SAVANNAH

The Parkersburg Garden Club has scheduled its Isle of Hope Hideaways Tour May 2 and 3.

The self-guided tour enables guests to ride through the gorgeous streets and lanes on the island, as well as have access to eight private gardens not visible on the typical drive through.

Two of the tour sites are located on the bend of the Skidaway River, as it winds through the area. Visitors access the homes from Island Drive, off of Grimball Point Road.

In conversation with one of the landowners, she accurately refers to her garden as "Paradise," Her family built on the virgin property some 30 years ago. The site was once a part of the McIntosh Gardens, a focal point on the Island for decades. Camellias and azaleas, some more than 100 years old, flourish in a soil made rich by leaf mold layered with each passing year.

Tour participants will find the other locations to be equally attractive. Other gardens included on the tour reflect the expertise and careful planning of the homeowner.

Guests will be treated to refreshments on the porch of a home located in the Isle of Hope Historic District. The home, built in 1883, offers a panoramic view of the river.

The hours during which the gardens may be visited are from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tickets are $15 and can be obtained from any Parkersburg Garden Club member prior to the tour, or on the days of the tour, between 10 a.m.-3 p.m., on the Island. This year's location will be the Isle of Hope United Methodist Church at 412 Parkersburg Road.

Additional information can be obtained by calling (912) 352-8745 or (912) 355-2042.