Down The Sorenson Garden Path

Easter Sunday Funday at the National Trust Everglades gardens in Leura, is a wonderful opportunity to watch this splendid heritage garden come to life. Those small and dear to us crunch and scuffle amongst rust coloured fallen autumn leaves in search of an Easter egg or two. Spirits soar and giggles explode as the face painting tent transforms our little people into mysterious garden creatures. This is truly an enchanting way to spend Easter day.

The Everglades are a place of discovery; visitors are willingly led down the garden paths and across the terraced gardens, tantalized by the incredible valley vistas from the property’s perimeter. You’ll wander past whimsical scenarios on the wrought iron panels and edging, and across the garden theatre complete with topiary stage wings, to the restful grotto pool, or perhaps wind your way down to the lower terrace with its sweetly, babbling brook. Both are perfect spots to spread out your picnic rug and relax.

Established by a Sydney textile merchant in the 1930s, Henri Van de Velde built the Everglades as his family’s weekend retreat. His purchase entailed 13 acres of former orchard which had been decimated by the bush fires of 1910. He later employed Danish horticulturist and landscape designer Paul Sorenson to oversee the significant garden design and construction. Sorenson had once been a caretaker for the summer house of Queen Alexandra of Denmark and in Australia, had established himself as a landscape designer of considerable renown. With Henri Van de Velde’s vision and resources, Sorenson found another opportunity to create a playful garden of great calibreon a grand scale. Other examples of Sorenson’s work can be found at Leuralla and the Braes, both in Leura.

The Art Deco Van de Velde house reveal many views which contrast this formal, modern European inspired cold climate garden, with the wild Australia bush fringe. Inside the house you’ll find the tea rooms and a hearty devonshire tea. A well kept local secret is that National Trust volunteers cook a discrete winter Sunday lunch roast for eight, $28 per head, by appointment only.

The Everglades gardens are a must this Easter or anytime thereafter for a heritage garden experience and an irresistible game of hide and seek.

Located at 37 Everglades Ave, Leura NSW

Easter Sunday Funday $10 for kids $5 for adults or $25 for a family of 4.

Open during Autumn and Winter 10am till 4pm, $8 Adults, $4 Kids, National Trust members are free.

PH.02 4784 1938 Everglades Garden