Discover The Tropical Magic of Montreal Gardens In Saint Vincent

Places like Montreal Gardens in Saint Vincent & The Grenadines are meant to be inhaled slowly… deeply. At least, that’s what Timothy Vaughn, the Welsh-born owner and developer of the property, believes. Vaughn, a landscaper by profession, fell in love with the property in 1996, back when he says there was “virtually nothing there.” And it's easy to see why he was bowled over by the gardens—78% of visitors to St. Vincent and the Grenadines rate Montreal Gardens as one of the top things to do in Saint Vincent.

While the lush greenery was always present, before Vaughn came along, the garden was mostly a fruit plantation with grapefruit, orange, and tangerine trees. His vision added strategic enhancements to the existing landscape, transforming it into the vibrant garden it is today. The former owner, Douglas Brisbane, also contributed with plantings that included mango trees, nutmeg, and even experimental cocoa cultivation.

Today, Montreal Gardens in Saint Vincent has become one of the standout natural attractions on the island. Wild, and with a jungle feel, it’s one of those places that can effortlessly transition a person into a realm of peace. Ahead of a visit to Montreal Gardens, take a moment to learn more about this unique attraction, its ecological significance, historical background, and how it fits into the bigger picture of exploring Saint Vincent’s natural and historical wonders.

About Saint Vincent

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines includes the main island of Saint Vincent and the captivating Grenadines chain of islands. The descriptions of just how blue and warm the ocean is in this territory hardly capture its essence. That is, until you venture to this Eastern Caribbean destination for yourself. Only then does this reality fully sink in.

For SVG, the exotic island allure starts but isn’t limited to the enticing beaches of golden and black sands. Then there’s the dramatic volcanic scenery and historical sites like Fort Charlotte near Kingstown, the capital. There’s more to see, too, including rainforest settings so lush and magical, they’ll probably feel surreal. This includes Montreal Gardens, the Botanical Gardens, Dark View Falls, and a host of other popular attractions on this island.

As for The Grenadines, these magnificent islands and cays are known for their world-class diving, rich coral reefs, and tranquil, scenic beaches. Whether you decide to visit for just a day or two, or stay for a week or more, there’s plenty to do in this popular Caribbean destination to keep you entertained!

Insider Tip: Stay at one of Saint Vincent's all-inclusive resorts for exceptional value with your island escape. Sandals Saint Vincent offers 11 restaurants, lively entertainment and plenty of activities available on-site!

Introduction to Montreal Gardens

The beauty of Montreal Gardens speaks for itself. Time might seem to slow down as you explore this serene 7.5-acre space where nature is left to thrive. This natural attraction is in the hills of Saint Vincent, at an elevation of 1,476 feet above sea level, providing a cool and refreshing climate. Here you’ll find a range of themed gardens including the Formal Garden, Color Garden, and Rainforest Garden. Montreal Gardens is best explored with a guide.

Location and Accessibility

Montreal Gardens is on the eastern side of Saint Vincent, in the Mesopotamia Valley. Depending on where you’re driving from, it can take some time to get there. For instance, it can take around 45 minutes to drive to Montreal Gardens from Kingstown, the capital. There are several different ways to get to Montreal Gardens in Saint Vincent, including via taxi, car rental or with a tour.

The drive to Montreal Gardens is scenic and offers a taste of the natural beauty Saint Vincent is known for. Along the way, you’ll venture through rustic farmland where cows and goats graze among stretches of greenery. As you approach the garden, the landscape becomes even more vibrant, with banana trees wrapped in protective blue plastic and coconut trees swaying gently. As you near the gardens, anticipation builds, and the burst of colorful flowers near the entrance offers the first hint of the rich variety of flora that awaits within the rainforest garden.

Good to know: With Island Routes, the Montreal Gardens Experience takes visitors on a four-hour tour that includes exploring the country's Botanical Gardens. This excursion also includes a scenic drive through Kingstown before arriving to Montreal Gardens.

Entry Points and Parking

Once you get to Montreal Gardens, you’ll know right away as clusters of flowers come into view. There’s a parking area out front that’s just steps from the Formal Garden. Most vehicles (taxis included) park near the entrance, and it’s easy to make your way to the gardens from there. Keep in mind that the drop-off location also serves as the meeting point once the tour is over.

Good to know: Some tours to Montreal Gardens come with direct resort pickups, including most tours booked through Sandals Saint Vincent.

Local culture and history

Montreal Gardens was discovered by a man with big dreams: Mr. Douglas Brisbane. Over the years, Brisbane managed several local businesses on the island of Saint Vincent and devoted his remaining time to the garden—planting, exploring, and finding peace there.

In 1996, Timothy Vaughn, a landscaper, fell in love with the land and purchased the property from the older Brisbane. In 2013, Brisbane and Vaughn were interviewed on Saint Vincent’s Island Tourism in Action Series. Brisbane expressed his amazement at the additions Vaughn had made, calling them “out of this world”. When prodded, he humbly acknowledged his role in the garden’s origins, grateful for Vaughn’s contributions.

Many Vincentians describe Brisbane as a kind man. If fact, a couple even recall being given little jobs in his garden in their childhood. Brisbane himself fondly remembers young people spending Sabbath days at Montreal Gardens, which he called “God’s Country.”

“Every day we had people come visit, especially on Saturdays,” he shared.

Photo credit: Otorongo/Shutterstock.com

When asked by the Island Tourism in Action host if he'd ever envisioned what the garden would become, Brisbane replied, “Maybe not, but this is God’s Country. Up here, this is where God is, and He definitely has a hand in doing these things. He helps those who want to imagine and do things for themselves.”

He added, “I thought it was fantastic what I did, but this is beyond my dreams.”

Both Brisbane and Vaughn interacted with and experimented within the garden in their own ways. Brisbane attempted to grow cocoa, and Vaughn tried to create a lily pond. When a storm disrupted progress, Vaughn quickly abandoned the pond, and in its place, a pebble garden emerged, filled with thriving begonias, variegated privet, and coleus.

Vaughn made other changes as well. He carefully planned what would go where, something many visitors admire today, especially the decorative arrangement of tree ferns. Early on, he decided to replace some begonias with impatiens, which required less maintenance, and focused on creating a unique outlook for the entire space.

The extensive efforts to transform the rainforest garden into a spectacular natural attraction have paid off, although not financially. The gardens merge with the surrounding mountain and ocean views in a way that brings peace to many hearts. Though Vaughn admits today that it may not have been financially worthwhile, he finds immense personal satisfaction in the initiative, saying, “That’s what counts.”

The Views

The views at Montreal Gardens are what island vacations are made of—serene, all-embracing, and utterly captivating. Within the garden, there are numerous scenic spots perfect for photography, including wedding shoots, especially on drier days. When the mountains clear and the clouds lift, you can see nearby waterfalls cascading from the heights, with a large one flowing down the center of the mountains. Montreal Gardens is home to a variety of plants, from vibrant heliconias and bright impatiens to canna, shrimp flower, African turnips, and more. The turnips stand out, flowering year-round, making them particularly unique.

The best way to take in the views at Montreal Gardens is to go as part of a leisurely tour, or on your own. It’s well worth it to have the extra time just to stroll around and let the serene ambiance of this attraction sink in. Oh, and while exploring, don’t forget to look up – the canopy is where the magic happens!

Expert Tip: For breathtaking views and a dose of island inspiration ahead of your Montreal Gardens tour, check out these amazing photos of Saint Vincent—perfect for planning your next adventure!

Guided Tours

There is value in visiting natural attractions like Montreal Gardens as part of a guided tour. While going on your own can be somewhat liberating, the conveniences of going on a tour, particularly one that includes transportation, cannot be overlooked. Guided tours equate to more local insights, which can be useful. Plus, the local guides are usually entertaining and engaging. If you book your tour through Sandals Resorts, resort pick up and drop off afterwards is usually included.

Among the benefits of going to Montreal Gardens as part of a tour is that the guides can provide insight into the distinct plant species and the ecological importance of the gardens. With guided tours, you’ll also get to take in the breathtaking views of surrounding banana plantations and rainforests which can add a deeper level of island immersion to your tour.

Themed Gardens

Montreal Gardens is one of the rare places where you can truly hear the sounds of silence. Here, background noises fade away, leaving only the rustling wind, the songs of birds, and occasionally, the distant calls of parrots in the hills. While the parrots don’t typically venture into the gardens, both past and present owners recall spotting them flying over the mountains in the distance. Although you’re unlikely to see parrots up close during your visit to Montreal Gardens, you’ll be able to explore the varied themed gardens, each reflecting different aspects of Saint Vincent's rich botanical heritage.

Formal Garden

There’s a noticeable contrast between the different gardens within Montreal Gardens, and that’s intentional. The current owner observed the topography and how the landscape is distinct from top to bottom. He was also inspired by the work of the previous owner, Douglas Brisbane, who had established the Anthurium beds, fruit trees, and other features. He built on Douglas’s original vision to create something special.

In the Formal Garden at Montreal Gardens, you’ll find a gentle sense of order and elegance. While still embracing the natural essence of the rainforest, this area has a touch more structure, with neatly arranged flower beds and carefully pruned shrubs. The pathways wind through colorful blooms, allowing the tropical vibe of the Caribbean to shine through. What makes the Formal Garden unique is its balance of symmetry and natural beauty, offering a tranquil spot to soak in the island’s lush surroundings.

Color Garden

Take a cool walk through The Color Garden at Montreal Gardens. This garden might as well be a symphony of love. Scope the tree ferns which provide shade and a decorative element, and the vivid hues and a diverse array of flowers. When you get here, you might just want to settle in for a while as you take in the bold reds, deep purples, sunny yellows, and soft pinks blending in an intentionally striking way. This energetic garden features different flowers blooming throughout the year, and it really is a celebration of nature’s ability to inspire joy.

Rainforest Garden

The Rainforest Garden is the heart of Montreal Gardens, where nature flourishes freely. Here, you just might find yourself marveling at the towering trees and dense foliage, which, in their simplicity, offer an authentic feel of the island. The air is cool and damp, filled with the sounds of rustling leaves, chirping birds, and the distant rush of a hidden stream. As you wander through winding paths, you’ll encounter a variety of tropical plants, ferns, and orchids that thrive in the shaded, humid environment. The Rainforest Garden experience is immersive and a must-see if you visit Montreal Gardens while in Saint Vincent.

Tour Schedules

It’s possible to book both half-day and full-day tours to Montreal Gardens. For full-day tours, you’ll often need to leave your resort early, sometimes as early as 9 a.m. One of the popular options is the Montreal & Botanical Gardens Experience offered by Island Routes. This combination tour, priced from USD $90 per person, includes a visit to the Botanical Gardens, the oldest botanical garden in the Western Hemisphere. Within either of these gardens, you might spot the St. Vincent Parrot (Amazona guildingii), the national bird of Saint Vincent. This tour lasts around 4.5 hours, excluding transfer times.

While there are other ways to get to Montreal Gardens besides joining a tour, the advantages of a guided tour are compelling. For one, you won’t have to worry about setting up your own transportation. You can leave the logistics and navigation to the drivers and guides. All you’ll need to do is relax and soak in the views.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to go to Montreal Gardens is during the dry season, when there’s usually less rain. For Saint Vincent, this coincides with peak season, from December to April. During the dry season, the island of Saint Vincent typically sees more sunny days, brightening the surroundings. The weather tends to be more predictable during the dry season as well, so it's generally one of the best times to go to Saint Vincent.

Even with that said, it's important to note that a typical day at Montreal Gardens in Saint Vincent is often windy and wet, which is fantastic for the plants. This isn't always the case, but this type of weather undoubtedly adds to the garden’s verdant and rich atmosphere. So generally, while it's best to visit during peak season, it can be interesting to visit Montreal Gardens at other times of year as well.

Know Before You Go

Before you visit Montreal Gardens, there are a few things to keep in mind. Knowing what to expect can help you fully enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the gardens and make the most of your experience.

• The gardens have several steps, which may make them challenging for visitors with mobility issues.

• As a rainforest garden, the natural, slightly wild appearance adds to the charm of the gardens and suits the environment perfectly.

• Meandering paths lead you through the gardens, with exotic plants around every corner.

• Visiting on your own or with a personal guide allows you to explore at your own pace without feeling rushed.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.

• Morning visits offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making for a more pleasant experience.

Photo credit: Pascale Gueret/Shutterstock.com

Ecological and Cultural Significance

One thing's for sure, Montreal Gardens in Saint Vincent demonstrates the beauty of simplicity. As you take in the colorful scenery—not just within the gardens, but all along the scenic route to get there—you might feel like you’ve stepped into another world. Here, the focus is on discovering the unique plant and flower varieties and appreciating just how different they all are.

On the ecological side, Montreal Gardens plays an important role in keeping Saint Vincent’s biodiversity intact. The garden thrives in rich volcanic soil, making it a haven for native and exotic plants that are crucial to the island’s ecosystem. The diverse plant life supports local wildlife, creating a natural habitat for birds, insects, and other creatures that help maintain the environment. This garden isn’t just about beautiful plants; it’s also a key part of keeping the island’s natural balance in check.

Culturally, Montreal Gardens is a big deal for Saint Vincent. It’s a living showcase of the island’s botanical heritage. Here, the major highlight is the vast variety of plants that have many different uses locally. These plants and trees have been carefully cultivated and preserved over the years. The history here is deeply tied to the island’s identity, with both past and present owners contributing to its growth. Visiting Montreal Gardens gives you a chance to connect with the island’s natural and cultural roots, making it a must-see spot when you’re in Saint Vincent.

Good to know: When it comes to conservation and sustainability, the staff at Montreal Gardens truly walk the walk. They can share the efforts that go into maintaining the gardens during your visit. Although you may not see them immediately due to the lush plants and trees, there’s almost always someone nearby!

Environmental Protection

With natural attractions like Montreal Gardens, protection and preservation of the environment are crucial. Both locals and visitors play an essential role in helping to maintain the natural beauty of this space. To do your part, it’s important to follow a few key guidelines:

• Stay on designated paths – Sticking to the designated paths helps minimize the impact on the garden’s delicate ecosystems. Montreal Gardens has well-marked trails to ensure you can enjoy the scenery while protecting the plants and wildlife.

• Don’t pick the flowers or plants – As tempting as it might be to take a piece of the garden home with you, it’s important to leave the flowers and plants undisturbed. Picking them can harm the garden’s natural balance and spoil the experience for future visitors.

• Carry out your trash – Help keep Montreal Gardens clean and beautiful by ensuring you carry out any trash you bring in. Use reusable containers or bags to minimize waste, and dispose of any litter responsibly.

By following these guidelines, you’re contributing to the conservation efforts that keep Montreal Gardens a thriving sanctuary for plants, wildlife, and visitors alike.

Insider Tip: Guests of Sandals Saint Vincent have quick and easy access to local attractions like Montreal Gardens, beaches, and historical sites, making the resort a wonderful base for exploration.

Learnings Recap

There are lots of wonderful things to do in Saint Vincent, including exploring Montreal Gardens. This attraction is a treasure trove of natural beauty and horticultural wonders, offering visitors a chance to get up close to the lush, vibrant landscapes of Saint Vincent. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or simply someone with a heart for anything nature-oriented, there’s plenty to discover. Here’s a summary of what you can expect at Montreal Gardens:

• Montreal Gardens is a rainforest garden in the heart of Saint Vincent, known for its diverse plant life and stunning scenery.

• Located in the fertile Mesopotamia Valley, the gardens are easily accessible by car or taxi, making it a convenient stop for nature lovers.

• The gardens are divided into several distinct sections, including the Formal Garden, Color Garden, and Rainforest Garden, each offering a unique experience.

• Visitors can explore a wide variety of tropical plants, flowers, and trees, many of which are native to the Caribbean.

• Guided tours are available, providing valuable insights into the plant species and the history of the gardens, enhancing your visit with educational elements.

• The best time to visit Montreal Gardens is during the dry season (December to April), when the weather is more predictable, and the garden’s colors are at their most vibrant.

• Conservation and environmental protection are priorities at Montreal Gardens, with efforts in place to preserve its natural beauty for future generations.

• Sandals Resorts offer all-inclusive vacation packages that can be paired with a visit to Montreal Gardens, ensuring a relaxed and enriching experience.

Best of Montreal Gardens

The beauty of Montreal Gardens is undeniable, with many paths inviting exploration. The right one is probably the most fragrant, or perhaps the most colorful—certainly, it’s the path lined with the most heliconias. This rainforest garden can have a different look and feel depending on the time you visit, so planning the right time to go and choosing the right guided tour are essential to take it all in.

Before heading to Montreal Gardens, you’ll need to decide where to stay. All-inclusive resorts can be a great option for an adventure-filled Saint Vincent vacation, offering convenience, a range of amenities, and the freedom to explore without worrying about the details. At Sandals Saint Vincent, your adventure begins the moment you arrive, with island exploration just an impulse away!

Insider Tip: If you stay at Sandals Saint Vincent for your island getaway, all your meals, drinks, and activities are included in your booking price, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy the island without worrying about additional costs.