Enchanting Park Eisenhut

The Botanical Park Gambarogno is located in Vairano-San Nazzaro and is known for its collection of camellias and magnolias, one of the richest in Europe. In fact, thanks to its hillside position, to the soil and to the climate, over 950 varieties of camellias and almost equally as many magnolias, prosper in the park. There are also many rare species such as azaleas, rhododendrons and other ornamental flowers.

The park originated in 1955 when the nursery gardener Otto Eisenhut bought the land and founded a gardening business. He initially grew Christmas trees and later branched out into a nursery business.

What opened his horizons was his encounter with two interesting personalities: Sir Peter Smithers, ex Secretary General of the Council of Europe and owner of a magnificent park in Vico Morcote, and Piet Van Veen, a retired dentist of Dutch origin, with a passion for magnolias, camellias and irises. Moved by great zeal, Eisenhut thenceforth started expanding his assortment dedicating all his free time to the park while continuing his gardening business.

Today his paradise spreads over 20,000 m2 and hikers following the panoramic pathway from San Nazzaro harbour to Vira Gambarogno should definitely make a stop here.

The flowering occurs over a period of a few months but the most opportune time to visit is during the spring when the Park Eisenhut is a jubilation of flower corollas. It is a treat for the eyes and a balm for the soul.