Fodor's Expert Review Botanical Gardens of Nevis

In addition to terraced gardens and arbors, this remarkable 7.8-acre site in the glowering shadow of Mt. Nevis has natural lagoons, streams, and waterfalls, superlative bronze mermaids, Buddhas, egrets and herons, and extravagant fountains. You can find a proper rose garden, sections devoted to orchids and bromeliads, cacti, and flowering trees and shrubs—even a bamboo garden. The entrance to the Rain Forest Conservatory, which attempts to include every conceivable Caribbean ecosystem and then some, duplicates an imposing Mayan temple. A splendid re-creation of a plantation-style greathouse contains an event space with sweeping sea views and the Galleria Gift Shop selling art, textiles, glass items, and jewelry.