Asticou Azalea Garden — Attraction in Mount Desert

Asticou Azalea Garden, located in Northeast Harbor, Maine, is a breathtaking blend of Japanese-inspired landscaping and coastal Maine charm. Created in 1956 by Charles Savage, the garden was designed to preserve the vision of landscape architect Beatrix Farrand’s plant collections. Today, it remains a peaceful sanctuary where nature, artistry, and seasonal beauty harmoniously unite.

The garden spans a modest area but feels expansive due to its thoughtful layout. Carefully manicured pathways guide visitors through an array of azaleas, rhododendrons, Japanese maples, and evergreens, each artfully arranged to create a natural flow. In spring, the azaleas and rhododendrons burst into vibrant pinks, purples, and whites, while summer brings lush greenery and the tranquil sound of a trickling stream. By autumn, the foliage transforms into a spectacular palette of crimson and gold, making the garden a year-round delight.

A central pond, dotted with water lilies and crossed by a gracefully curved bridge, forms the heart of the garden. This serene water feature mirrors the surrounding plants and sky, enhancing the meditative atmosphere. Strategically placed stone lanterns, benches, and stepping stones add to the garden’s Japanese aesthetic while offering quiet spots to sit...

A secret garden? No. But certainly a classic one.

The Azaleas… wow! Breathtaking. This Japanese influenced design and garden was stunning.

It was well taken care of, and should be continuously upheld. They requested donations at the entrance, albeit was a free experience. We donated so that its integrity could be maintained and the garden beauty upheld.

While it is next to the Acadia National Park. We were actually able to enjoy this garden more than we were the park that day. Mid July brought out many enthusiasts of this areas outdoors. Thankfully this garden was there and we were able to have some peace away from how busy it was every where else. Personally I’d have liked to sit and read in this garden and take in the scent of the Azaleas as they linger...

On my last day in the area before hitting the road, I decided to stop by Asticou Azalea Garden. It was a quiet Tuesday morning, and I was one of the few visitors to the garden. The helpful staff provided me with a map and suggested that I make a donation to visit the garden, which I happily did.

I thoroughly enjoyed walking the paths which were delicately raked and taking in the beauty of the garden. I appreciated all of the various sitting areas where I could quietly ponder and reflect, especially the one overlooking the sand garden.

If you find yourself near Acadia national park and are looking to do something a little different, I would highly recommend checking...