Welcome to The Geographical Garden
Botanical Garden in Kolding
The Geographical Garden is a botanical oasis where you can embark on a sensory journey through the world’s plants. Here, trees, shrubs, and herbs are carefully arranged according to their geographical origin, allowing you to stroll from Japan to North America and on to China and Europe.
The garden was founded by the plant-loving pioneer Aksel Olsen, who in 1918 purchased the land and began experimenting with exotic plants from around the globe. Of more than 6000 species tested, around 2000 still thrive today – a living legacy and a botanical paradise in the heart of Kolding.
In addition to the geographical sections, you can explore atmospheric theme gardens, visit the lush Greenhouse, or let the children play freely on the playgrounds. Don’t miss the charming Animal Pen, where both kids and adults can meet goats, chickens, and rabbits.
Inspirational Gardens
The Geographical Garden offers a wealth of inspiring garden areas that invite both reflection and adventure. Explore the Nature Garden, the Herb Garden, the Organic Kitchen Garden, the Perennial Garden, and many other atmospheric green oases.
A true highlight is the award-winning Rose Garden – especially in summer, when thousands of roses burst into bloom, filling the air with dazzling colours and enchanting scents. In the Rosary, you can also experience both historic and wild roses in beautiful surroundings.
For those seeking something wilder and more adventurous, the valley Syvdalen awaits with its stream, caves, and birdsong, creating a magical, fairy-tale atmosphere. Follow the 1.8 km “Heart Trail”, where the chorus of birds and rich wildlife accompany you along the way, making your visit to the garden even more vivid and unforgettable.
Bring the Kids along
The Geographical Garden is a vibrant and diverse destination with experiences for the whole family. Here, there’s room for play, learning, and relaxation – no matter your age.
For children and young visitors, the garden is a true paradise. They can climb and play on the playgrounds, explore the Bamboo Grove and the Caves, or visit the Animal Pen, where friendly goats, rabbits, chickens, ponies, and even the garden’s resident cat are ready to welcome them.
The garden is also a popular meeting place and a green retreat for families and friends who want to enjoy nature together.
Guided Tours
The plant collection at The Geographical Garden is vast, historic, and truly unique – featuring remarkable trees, sculpted shrubs, and a wealth of perennials and herbs.
Groups have the opportunity to book a guided tour, where our knowledgeable guides will lead you through the garden while sharing their expertise and passion. Each tour is tailored to your interests – whether you are curious garden visitors, devoted botany enthusiasts, or eager to learn more about the garden’s history and its visionary founder, Aksel Olsen.
A guided tour is the ideal way to experience the garden in depth.
Do you want to book a guided tour? Write to info@geografiskhave.dk
Host your Event in The Geographical Garden
Dreaming of celebrating a special occasion in green and atmospheric surroundings?
The Geographical Garden offers rental of cozy rooms in the Greenhouse as well as charming pavilions – the perfect setting for everything from weddings and christenings to confirmations, birthdays, company parties, or business meetings.
For larger gatherings, you can enhance the day with unique outdoor experiences – such as activities, guided tours, or green inspiration that will make your celebration truly unforgettable.
Do you want to book an event in the garden? Write to info@geografiskhave.dk
Plenty of Activities
The Geographical Garden is alive and ever-changing throughout the year – offering new experiences with every season.
Across the seasons, the garden presents a rich program of activities and events: workshops, guided tours, barbecue evenings, the popular Plant Market, and much more.
There’s always something to enjoy – whether you come to learn, to explore, to relax, or to celebrate.
Food & Drinks
Café Lykkefund will be temporarily closed in 2026 during the construction of the garden’s new main entrance, The Green Portal. We look forward to welcoming you in The Green Portal in 2027.
At The Geographical Garden, you are warmly welcome to bring your own picnic basket and enjoy it in the green surroundings – there are plenty of tables and benches throughout the garden.
Kolding Mini City
A visit to Kolding Mini City is like stepping back in time. Here, you can explore more than 400 hand-built miniature houses that recreate Kolding’s cityscape as it looked between 1860 and 1870.
Every building is carefully constructed in real bricks and mortar by skilled retirees and volunteers, many of whom are often present and happy to share their knowledge and stories about the remarkable work behind this city in miniature.
A unique glimpse into the history of Kolding – brought to life in miniature.