NTNU Ringve Botanical Garden

Located on the picturesque Lade peninsula, the Ringve Botanical Garden is a true gem of Trondheim. This university garden, representing flora from across Norway and other countries, covers an area of about 13 hectares and serves as an important center for scientific research and biodiversity conservation.

Ringve Botanical Garden. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

At the center of the garden stands the historic Ringve Manor, with a history dating back to the 17th century. The grounds are divided into several unique zones: an extensive Arboretum featuring trees from the Northern Hemisphere, a Systematic Garden that illustrates plant evolution, and even a Renaissance Garden with medicinal herbs popular three centuries ago.

The Allium Garden, which features over 100 species of wild onions, and the Historical Park, designed in an elegant English style, are particularly noteworthy. With free admission and a diverse range of landscapes, Ringve remains one of the most attractive places to experience Northern nature and the region's historical heritage.

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At the Ringve Botanical Garden, there is something for everyone, from leisurely strolls through the Arboretum to studying rare species in the Systematic Garden. Botany enthusiasts will enjoy seeing the collection of a hundred wild onion species or visiting the Renaissance Garden, where a 17th-century physic garden has been recreated with its unique aromas and medicinal herbs.

The garden grounds are perfect for photoshoots and picnics against the backdrop of the old manor or in the shade of the centuries-old trees in the Historical Park. During the peak blooming season of ornamental plants in spring and summer, the garden transforms into a vibrant kaleidoscope of colors, attracting artists and nature lovers. Educational guided tours are also available by prior arrangement.

A visit to the garden is easily combined with a cultural outing to the adjacent Ringve Music Museum. After walking the garden paths, you can head down to the fjord and continue your journey along the famous Ladestien trail, enjoying the sea air and panoramic views of the Trondheimsfjord coastline.

Getting to the Ringve Botanical Garden from the city center is quite easy. The most pleasant way is to take a walk or a bike ride, which takes about 40 minutes. The route passes through the picturesque residential areas of the Lade peninsula, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Trondheim.

If you prefer public transport, take the bus to the Ringve or Lade stops, from which the garden entrance is just a few minutes' walk away. You can also quickly reach the site by taxi from the central square or the railway station.

For those traveling by private or rental car, parking is available near the manor. A visit to the garden can be conveniently combined with a walk along the popular Ladestien coastal trail, which passes nearby and offers magnificent views of the fjord.

The history of this site began long before the arrival of rare plants. The Ringve Manor has been known since the 17th century; the oldest parts of the main building were constructed in the 1690s. For centuries, the estate served as a residence for noble families and was an important agricultural hub for the region.

In 1878, the estate was purchased by the Bachke family, who carried out an extensive renovation while preserving the historical charm of the buildings. It was thanks to their efforts and passion for the arts that not only the garden but also the Ringve Music Museum was later established here, founded by Victoria Bachke in 1952 based on her unique collection of instruments.

The Ringve Botanical Garden itself was officially established in 1973 as a division of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). Today, it continues the traditions of scientific education established by the Royal Norwegian Society of Sciences and Letters back in the 18th century, while remaining a favorite recreational spot for locals.

To explore the garden's main themed areas and enjoy a peaceful stroll, most visitors need 1 to 2 hours. This is usually enough time to see the Arboretum and admire the flowerbeds around the historical manor.

If you plan to study the plant collection in detail, book a guided tour, or combine your visit with the Ringve Music Museum exhibitions, you should set aside half a day. The garden invites contemplative relaxation, so there is no need to rush, especially in sunny weather.

The Ringve Botanical Garden is open to visitors 24 hours a day, year-round, allowing you to enjoy its beauty at any time. Entry to the garden grounds is free.

Please note that organized tours and access to the interior of the historic manor or the museum may have separate schedules. To check tour times, it is recommended to visit the official website of the NTNU university.

The surroundings of the Lade peninsula are rich in interesting locations worth visiting before or after your walk through the garden. Exploring this area will allow you to dive deeper into the culture and history of Trondheim, as well as find great spots for family leisure.