33 Creative and Inspiring Ideas for Designing Paths in Your Garden

Whether your garden is large or small, designing the outdoor space is a matter of priority. Like establishing certain passageways in the form of paths that are functional and decorative at the same time. Discover some accurate ways to achieve it.

Objective: structure the spaceOne of the keys to landscaping and garden design undoubtedly consists in shaping the outdoor space, dividing some areas from others, allowing logical circulation and creating different planes.

And in this process, the layout of one or more paths is a decisive point. For this reason, whatever your garden is like, it is important to establish pathways that cross it and connect some areas with others.

If the square meters allow it, it is a good idea to create smooth curves along the path, since they add dynamism to its layout. In small gardens the paths will be shorter and straighter, but no less interesting.

Read: The best ideas to illuminate your garden

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Why is it a good idea to create a trail?Garden paths do not only fulfill an isolated function, nor are they only relevant in extensive gardens. In any outdoor space they can become a key element.

– To begin with, they divide the space in a very clear way, establishing the different zones and marking the way to them: towards the living area, the pool, the access to the house, etc.

– They add visual interest to the garden. If you choose the materials and layout well, they can become a design element.

– In addition, they protect the grass from unnecessary footsteps. It is clear that when you have a meadow in your garden it is to enjoy it. However, the paths prevent certain areas of passage from being spoiled, which is quite unsightly.

Read: All the care your lawn needs to be perfect this summer

A stone pathAmong all the materials that can be chosen to create a path in the garden, stone is one of the most relevant.

In addition to being decorative, it is resistant and requires little maintenance: reasons why it is worth deciding on stone.

Installing them on the trail is not difficult. You can choose stone slabs or stone slabs that offer a more rustic and natural look. You just have to dig the ground a little so that the stone, once placed, is flush with the ground. Let the space between the flagstones fill in with grass; the result is very decorative.

Read: 10 spectacular outdoor plants capable of resisting everything

Bet on wooden flooringOnce again, wood becomes that natural, noble and warm material that we like so much throughout the house, also outside.

It is perfect for laying out garden paths although, being outdoors, you must give it the appropriate treatment to protect it from rain, sun and extreme temperatures.

There are several ideas for using wood in a walkway. You can opt for parquet floors, with new or recycled wooden boards that are placed in a row and that will give the garden a very contemporary air.

Read: Practical and decorative solutions to give privacy to your garden

With rustic boards or train sleepersThis is another way to use wood to create your garden path. You no longer look for an orderly pavement like the one presented by the parquet floors, but rather to mark the path by placing wooden boards on the ground.

You can use rustic boards or train sleepers, which give the space a country air. Place them so that they are slightly buried in the ground, which can be gravel, sand or grass. Put them apart from each other marking the steps.

You should apply a specific protective treatment for wood once or twice a year.

Read: Discover the best outdoor floors to renovate the terrace

The decorative power of gravelThis is one of the best options to create a path in your garden. Not only is it a practical material, easy to install and maintain, but it also gives the space a very decorative air, reminiscent of stately gardens and, at the same time, achieves a simple and special effect.

If you decide on this option, you will have to choose the size and color of the gravel, which can be white, grey, red, etc.

Then you will have to place an anti-weed mesh on the path, to prevent weeds from sprouting between the gravel. Place stones, pavers or bricks on the edges of the path to contain it, and fill the path with it.

brick effectBricks are a very special option when it comes to creating paths in the garden. You can place them online or by creating a different design.

There are many types, sizes, formats and colors to choose from. Without proper treatment, brick is a resistant material that will remain perfect for many years.

Read: Do you know how to clean your outdoor brick floors?

a sandy pathThe sand can become a good option to create a path in the garden, since it is manageable and provides a natural air. You can choose different types and colors: white, gold, more reddish, etc. You only have to limit the edges of the path well so that the sand does not spread.

A piece of advice: if it rains a lot where you live, this may not be the best option for your garden paths. reflect.

Pine bark: a sustainable optionIn addition to being a very cheap material, pine bark is natural and sustainable. You can cover the paths with it in a very simple way and you will achieve an original effect.

Begin by laying out the path and creating the edges with stone, brick, or any other material that contains pine bark. Then place an anti-weed mesh and fill with the pine bark.

Combine different materials

Choosing two materials, preferably contrasting, and combining them in the same path can be a very decorative alternative.

In addition, the possibilities are endless: brick with stone slabs, pavers and gravel, stone and sand slabs, wooden boards and gravel, etc.

Mixing different materials opens up a whole world of creative possibilities for you.