A private garden in Wales

Imagine waking to this view

I've been inspired to take a backward look by Barry Parker's posts, sharing his trip to many wonderful Welsh gardens this past September. These include, by coincidence, the Cowbridge Physic Garden and the National Botanic Garden of Wales. Barry reminded me of our UK trip in 2008, including a visit to Bodnant Gardens (a few photos here; I'll try to add more). Then I remembered my cousin's garden.

She is definitely a real person, and hers is definitely a real garden – and an inspiring one, too. A few miles from Prestatyn in North Wales, it's gifted with a great setting. But the design is all her own.

View from the upper garden, down the steeply sloped property

From the roadway, coral roses spill through deep purple lavender

The gravel terrace includes strategically placed lavender seedlings. On the wall are 'Penny Lane' roses, her favourite.

As you drool over this bucolic view from the upper terrace, remember: sheep can be noisy.

My cousin's deft hand with colour is evident in this monochromatic planter

Climbers and spillers soften the stone steps

Feline helper Pepi oversees it all

It's set amongst the rolling hills of North Wales

Within minutes of the North Sea