Dhu Varren Garden

The benign climate of South-West Ireland, warmed by the gulf stream, was both the attraction and opportunity that brought us to Co. Kerry in 2000. 

Mark had always wanted to create a botanical garden that illustrated the diversity of the plant kingdom.  We finally settled upon a 2½ acre site outside the village of Milltown, with views of the McGillicuddy Reeks.  The site contained an old farmhouse with the remnants of an old farmyard complete with haybarn, concrete yards and block walls.  In addition the land was boggy and compacted by livestock.  None of these could be considered obvious attractions, but in its favour were plenty of mature trees, a South-facing aspect, fertile ground and potential! 

Work on the garden did not begin in earnest until 2002.  There was no preconceived master plan, but rather the garden has developed in sections with hard landscaping and ground preparation based on the requirements of the plants.  In addition, a koi pond with bridge and tea house were also constructed. 

The garden now contains a vast diversity of plants from around the world.  These include the cacti of South America to the tree ferns of Australasia.  In addition trees, shrubs, bamboos, succulents, palms, water plants and other rare and special plants now inhabit the garden.  Many of the species push the boundaries of cultivation at our latitude. 

Dhu Varren Garden will continue to be developed for years to come and we hope you will enjoy the garden as much as we are enjoying creating it!