It was July 29th, 2023. There were few clouds in the sky. The sun was scorchingly hot! A gentle breeze coming off the water did little to cool things down. The relative humidity was about 87%. This was not the weather to be doing boat work. The humidity was too high for varnish work, and the sun was too hot for me to be out of the shade.
I took a 20-minute walk, strategically walking close to the buildings that provided the most shade. It was mostly uphill, but I didn’t mind that. The street I was on was perpendicular to the ocean; the gentle breeze was funneled up the street! The cool wind at my back was refreshing.
I had reached my destination. From locals who said I should give it a visit, and also from tourists who said it’s a “can’t miss” spot, I just had to see it for myself.
I was at the Antonio Borges Botanical Garden. This botanical garden is focused more on trees than flower beds. It was the perfect day for a lazy stroll through the shade provided by the trees.
Palm Tree
I found this palm tree interesting. It looks like beads hanging from the tree.
What makes this botanical garden more beautiful and interesting than the others on the island, is the 3-dimensional layout. There are hills and grottos overgrown with ferns and palm trees. It was a great place to explore.
Looking down into one of the grottos
A large fern at the tunnel opening
The garden’s most famous tree was imported from Australia over 100 years ago. I had to stand by the root to give some scale.
This Tree From Australia is the Botanical Garden Center Piece
Ponds
There are several ponds in the garden as well. The photo makes the pond look small because I was trying to capture the ducks.
Ducks Swimming In One of the Ponds
Fern Dipping in the pond water
Sculture Alongside a Pond
Cafe’
There is also a small cafe, which serves beverages and snacks, along with a lunch menu.
Botanical Garden Cafe’
It was lunchtime. However, when I saw pancakes on the menu I stopped reading. Pancakes are not something you find in most restaurants or cafes. As it turned out, these were not the typical pancakes by any standard… walnuts, toffee, chocolate, bananas, caramel, and butter!
Pancakes for Lunch at the Cafe’
This is a great place! It is a great place to sit and collect your thoughts along one of the ponds… a great place to explore for young and old… a great place to escape the heat of the day. In fact, I think it will be a great place to go for breakfast too!