Arboretum Trsteno is like no other museum you've ever seen. Instead of being confined to glass cases, here, the exhibits are one with nature, creating a truly breathtaking experience. This remarkable place has a rich history, dating all the way back to 1948, making it Croatia's oldest garden architecture monument. It was built on the grounds of a Renaissance summer house and garden that belonged to the Gučetić-Gozze noble family from Dubrovnik in the late 14th century. With a remarkable collection of 465 cultivated and 510 wild plant species, Arboretum Trsteno ranks among the most stunning coastal gems.

A Hidden Natural Treasure Near Dubrovnik

Surprisingly, many visitors to Dubrovnik are unaware of the hidden natural treasure located just 20 kilometers northwest of the city. Spreading across 28 hectares; Arboretum Trsteno beautifully combines lush greenery with the timeless charm of the Dubrovnik region. As you explore its grounds, you'll encounter a Renaissance park housing a summer house, a neo-romantic park dating back to the late 19th century, an ancient olive grove, the St. Jerome chapel from the 17th century, an aged olive mill, a 15th-century aqueduct, and a baroque fountain embellished with statues of Neptune, and a nymph filled with white waterlilies and dozens of bullfrogs and goldfish. 

Additionally, at the entrance to Trsteno village stand two colossal plane trees that are over 500 years old and reach an impressive height of 50 meters. These majestic trees rank among the largest of their kind in Europe.

Impressive Collection of Plant Species

The Arboretum boasts an impressive collection of 510 native plant species representing 84 families. Additionally, the Renaissance garden houses 465 cultivated species from 111 families. Over time, thanks to the naval fleet's influence, the park began to receive various exotic plants from around the world. Today, approximately 22% of the collection consists of Asian species, and 17% are American species. You'll find captivating plants like the California fan palm, Canary date, Mediterranean fan palm, avocado, Himalayan cypress, Lebanese cedar, and many more, all hailing from different corners of the globe.

As you stroll amidst the lush greenery and enchanting botanical wonders, you can't help but feel a deep connection to the past. Each step unveils a tapestry of trees and plants, some of which have stood the test of time for centuries. But the true gem awaits you at the end of this immersive experience. As you reach the terrace, perched on the park's edge, you'll witness a breathtaking panoramic view of the majestic Adriatic Sea.

Game of Thrones Filming Location

Even the creators of the popular TV series Game of Thrones couldn't resist the allure of Arboretum Trsteno. This splendid location became the backdrop for the Red Keep palace gardens in the heart of King's Landing. Devoted fans of the popular show will fondly recall the unforgettable moments when Sansa and Lady Olenna exchanged juicy gossip about the infamous King Joffrey. They will also remember the unlikely alliance forged between the cunning Lord Varys and the witty Olenna as they navigated the treacherous political landscape. Arboretum Trsteno served as the perfect setting, adding an extra layer of enchantment to these iconic scenes and forever intertwining the beauty of the gardens with the rich tapestry of the Game of Thrones universe.

If you want to visit this natural gem enriched with history, it is open for visits every day from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. The price of the tickets for adults is 10€ and for kids 7€.

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