these places. He digs into the cultural significance of each garden, showing how they reflect the values, beliefs, and even the struggles of the people who built them. For example, in Mexico, Monty visits the ancient water gardens of Mexico City. These gardens, with their intricate network of canals and floating islands, are a testament to the ingenuity of the Aztecs, who found a way to cultivate crops in a harsh environment. But Monty also shows us another side of Mexico’s garden culture: deep in the rainforest, he discovers a surrealist fantasy garden, an otherworldly place where art and nature blend seamlessly into one.
This episode also takes us to Cuba, a country undergoing its own green revolution. In the crumbling heart of Havana, Monty finds a flourishing urban garden movement. Amid the remnants of colonial grandeur, local gardeners have transformed neglected spaces into vibrant, productive oases. It’s a reminder that even in times of adversity, nature can thrive with a little human care and creativity.
Monty’s travels are not just about admiring these gardens from a distance. He engages with the people who maintain them, listens to their stories, and learns about their challenges. These interactions add a layer of depth to the show, making it more than just a visual treat. We get to see how these gardens impact the lives of those who tend to them—sometimes providing a peaceful retreat, other times a vital source of food or income.
One of the most striking aspects of Around the World in 80 Gardens is the way it shows the sheer diversity of gardening traditions across the globe. In Italy, Monty visits the Villa D’Este, where Renaissance-era fountains and terraces showcase the grandeur of Italian garden design. The intricate water features and carefully pruned hedges evoke a sense of order and control, reflecting the Renaissance belief in man’s ability to tame nature. But just a short flight away, in Thailand, Monty encounters a completely different approach to gardening. Here, the gardens are less about control and more about harmony. The lush, tropical landscapes blend seamlessly with the natural environment, creating spaces that feel like an extension of the jungle itself.
Around the World in 80 Gardens ep 1
As Monty moves from continent to continent, we are reminded that gardens are not just places of beauty—they are also a reflection of the cultures that create them. In Bali, for instance, the gardens are deeply spiritual, with carefully placed statues and sacred pools designed to honor the gods. Meanwhile, in New Zealand, the gardens reflect the country’s strong connection to the land, with native plants and sustainable practices taking center stage.
What makes this series so captivating is Monty’s genuine love for gardens and his ability to share that passion with viewers. His excitement is contagious, and you can’t help but feel a sense of wonder as he walks through these magnificent spaces. Whether he’s marveling at a delicate flower or admiring the ingenuity of an ancient irrigation system, Monty brings a sense of curiosity and reverence to every location he visits.
Throughout the episode, there’s a sense that gardens are not just static displays—they are living, breathing entities that evolve over time. This idea is particularly evident in the royal and botanic gardens featured in the series. These grand spaces, often hundreds of years old, are constantly being reshaped by nature and human hands. Monty explores the tension between tradition and innovation in these gardens, showing how modern gardeners are finding ways to preserve their heritage while adapting to contemporary challenges like climate change.
As the episode draws to a close, viewers are left with a deeper appreciation for the artistry, effort, and love that goes into creating and maintaining these green spaces. Monty Don’s journey is not just a tour of the world’s most beautiful gardens—it’s a celebration of the human spirit, of our enduring desire to create beauty, find solace, and connect with the natural world.
In just one episode, Around the World in 80 Gardens manages to transport us to places we may never visit, while reminding us of the universal power of gardens to inspire, soothe, and sustain. Whether you’re an avid gardener or someone who simply enjoys the occasional stroll through a park, this series offers something for everyone: a chance to see the world through Monty Don’s eyes and discover the magic of gardens in all their diverse forms.
Conclusion Around the World in 80 Gardens ep 1
As we reach the end of Monty Don’s first episode of Around the World in 80 Gardens, it’s clear that this series is far more than just a visual showcase of global horticulture. It’s a journey that opens our eyes to the deeper meaning behind these green spaces—a reflection of history, culture, and the human spirit. Through Monty’s eyes, we see how gardens are not just carefully designed landscapes, but vibrant expressions of the communities that nurture them.
From the towering arches of the Alhambra to the quiet sanctuaries of Cuba’s urban gardens, Monty reveals how each garden carries with it the legacy of those who created and maintain it. Every pathway, every flowerbed, and every water feature tells a story, sometimes of centuries past, sometimes of the here and now. These gardens are not just ornamental; they are living testaments to creativity, resilience, and the universal desire to connect with nature.
What truly makes this journey unforgettable is Monty’s genuine connection with these spaces. His passion for gardens is contagious, inviting us to see the world through a new lens—one that recognizes the beauty of both grand palaces and modest oases. In each location, whether in Mexico or Thailand, we are reminded that gardens are reflections of their environment, shaped by geography, tradition, and even personal dreams.
Monty’s interactions with local gardeners add another layer of richness to the show. They remind us that behind every grand design is a story of dedication, care, and often, hardship. These stories breathe life into the gardens, making them not just places of beauty, but symbols of human perseverance and joy.
In the end, Around the World in 80 Gardens leaves us with a profound sense of wonder and appreciation for the world’s gardens. These are places where nature and human imagination intertwine, creating spaces that heal, inspire, and offer sanctuary. Whether grand or humble, these gardens invite us all to pause, reflect, and embrace the timeless bond between people and the earth beneath their feet. Monty Don’s journey reminds us that gardens, in their many forms, are universal—and that they hold the power to bring us together, one petal, one stone, one garden at a time.
FAQ Around the World in 80 Gardens ep 1
Q: What is Around the World in 80 Gardens about?
A: Around the World in 80 Gardens is a BBC series hosted by Monty Don, where he travels across the globe to explore 80 of the world’s most beautiful and culturally significant gardens. The show not only highlights their visual beauty but delves into the stories and histories behind them.
Q: What types of gardens does Monty Don visit in episode 1?
A: In episode 1, Monty Don visits a range of gardens, from the historic Alhambra in Spain to the serene gardens surrounding the Taj Mahal. He also explores more unusual places, like the surrealist garden hidden in Mexico’s rainforest and urban gardens in Cuba.
Q: What is the main theme of Around the World in 80 Gardens episode 1?
A: The central theme of episode 1 is how gardens reflect the cultures, histories, and personal stories of the people who create and maintain them. Monty Don showcases how gardens serve as places of beauty, creativity, and resilience across different regions of the world.
Q: How does Monty Don engage with the gardens he visits?
A: Monty Don doesn’t just admire the gardens from afar; he interacts with the people who care for them, listens to their challenges, and learns how these green spaces impact their lives. His genuine curiosity brings depth to each garden he visits.
Q: Why should I watch Around the World in 80 Gardens?
A: If you’re passionate about gardens, history, or different cultures, this series is a must-watch. Monty Don’s warm storytelling and the breathtaking variety of gardens offer an engaging look at the beauty and significance of these spaces across the globe.