From an early age, King Charles III developed a deep passion for gardening, inspired by his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, and nurtured by the expansive gardens of royal estates such as Balmoral and Highgrove. His love for nature and the environment evolved into a commitment to organic gardening, emphasizing sustainability and ecological harmony. Over the years, Charles has implemented several organic practices in his gardens, including composting, crop rotation, and the use of native plant species. These methods are rooted in his belief that gardening should work in harmony with nature rather than against it, promoting biodiversity and maintaining the natural balance of ecosystems.
One of the cherished plants in the royal gardens is the delphinium. The name "delphinium" originates from the Greek word "delphis," meaning "dolphin," due to the shape of the flower's buds that resemble a dolphin. The plant was introduced to Scotland during the plant exchanges of the 17th and 18th centuries, quickly becoming a favorite in the gardens of the region due to its striking appearance and adaptability to the local climate. In the Balmoral Castle gardens, delphiniums have been cultivated for their vibrant colors and majestic height, adding a sense of grandeur to the royal landscape.
The connection between King Charles's gardening practices and the cultivation of delphiniums is beautifully expressed in the greenhouses of Balmoral. The choice to grow delphiniums in Balmoral is a testament to the King’s desire to preserve traditional gardening techniques while embracing modern principles of environmental stewardship, ensuring that the beauty of the royal gardens endures for generations to come.
Your day begins with a visit to the renowned Speyside Cooperage, where you witness the craftsmanship of barrel-making for whisky. Immersed in tradition, you then head to the Royal Lochnagar Distillery near Balmoral Castle, where you enjoy a whisky tasting and learn about its production secrets.
Next, you explore Balmoral Castle, the royal family’s majestic estate, strolling through its gardens and grand interiors. Afterward, you journey to Edinburgh, where an elegant dinner at "The Dome" awaits, followed by a serene stroll through the Old Town. Your day concludes with a restful night at the Virgin Hotel on Victoria Street, where modern luxury meets historical charm.
