Gorgeous gardens

We are so excited about the five beautiful gardens on this year's Mountains in Bloom garden tour in July. All of them are in the Bowery Road area of Highlands, truly one of the most spectacular spots on the mountain.

The lineup:

Bowery Road: The garden of Linda and Tom Gunnigle (of Highlands) will interest serious gardeners and seasoned designers, as well as novices. Many wonderful plant collections, an exquisite hardscape of cascading waterfalls, rock pools, stone pathways, inviting porches and patios with outdoor fireplaces, and a spectacular view of Whiteside Mountain make this a feast for the senses. An intriguing woodland path to a secluded guest house and hot tub adds to the enchantment of this lovely property.

Sagee Drive: The garden of Ruth Gershon and Sanford Cohn (of Highlands and Atlanta) features Sandy’s eclectic collection of plants and whimsical objects of garden art, showcasing a marvelous variety of native plants, roses, a waterfall, a gazebo and views of Fodderstack Mountain. His willingness to share the results of his love of gardening gives us an opportunity to appreciate a wonderfully creative and unique Sagee Ridge garden.

Sagee Drive: Lynne Winship (of Highlands and Atlanta) has carefully nurtured this quintessential Highlands garden for many years. She has fashioned an assortment of outdoor rooms -- some with breathtaking views and others with well-placed shrubs and perennials and an interesting mix of native and non-native plants. Gardeners will delight in seeing this labor of love with its soothing water feature and delectable summer colors from foliage and blooms.

Split Rail Row: The garden of Cindy and John Rooker (of Highlands and Atlanta) showcases a lovely winding entrance drive and forecourt with an assortment of mountain shrubs and perennials to be admired by all who visit. This lovely home features a welcoming entry through the house to an expansive deck with incredible views past Ellicott’s Rock and deep into Georgia.
Big Bear Pen Road: The home and garden of Stephanie and Bill Reeves (of Highlands and Atlanta) bring back fond memories of travels through the serene English countryside. Entry to the property is over a graceful stone bridge and an expansive stone walkway through a flowing lawn leads to an intimate walled courtyard. With colorful perennials and groundcovers, as well as an inviting patio enhanced by a freestanding fireplace, this area is considered to be “another room of the house” by the owners. The couple joined forces with Norman Askins, a well-known Atlanta architect, to create a superb masterpiece for all to enjoy.

Tickets on sale now at www.mountainsinbloom.com. Group rates available for Saturday garden tour - only $70/person for groups of eight or more.