The Schnormeier Gardens in Gambier, OH, are a collection of private gardens, over 50 acres in total, that are only open to the public during June. I was given the opportunity to visit the gardens by Mr. Schnormeier, the owner and creator, who generously allowed me to visit the estate prior to June.
The Japanese Garden was created in 1994 and was designed by Ann Schnormeier and Tom Wade. It exhibits traits associated with Sukiya style gardens.
The Serenity Garden was located on a hill near the back of the property. The site has a large tea house located at the top of the hill on a plateau and over looks a series of ponds and waterfalls, all surrounded by a variety of conifers. It was without a doubt, one of the most serene gardens I have ever had the opportunity to experience. I didn’t want to leave, even though there was more gardens to explore on the estate. Having visited 79 other gardens prior to this visit, I had never enjoyed a garden area as much as this - simply paradise!
There was also a Chinese Cup Garden that featured two intimate cup shaped areas carved out of the hillside with cliffs formed out of numerous large boulders. In 1988, a pavilion was constructed in the center of the two “cups.” Within the five sided pavilion, moon shaped windows provided exquisite view of the surrounding gardens and stones. It was a very relaxing location that provided stunning views, but also left one hidden from outside distractions, a great place to relax.
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| Dave and Mr. Schnormeier |
The Schnormeier Gardens were a highlight of my garden visits this spring and I was thankful for the opportunity to spend time within the gardens. Be sure to plan ahead for a visit, access is limited to June of each year.
