Established in 2010, ToursbyMarie specializes in upscale European garden tours for small groups of passionate gardeners. Marie, the founder, is an American based in Belgium. The business organically developed from her contacts on both sides of the pond. Initially, tours were to Belgium and the Netherlands for small groups of US clients. As the clients asked for new destinations, the repertoire of destinations expanded to include France, England, Italy, and most recently Portugal.
With more than 10 years in the garden tour business and extensive first-hand knowledge of our destinations, we are able to provide our clients with a bespoke travel experience. We strive to ensure our travellers can leave all logistical worries behind and concentrate on marvelling and being inspired. We visit private gardens which are not easily accessible to a solo traveller. When we visit iconic gardens open to the public, we strive to make sure the visit is special (for example, outside regular opening hours or with a specialized private guide or the owner). We also include regional highlights such as important museums. We are proud that our garden tours offer a rich experience, combining hands-on knowledge and inspiration with the camaraderie of fellow travellers who share similar interests and, of course, a healthy dose of fun.
The adventure, learning, inspiration, and conviviality of like-minded travellers have given us an 85% return rate of garden club travellers who return again and again to explore new destinations with us.
Our founder, Marie-Elisabeth Offierski, personally vets the gardens included on each itinerary to ensure that the welcome the travellers receive is memorable. Her network of local partners, forged over the years, ensures a smooth and comfortable travelling experience.
