Poitiers' largest park boasts a history that dates back to the beginning of the 18th century, when it was first established as a private garden. The Parc de Blossac is a wonderful escapade in the city-centre, creating a romantic atmosphere of beautiful grottoes, fountains and statues.

At Jersey Lavender Farm you can learn about the island’s long tradition of perfumery. This is a family-run business that welcomes thousands of visitors every year - join them to learn about lavender cultivation and stock up on artisan cosmetics, edibles and items for the home.

Constructed during the Tang Dynasty, the Drum Tower is the only remaining city gate tower in Ningbo. Atop the tower stands a six-metre-high Romanesque bell tower, a later addition from the Republic period. The base of the tower is surrounded by a commercial area, with buildings reconstructed in the traditional style.

The Botanical Garden or 'Botanique' is steeped in history. From the Middle Ages this green oasis was the garden of the former 'commanderij van Pitzemburg', order of knights. After its abolition, in the nineteenth century the garden was turned into an English landscape garden for members of the elitist Société Royale d'Horticulture. After the First World War it opened to the public as a municipal park. In the middle of the Botanical Garden is a statue of the celebrated scientist Rembert Dodoens. In the sixteenth century he wrote a highly acclaimed herbal called the 'Cruydenboek'. These days the Botanical Garden is a quiet and very pleasant park where you can enjoy the plant life while the children let off steam in the playground.