Leave your winter blue’s at home and step inside the magical winter wonderland created at Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens–where a half-million illuminated lights will leave you enchanted within the small town of Belmont, North Carolina.
At the entrance of the garden stood an incredible gawk-worthy Fraser Fir brought in from Boone, NC–rising up 30 feet and filled with over 300 orchids. Said to be one of the largest cut Christmas trees on display in the state, this breathtaking exhibit had our camera’s clicking as we circled the tree, staring in awe, trying to appreciate all of the different types of orchids.
If winter is not your thing, Daniel Stowe has you covered. The Orchid Conservatory, a modern glasshouse, is devoted to specimens of trees, plants, orchids and a surprising overflow of tropical plants. Snap a selfie under the dreamlike tillandsia trellises or tune in to the organic rhythms of the orchid waterfall, just beyond the succulent garden. I have never seen anything quite like it. The charming arranged flower beds, trellises, fountains and brick paths will take you into another world for a while. Visitors can also enjoy a warm fire pit, three beautiful fountains, nature trails and pathways covered by trees. A wonderful garden to visit–the grounds are gorgeous and one could easily spend and entire day relaxing and exploring everything this luscious garden has to offer.
So if you're heading north the next winter, slow down and stop by Daniele Stowe to savor some much needed out-door therapy during the busy holiday season. You will definitely leave feeling refreshed, replenished, and ready to take on any family festivity.
-Barbara