Bamboo Bingo Bongo Shop
Bamboo crafts and pipes
We are inspired not only by the aesthetic of manual labor and the nautical spirit, but also by unique places where nature itself creates ideal forms. Working with bamboo and creating handcrafted bamboo products, we are constantly looking for new sources of inspiration. One such special place is the Arboretum Trsteno (sometimes called Tristeno), located near Dubrovnik, on the picturesque Adriatic coast.
It is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe and a true jewel of Croatia. The history of the botanical garden Croatia began back in the 15th century, when the noble Gozze family (Gučetić) invited sea captains to bring seeds and plants from distant lands. This is how hundreds of exotic species appeared in this corner of Croatia—from ancient plane trees to tropical cultures, including various types of bamboo.
Among them are stunning bamboo groves, where golden bamboo and black bamboo grow side-by-side. For us, who create handcrafted bamboo décor and bamboo products, these plants are of particular interest. When we searched for information about black bamboo plantations specifically in this park, no source mentioned it. But in reality, it turned out that it truly grows there—a rare and beautiful discovery, confirmed by our on-site photographs. It is precisely such findings that inspire us to create unique bamboo decor and bamboo art.
By the way, fans of the series Game of Thrones will find this place familiar: Arboretum Trsteno became one of the main filming locations for King’s Landing. It is one of the most famous sights of Dubrovnik and a popular Game of Thrones filming location. Strolling among the bamboo and fountains in Trsteno Gardens, you feel as if you are stepping into the series’ frames—only without the decorations and special effects. For fans, Game of Thrones filming took place in several locations within the garden.
Furthermore, Arboretum Trsteno Croatia is home to over 300 plant species, including rare varieties of palms, laurels, magnolias, and many types of bamboo—from traditional green (golden bamboo) to exotic black (black bamboo). This bamboo grove in Croatia has become a real source of inspiration for us when working on our handcrafted bamboo items.
If you are planning Croatia travel and find yourself in Croatia, be sure to include Dubrovnik attractions and visit the Arboretum Trsteno in your itinerary. A walk among the bamboo Croatia and old avenues is well worth it: the entrance fee in November 2025 is 10 euros per person, and it is, without a doubt, the best spent 10 euros for those who appreciate nature and beauty. And for those interested in bamboo products and wanting to see how natural material inspires the creation of unique décor—this place is a must-visit.
Visit our shop bamboobongo.com to see how the inspiration from places like the Trsteno bamboo groves is embodied in our bamboo products. We offer handcrafted bamboo products and work with wholesale customers worldwide.