In a busy (too busy!) summer to find a spot on the calendar, a moment of spontaneity carried the day. A Sunday morning text invitation tempted me to join friends at one of my favorite spots in Newport…the Elms, a Gilded Age recreation of an 18th century French château (specifically the Château d’Asnières in Hauts-de-Seine, France). And for this gardener, what awaits at the end of the Elms sweeping lawn is what inspires my many visits…a sunken garden, planted out in a representation of the same parterres of the original design created in 1914. Remarkably intact due to the conservation efforts of the Preservation Society of Newport County, it is difficult to believe that this romantic horticultural and architectural treat is nearing 125 years old.

This treasured garden is introduced by a limestone balustrade acting as a frame, while clipped lines of evergreens border a formal allée graced with a pair of stone pavilions adding a dramatic statement.

The garden area’s promenade and the bed’s green margins impart another element of sophistication to the overall scheme. And how about this “bluebird day?”

Fortuitously, just this past year, the Elms original carriage house and terrace were turned into a dreamy luncheon spot, affording residents and visitors alike a welcome treat…”The Carriage House at the Elms”.

Of course I can’t help but mention that the restaurant’s location, at the end of the sunken garden’s formal allée, adds immeasurably to the experience of visiting this part of the estate!

You are welcome to enjoy two dining locations… the pebbled outdoor terrace, nestled within its limestone walls,

and the interiors of the carriage house, graced with painted murals and charming furniture that one would wish for in the Elms’ 125 year old carriage house.

Yet another reason to visit our exceptional “City by the Sea.” See you at the Elms!