After enjoying a latte at a German bakery a few steps away from my hotel this morning, I studied the latest weather predictions. Showers later in the day. Okay then, I had to get a move on if I wanted to visit the botanical gardens.
Located adjacent to the opera house, it is 80 acres of winding paths through sweeping green lawns, groves of indigenous and exotic trees, duck ponds, and (according to my guide book, I assure you I didn’t count them) some 45,124 types of plants. It began as a failed attempt by convicts of the First Fleet to establish a farm. Today it is a well-marked space which I found incredibly peaceful and inspiring. I’m continually amazed at God’s diverse creation, and enjoyed both the plants and intriguing birds. After lunch at a cafe where I sat overlooking a pond, I came upon a flock on Sulphur-crested Cockatoos. One was interested in me for some reason, and came up and started nipping at my jeans, and then my ankle! There were also lots of Ibis, seemingly unafraid of humans.
I enjoyed the various themed gardens: Oriental, fernery, Australian rainforest, and the palm grove. Below are a few photos. Click on a photo to see it full size.
You're right, the landscape is very diverse. Not at all what I imagined it would look like. Very beautiful.