Tucked away in Boothbay Harbor, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is not just another pretty face in Maine’s rugged coastline.
This place is a treasure trove of natural beauty, and guess what’s lurking among the trees?
Giant trolls! Yeah, you heard that right. It’s like stepping into a fantasy novel, except it’s real, and it’s in Maine.
![](https://hiddengemsus.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/troll-2.jpg)
Springtime? That’s your golden ticket to meeting these mythical creatures face-to-face, though the gardens and trolls are open for business most of the warm season as well.
Talk about an epic backyard adventure.
A Glimpse Into Wonderland
Spread out over 300 acres, this garden paradise is basically your ticket to exploring Mother Nature’s masterpiece.
With everything from lush gardens that glow in the sunlight to mysterious wooded areas and even a treehouse that seems to have popped out of a fairy tale, there’s no shortage of magic here.
![](https://hiddengemsus.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/gardens.jpg)
Each nook and cranny is a celebration of Maine’s green thumb, offering a fresh adventure with every visit.
And let’s be real, who wouldn’t want to find themselves lost in a place where fantasy meets reality?
Meet the “Guardians of the Seeds”
![](https://hiddengemsus.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/troll-3.jpg)
Now, let’s talk about the real MVPs of the garden—the trolls! Created by the eco-friendly genius Thomas Dambo, these aren’t your average garden gnomes.
These towering creatures are made from recycled junk, proving one man’s trash really is another’s treasure.
![](https://hiddengemsus.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/troll-5.jpg)
They’re not just standing there looking pretty, though. These trolls are on a mission, guiding you on a scavenger hunt through nature, all while dropping some serious truth bombs about protecting our planet.
It’s art, it’s a treasure hunt, it’s an eco-friendly reminder—all rolled into one.
![](https://hiddengemsus.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/troll-1.jpg)
A Community Effort
Building these giants was no small feat. It took Dambo’s team and a small army of local volunteers to bring them to life.
This isn’t just a display of art; it’s a symbol of Maine’s community spirit and a high-five to environmental teamwork.
![](https://hiddengemsus.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/troll-4.jpg)
But here’s the kicker—these trolls won’t be around forever. Thanks to Maine’s unforgiving winters, they’re living on borrowed time.
So, you might want to hurry up and see them before they return to the earth from whence they came.
Why You Can’t Miss This
The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is more than just a stroll through the tulips.
It’s an immersive experience that weaves together art, nature, and storytelling in a way that’s downright enchanting.
![](https://hiddengemsus.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/garden.jpg)
Planning a visit? Check their website for the 411 on tickets and events. And the best part? Wandering the troll trail won’t cost you extra on top of admission.
Also, keep an eye out for deals from local partners like L.L. Bean that can sweeten the deal.
Takeaway Time
In a world that’s always plugged in, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens offers a breath of fresh air and a chance to reconnect with the wonders of the natural world.
The giant trolls serve up a hefty dose of whimsy, a pinch of environmental awareness, and a reminder that magic is real—if you know where to look.
So, as you meander among these guardians of nature, let their story ignite your imagination and inspire a deeper appreciation for the beauty and fragility of our world.
The gardens aren’t just a place to visit; they’re an invitation to embark on a journey of discovery and enchantment.