Jardin Botanico at Ses Salines
At last! The sun. I got an early start to Ses Salines to visit the botanical gardens there. Not a very promising start as the area is flat and agricultural, but must admit that this privately owned botanic garden is impressive. Cacti, bamboo (not so impressive), olive trees and palms. The olive trees (said to be 1000 years old .. certainly ancient) are extremely impressive and they have done a good job creating areas of planting which create a good atmosphere. Less impressed by some of the regimented planting (especially the palm tress) which make it seem more of a plantation than a garden.
My interest in cacti has increased over the years and that is the strong point of this garden. A huge variety and skilful arrangement really set them off. Two favourites .. the Mexican one which seem to create a cellular structure and the odd Century plant type with a huge asparagus tip growing out of it.
I thought there were too many identical cyads .. a Japanese variety .. but it was interesting to see them a various states of development. Some of the claims for this garden (largest in Europe, etc ) seem over the top .. in the language of Michelin Guides, it worth a detour but not a special trip..
Lunch at a nice little cafe next to the church (Pa amb ol, with Serrano ham was delicious) then by bus to Manacour to catch a train for Palma. The western part of the island is agricultural but still of interest because of the olive trees (and almonds, etc ) ..all set against a stunning backdrop of mountains.
The fine print
Date of travel : May 2008
Country information : Majorca guide