We payed a visit to the Filoli House and Gardens in Woodside, California which boasts some of the most beautiful gardens in Northern California. This is one of my favorite places to visit because it feels like you're stepping into a real life scene from Alice in Wonderland and all the proceeds from the entrance fee go towards restoration and maintenance of the property. When I was planning an outfit for our lovely afternoon in the garden, I knew I had to sport some whimsical florals.

The Filoli House and Gardens have been preserved to maintain its historical authenticity and grandeur. Filoli was built as a private residence in 1917 by a wealthy San Francisco family and is now open for the public to enjoy.

Visiting Filoli feels like you're stepping into the past, a time filled with old world charms. The gardens are very well manicured and cared for with a wide variety of trees and flowers. The grounds spread over hundreds of acres with everything from an English rose garden to fields of orchards. Check out this amazing video with aerial views of the 654 acres of property at Filoli.

A Glimpse Into History

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Woodside, California, Filoli stands as a timeless testament to early 20th-century elegance and horticultural splendor. Just a short drive from the bustling heart of Silicon Valley, this historic estate offers a serene escape into a world of manicured gardens, grand architecture, and rich history.

Filoli, which stands for "Fight, Love, Live," was built between 1915 and 1917 by William Bowers Bourn II, a prominent businessman and owner of one of California's most successful gold mines. Designed as both a family residence and a place to entertain, the 54,000-square-foot Georgian Revival mansion embodies elegance and grandeur.

Upon stepping inside, visitors are transported into the opulent lifestyle of early 20th-century California's elite. The mansion's period furnishings, intricate woodwork, and richly decorated rooms offer a fascinating insight into the lives of the Bourn family and, later, the Roth family, who purchased the estate in 1937.

As you wander through the lavish interiors, you'll find a variety of rooms each designed with specific themes in mind. The ballroom, with its massive crystal chandeliers, exudes sophistication, while the drawing room's cozy yet refined ambiance invites you to imagine quiet moments spent by the fireplace. Don’t miss the library, filled with antique books, and the sunroom, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding gardens.

The Breathtaking Gardens

While the mansion itself is a masterpiece, the true magic of Filoli lies in its gardens. Spanning 16 acres, the meticulously maintained gardens are a living work of art. Designed to blend formal and informal elements, the garden’s layout mirrors the estate's grandeur while providing plenty of serene corners for peaceful reflection.

In spring, the gardens come alive with vibrant colors. Tulips, daffodils, and other spring blooms paint a picturesque landscape that feels almost surreal. During the summer, the rose garden is in full bloom, offering a stunning display of fragrant roses in a variety of hues. Even in autumn and winter, the gardens maintain their charm with carefully designed topiaries, crisp autumn leaves, and beautiful evergreen accents.

One of the highlights of the garden is the walled garden, a tranquil space lined with manicured hedges and framed by elegant archways. As you wander through its paths, you'll find yourself immersed in a world of greenery, blooming flowers, and the occasional butterfly. The nearby sunken garden, with its reflecting pool and classical statues, adds a romantic touch to the estate’s outdoor beauty.

The Story Behind the Name Filoli

The name "Filoli" is a unique amalgamation of the first two letters from the key words of William Bourn's personal credo:

Fight for a just cause
Love your fellow man
Live a good life

In 1937, the estate changed hands when it was purchased by William P. Roth and his wife, Lurline Matson Roth. The Roth family preserved the estate's grandeur and continued to enhance the gardens until 1975, when Filoli was donated to the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Today, it welcomes visitors from around the world, offering a glimpse into California's storied past.

The Mansion: A Walk Through Elegance

The Georgian-style mansion at Filoli is a marvel of architecture and design. Spanning 36,000 square feet, the 56-room residence showcases exquisite craftsmanship, from intricate woodwork to ornate plaster ceilings. As you meander through the halls and rooms, you'll encounter period furnishings, art collections, and personal artifacts that paint a vivid picture of life during the estate's heyday.

Highlights of the mansion include:

The Ballroom: Adorned with crystal chandeliers and opulent decor, this space hosted many lavish parties and events.
The Dining Room: Featuring a grand table set with fine china and silverware, it offers insights into the formal dining traditions of the era.
The Library: Lined with rich mahogany bookshelves, it reflects the intellectual pursuits of the estate's former residents.

The Gardens: Nature's Masterpiece

Filoli's 16-acre formal gardens are a horticultural delight, meticulously designed to showcase seasonal blooms and landscape artistry. Divided into various themed sections, each area offers a unique sensory experience.

The Sunken Garden: A serene space featuring a reflecting pool, vibrant flower beds, and symmetrical design elements.
The Rose Garden: Home to numerous rose varieties, it bursts with color and fragrance, especially during late spring and early summer.
The Knot Garden: Showcasing intricate patterns formed by carefully trimmed hedges, it's a nod to traditional European garden designs.
The Gentleman’s Orchard: Spanning over 10 acres, this orchard boasts a variety of heirloom fruit trees, including apples, pears, and plums.

Seasonal changes bring new life to the gardens:

Spring: Tulips, daffodils, and cherry blossoms create a colorful tapestry.
Summer: Roses and perennials reach their peak, and the garden buzzes with activity.
Autumn: Foliage transforms into shades of gold and crimson, offering a picturesque landscape.
Winter: Camellias and early-blooming plants provide subtle beauty against the backdrop of evergreens.

Events and Activities in Filoli

Filoli is more than just a historic site; it's a living cultural center that hosts a variety of events throughout the year:

Nature Hikes: Explore the estate's vast natural reserve through guided hikes that delve into local flora and fauna.
Art Exhibitions: The estate frequently showcases works by local artists, integrating art with the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Seasonal Celebrations: From festive holiday decorations during "Holiday Traditions" to summer concerts on the lawn, there's always something happening at Filoli.

A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Beyond the formal gardens, Filoli is surrounded by acres of woodlands, meadows, and scenic hiking trails. If you're looking for a more adventurous experience, take a walk along the Estate Trail, which winds through the property’s natural landscapes and offers stunning views of the nearby Santa Cruz Mountains.

Filoli also hosts a variety of seasonal events and programs, including guided hikes, bird-watching tours, and workshops on gardening and conservation. It’s a great place to reconnect with nature while learning about the estate’s commitment to sustainability and environmental preservation.

Tips for Visiting Filoli

Best Time to Visit

Filoli is open year-round, but the gardens are particularly stunning in spring and early summer. If you’re interested in seasonal blooms, plan your visit between March and June.

Guided Tours

While it’s easy to explore Filoli on your own, guided tours are available and provide fascinating insights into the estate’s history, architecture, and garden design.

Events and Programs

Be sure to check the Filoli website for information on special events such as holiday celebrations, art exhibits, and outdoor concerts, which can make your visit even more memorable.

Photography

Don’t forget your camera! Whether you're snapping photos of the blooming flowers or capturing the estate's grand architecture, Filoli offers countless opportunities for photography enthusiasts.

Plan Ahead

Check the official Filoli website for hours of operation, as they can vary by season. Purchasing tickets online can save time upon arrival.

Accessibility

The estate strives to be accessible, but some garden paths may be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Dining

Enjoy a meal or snack at the on-site café, which offers a selection of locally sourced dishes and refreshments.

Top 10 Photography Spots inside Filoli House and Gardens

A few words of advice if you’re planning a photography trip to Filoli. On a sunny day, avoid the middle of the daytime to take photos. We made this rookie mistake and many of our photos didn’t turn out well because there was so much shadow and blown-out lighting. The gardens open at 10am and close at 5pm. I recommend either going on a cloudy day or towards the end of the day.

When you’re walking around the property, you are only allowed to walk on the paved paths. So if you’re looking at the big green lawns and thinking you want to do some picnic photos, it’s not gonna happen. The docents are very strict about where you can go on the property.

Best Photography Spots in Filoli

Main House Entrance
Back Lawn and Patio Behind the House
Brick Flower House
The Rose Garden
The Ornate Gates
The Ivy Wall
The Rows of Trees
The Garden Patio
The Wooden Door
The Lily Pond

In Conclusion

Filoli is more than just a historic house and garden—it's a place where beauty, history, and nature come together to create a truly magical experience. Whether you're looking to spend a leisurely afternoon wandering through the gardens, learning about California’s past, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings, Filoli is a destination that will leave you feeling inspired and refreshed.

Visiting Filoli is like stepping into a different era—a place where history, art, and nature intertwine seamlessly. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a garden lover, or simply in search of a tranquil retreat, Filoli offers an enriching experience that captivates the senses. It's a destination that invites you to not only see its beauty but to feel a part of its enduring legacy.

If you’re in the Bay Area or planning a trip to Northern California, make sure to add Filoli to your itinerary. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, and the beauty of both nature and history can be appreciated in all their glory.