The abundance of natural flora, excellent garden attractions and truly spectacular landscapes combine to give Pembrokeshire a well deserved reputation as a paradise for those who love the outdoor life. Almost a third of the county, including the entire coastal strip are in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Many of Pembrokeshire's garden attractions reflect their surrounding natural environment. Rather than being formal landscapes, most are collections of exotic species in a natural setting. This is certainly true of the National Trust's Colby Woodland Gardens near Amroth and Picton Castle and Gardens near Haverfordwest. These are woodland gardens par excellence - Colby has a marvellous walled garden with a splendid Gothic gazebo. Picton, where the Norman castle gave rise to a grand country house, can boast 40 acres including an extensive collection of medicinal and culinary herbs. It also has the added attraction of access to the castle, which is notable for its 18th century interiors and medieval undercroft, or crypt.

Smaller, but equally compelling gardens in the north of Pembrokeshire include Penlan Uchaf in the Gwaun Valley, the 17th century Manorowen Walled Garden near Fishguard and Bro Meigan near Boncath. Bro Meigan has an extensive range of plants and a tempting tearoom.

In the south of Pembrokeshire, visitors never fail to be delighted by Bosherston Lily Ponds near Pembroke.

For a unique experience, a trip to the National Nature Reserve on the island of Skomer is only 15 minutes by boat from the Dale Peninsula. It is awe inspiring, particularly in May and June, when carpets of bluebells and campion act as a backdrop to thousands of puffins and other seabirds.

Explore Pembrokeshire in more detail at www.visitpembrokeshire.com and further garden detail on http://www.britainexpress.com/wales/pembrokeshire/gardens.htm