Kaspars Funts encourages visit to Juris’ Dream Garden in Nereta, home to over 2,500 hydrangeas

Kaspars Funts took to the social media platform X to share his discovery of a recently opened hydrangea garden in Nereta, located in the Sēlija region. He described the place as wonderful and encouraged people to travel there to see the more than 2,500 hydrangeas in bloom.

According to the tourism website Visit Aizkraukle, the garden, named Juris’ Dream Garden, is situated in Nereta Parish. Its owner, Juris Budris, spent more than three years developing an impressive hydrangea collection, which now includes over 2,500 shrubs representing more than 130 varieties. From midsummer to autumn, the garden turns into a colourful floral landscape.

The grounds include benches and swings, as well as a pond with blooming water lilies, adding a romantic atmosphere. A viewing tower offers a panoramic view over the hydrangea beds and the surrounding countryside. The garden is suitable for families, flower enthusiasts, and anyone interested in photography.

Visitors can also see Lielais Kalna Miķelāns, popularly known as Sievu akmens, a natural monument mentioned by writer Jānis Jaunsudrabiņš in his autobiographical work The Green Book. This feature gives the garden cultural and historical significance.

Budris has said the idea for the garden came from a desire to create a beautiful and well-kept environment around his home, bringing joy to himself, his family, friends, and guests of Nereta. Today, the dream has become a reality, with the garden standing as a place where nature and human care meet.

Funts noted that he plans to return in two to three weeks, expecting the hydrangeas to reach the peak of their blooming season.