List of Remarkable Gardens of France by Region

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A stunning aerial view of the geometric gardens of Versailles, France in summer.
Credit: pexels.com, A stunning aerial view of the geometric gardens of Versailles, France in summer.

France is home to a diverse range of gardens, each with its own unique character and charm. From the grand châteaux of the Loire Valley to the rustic charm of the Dordogne, France's gardens are a true reflection of the country's rich history and culture.

The gardens of the Loire Valley are particularly famous for their stunning beauty and grandeur. The Château de Chambord's gardens, for example, cover over 150 acres and feature a beautiful parterre, a maze, and a stunning view of the surrounding countryside.

In the south of France, the gardens of Provence are renowned for their vibrant colors and fragrant herbs. The Jardin de la Camargue in Arles is a must-visit, with its beautiful water lilies and lotus flowers.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Jardín De Cactus

Regional Gardens

The Gardens of Burgundy are a must-visit destination for any garden enthusiast. Located in the region of Burgundy, these gardens are a testament to the beauty of French horticulture.

Credit: youtube.com, Top 10 Gardens | One of the "Remarkable Gardens of France"

The gardens are comprised of several notable sites, including the Lantilly – Kitchen Garden of the Château de Lantilly, which features a variety of plants and trees, including century-old plane trees and yew trees pruned into fantastic shapes. Alligny-en-Morvan's Park and Garden of the Château de La Chaux and Châtillon-en-Bazois's Park and Garden of the Château de Châtillon-en-Bazois are also notable mentions.

Some of the notable gardens in the region include:

  • Lantilly – Kitchen Garden of the Château de Lantilly
  • Alligny-en-Morvan – Park and Garden of the Château de La Chaux
  • Châtillon-en-Bazois – Park and Garden of the Château de Châtillon-en-Bazois
  • Varenne-l'Arconce – The Romanesque Gardens (fr: Jardins Romans)

Alsace

Alsace is home to some truly stunning gardens, and I'm excited to share a couple of examples with you. The Gardens of Alsace are a must-see for any garden enthusiast.

The Château de Caudon in Domme boasts an impressive Park and Boxwood Garden, created between 1808 and 1814 by the Marquis Jacques de Malville. This garden is a beautiful blend of French landscape and garden à la française styles.

One of the unique features of the Château de Caudon's garden is its creation by the Marquis Jacques de Malville, who was also an author of the French Civil Code. That's a pretty impressive credentials for a gardener!

The Gardens of the Château de Chaumont in Oyé are another notable example of Alsace's beautiful gardens.

For more insights, see: Monty Don's French Gardens

Parcs & Jardins

Credit: youtube.com, Escape to the Best Hidden Gem Paris Parks and Gardens

Regional Gardens offer a unique glimpse into the history and culture of each region. The gardens of Alsace, for instance, feature a mix of French landscape and garden à la française styles.

Gardens of Alsace include the Park and Boxwood Garden of the Château de Caudon, created between 1808 and 1814 by the Marquis Jacques de Malville. This garden is a must-see for its beautiful design and historical significance.

In contrast, the gardens of Brittany showcase a more varied range of styles. The Park of the Château de Trevarez, created between 1894 and 1906, features a mix of Italian and French influences.

Gardens of Burgundy are known for their stunning kitchen gardens. The Kitchen Garden of the Château de Lantilly, created in the mid-19th century, contains a wide variety of trees, including plane trees and yew trees pruned into fantastic shapes.

Some notable gardens in the region include the Park and Garden of the Château de La Chaux, which was recreated in 1994, and the Romanesque Gardens (Jardins Romans) in Varenne-l'Arconce.

Credit: youtube.com, Normandy gardens : Parc et verger "les prés"

The Alpes-Maritimes region is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in France. The Jardin d'agrumes du Palais Carnolès in Menton is a must-see for its stunning citrus trees.

Other notable gardens in the region include the Villa Ephrussi in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, which features a beautiful garden with a variety of flowers and trees.

In the Côte d'Or region, the Mill of Athie is a notable example of a restored mill with a beautiful garden. The garden features a large variety of trees, including chestnuts and sequoias, as well as a pond of water lilies.

Some notable gardens in the region include the Garden of the Château de Barbirey, which features a 19th-century English landscape garden, and the Park of Saint-Léger de Fourches, which features a mix of old local trees and more exotic species.

Here are some notable gardens in the Vosges region:

  • Jardins de Callunes in Ban-de-Sapt
  • Jardin d'altitude du Haut Chitelet in Xonrupt-Longemer

The Champagne-Ardenne region is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in France. The Château de Chamarande features a stunning Renaissance-style garden that was enlarged between 1739 and 1763.

Credit: youtube.com, French Garden Visit - Parc Floral de Haute Bretagne, Brittany

Some notable gardens in the Drôme region include the Jardin zen d'Erik Borja at Beaumont-Monteux, which features a beautiful Zen garden, and the Parc Jouvet in Valence, which features a mix of gardens and a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside.

In the Jura region, the Park and the "Garden of Games" of the Château d'Arlay is a notable example of a pre-romantic park. The garden features a beautiful bowling green, cascades of plants, and flower gardens illustrating the theme of amusement.

Some notable gardens in the Loir-et-Cher region include the Rose gardens and terraces of the bishop's residence in Blois, which feature a beautiful rose garden, and the Garden of the Château de Beauregard, which features a contemporary garden inspired by the gallery of the illustrious.

The Puy-de-Dôme region is home to some of the most beautiful gardens in France. The Gardens of the Château d'Hauterive feature a classical composition of lawns, avenues, and parterres.

Some notable gardens in the region include the Château de Cordès in Orcival, which features a recreated garden à la française at an altitude of nine hundred meters, and the Gardens of the Château d'Opme, which feature a mix of classical and Renaissance styles.

In the Pays de la Loire region, the Jardin des plantes de Nantes is a notable example of a beautiful botanical garden.

For your interest: Bushey Rose Garden

Departmental Gardens

Credit: youtube.com, Remarkable Gardens of France

Indre-et-Loire is a department in France known for its stunning gardens. The Gardens of la Chatonnière, located near Azay-le-Rideau, feature ten gardens with unique themes, including Silence, Fragrance, and Wonder.

Each garden has its own distinct character, with features like a pergola covered in roses and an abundance of clematis and wisterias. The gardens are a must-visit for anyone interested in horticulture or simply looking for a peaceful escape.

Some of the most notable gardens in Indre-et-Loire include the Park and Gardens of the Château de Chenonceau, which features a circular maze and a gloriette in the middle. The Gardens of the Château du Rivau, located in Lémeré, are composed of twelve different gardens and feature a 16th-century fountain and a maze.

Here's a list of some of the notable gardens in Indre-et-Loire:

  • Gardens of la Chatonnière
  • Park and Gardens of the Château de Chenonceau
  • Gardens of the Château du Rivau
  • Prébendes d'Oë
  • Gardens of the Château de Villandry

These gardens showcase the beauty and diversity of French horticulture and are definitely worth a visit.

Indre-et-Loire

Indre-et-Loire is a treasure trove of beautiful gardens, each with its own unique theme and charm. The Gardens of la Chatonnière at Azay-le-Rideau are a must-visit, featuring ten gardens with different themes, including Silence, the Senses, and Fragrance.

Credit: youtube.com, {Ep. 41} Discovering small FRENCH VILLAGES and green sites in INDRE-ET-LOIRE · A month in France

The gardens were created by gardener Ahmed Azeroual, who drew inspiration from his time as head gardener at the Château de Villandry. Azeroual's vision is reflected in the stunning pergola covered with roses, and the abundance of clematis and wisterias.

One of the highlights of the Gardens of la Chatonnière is the variety of gardens, each with its own distinct character. You can explore the Silence garden, the Senses garden, and the Fragrance garden, among others.

The Château de Chenonceau is another gem in Indre-et-Loire, boasting two carefully restored Renaissance gardens. The garden of Diane de Poitiers still features its original fountain, while the garden of Catherine de Médicis is a masterpiece of its time.

The Château de Chenonceau also boasts a circular maze, created with 2,000 yew trees and a gloriette in the middle. This is a great place to get lost and enjoy the beauty of nature.

The Park and Gardens of the Château de Valmer at Chançay are a must-visit for anyone who loves fruit trees, vegetable gardens, and floral displays. The gardens feature a colorful mixture of plants, ornamented with balustrades and fountains.

If you're visiting in August to October, be sure to check out the garden filled with giant squash. And if you're interested in history, the underground chapel dating from 1524 is a fascinating sight.

Credit: youtube.com, Villadry France

The Gardens of the Château du Rivau at Lémeré are a hidden gem, featuring 12 different gardens and a 16th-century fountain. The gardens are surrounded by a restored white stone castle, built from the 13th to the 15th century.

The Château du Rivau is also home to six thousand irises in bloom in May, four hundred types of roses in June, and poppies and other flowers covering the fields around the château in summer.

Here's a quick rundown of the gardens in Indre-et-Loire:

  • Azay-le-Rideau: Gardens of la Chatonnière with 10 different gardens
  • Chenonceaux: Park and Gardens of the Château de Chenonceau with 2 Renaissance gardens and a circular maze
  • Chançay: Park and Gardens of the Château de Valmer with fruit trees, vegetable gardens, and floral displays
  • Lémeré: Gardens of the Château du Rivau with 12 different gardens and a 16th-century fountain

Yvelines

Yvelines is a department in the Île-de-France region of France known for its stunning natural beauty.

The department is home to the beautiful Arboretum de la Vallee-aux-Loups, a 10-hectare park featuring a collection of rare and exotic trees.

Located just outside of Paris, Yvelines offers a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

The Arboretum de la Vallee-aux-Loups was founded in 1856 by the French composer Hector Berlioz.

Credit: youtube.com, West-Paris sights: Versailles - Claude Monet's garden - Miniature

Visitors can explore the park's many walking trails, including the 1.5-kilometer path that winds its way through the arboretum's beautiful gardens.

The park's tranquil atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic or family outing.

The department's beautiful gardens and parks are a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of France.

Specific Gardens

In the Côte d'Or region, you can find some truly remarkable gardens, each with its own unique charm. The Garden of the Château de Barbirey in Barbirey-sur-Ouche features terraces, kitchen gardens, and an orchard with a variety of fruit trees.

Some notable gardens in the area include the Garden of the Château de Talmay, which boasts 280 apple and pear trees carved into the shape of bowls, as well as a labyrinth of box trees. The Park of Saint-Léger de Fourches in Saulieu features many old local trees, including oaks, hornbeams, and copper beeches.

The Garden of the Château de Talmay also has a beautiful display of peonies, irises, and roses in its alleys. If you're looking for more information on these gardens or others in the area, be sure to check out the relevant articles for more details.

Haut-Rhin

Beautiful historic building with French flag and lush gardens under a blue sky.
Credit: pexels.com, Beautiful historic building with French flag and lush gardens under a blue sky.

Haut-Rhin is home to some truly breathtaking gardens, each with its own unique charm. The Parc de la Marseillaise in Guebwiller is a public arboretum and botanical garden, designed by Édouard André between 1897 and 1899.

This garden is a must-visit for anyone who loves nature and architecture. The Parc de Wesserling in Husseren-Wesserling is a private garden located at the site of a hunting lodge of the prince-abbey of Murbach, dating back to 1699.

The Parc de Wesserling features a formal French garden, as well as a flower garden, kitchen garden, field garden, and contemporary garden. For a more modern take on botanical gardens, head to the Parc Zoologique et Botanique de Mulhouse, a 25-hectare public botanical garden and zoo with an English landscape park.

If you're looking for something a bit more unique, the Park Alfred Wallach in Riedisheim is a hidden gem created in 1935 by Paris landscape architect Achille Duchêne. The park features stairways connecting its different parts and tree-shaded allées, making it a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Broaden your view: Public Rooftop and Garden

Beautiful view of a manicured French garden with a symmetrical design and fountain.
Credit: pexels.com, Beautiful view of a manicured French garden with a symmetrical design and fountain.

Here's a brief overview of the gardens in Haut-Rhin:

Chenonceau's Remarkable

Chenonceau's Remarkable Gardens are a must-see, with various themed areas that will leave you enchanted.

The gardens are divided into several areas, including a vegetable garden with an impressive collection of apple and pear trees, as well as a stunning rose garden.

You can also explore the park's circular maze, which is perfect for getting lost in nature.

The park's design is a mix of English and French styles, with a romantic pond and a structured garden, respectively.

Admission to the gardens is relatively affordable, with prices starting at €12 for children under 27 and €15 for adults over 27.

The gardens are open all summer from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and from August to December between 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Just be aware that the castle and gardens are closed between January and June, so plan your visit accordingly.

Côte d'Azur's 13

Bright orange dahlias in sunlit garden setting, capturing the essence of nature's beauty.
Credit: pexels.com, Bright orange dahlias in sunlit garden setting, capturing the essence of nature's beauty.

The Côte d'Azur is home to a staggering 13 "Remarkable Gardens" that showcase the region's rich gardening history and stunning natural beauty. These gardens are a must-visit for anyone interested in horticulture, architecture, or simply taking in the breathtaking views.

From the mountains to the seaside, these gardens are scattered across the region, each with its own unique character and charm. Many of them have been around for centuries, with some dating back to the 16th century.

The Jardin botanique de la Villa Thuret in Antibes is one of the region's oldest and most beautiful gardens, featuring a stunning collection of exotic plants and flowers. The Jardin exotique in Eze is another standout, with its dramatic hilltop location and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

You can also explore the gardens of the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, which were created in the early 20th century and feature a stunning collection of French and Italian gardens. The Parc du château de la Napoule in Mandelieu la Napoule is another must-visit, with its beautiful gardens and stunning views of the sea.

Credit: youtube.com, Slow Living in Côte d'Azur: Medieval Village Routine & Menton's Stunning Gardens

Here are the 13 "Remarkable Gardens" to visit on the Côte d'Azur:

  • Jardin botanique de la Villa Thuret, Antibes
  • Jardin du Vallon du Brec, Coursegoules
  • Jardin exotique, Eze
  • Jardin de la Villa Fort de France, Grasse
  • Jardin de l’Argelière, La Gaude
  • Parc du château de la Napoule, Mandelieu la Napoule
  • La citronneraie, Menton
  • Serre de la Madone, Menton
  • Jardin botanique exotique du Val Rahmeh, Menton
  • Arboretum Marcel Kroenlein, Roure
  • Parc Phoenix, Nice
  • Jardin botanique, Nice
  • Jardin Ephrussi de Rothschild, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Each of these gardens is a unique and unforgettable experience, and they're all within easy reach of the region's major towns and cities. So why not plan a visit and discover the beauty and magic of the Côte d'Azur's 13 "Remarkable Gardens" for yourself?

Lists and Awards

The "Remarkable Garden" label is a prestigious award given to gardens in France that meet certain criteria. To be eligible, a garden must be open to the public for at least 50 days a year, including 30 days between April and September.

The label also comes with some great perks, including a mention in communication documents distributed by the Ministry of Culture, and the possibility of obtaining specific road signage bearing the logo. This can be a big draw for tourists and locals alike.

Here are some of the advantages of the "Remarkable Garden" label:

  • A mention in communication documents distributed by the Ministry of Culture.
  • The possibility of obtaining specific road signage bearing the logo, following the same process as for buildings protected as historic monuments.
  • Authorisation to use the label and its logo on all communication and signage documents.
  • The possibility of being taken into account in the definition of local urban planning schemes (PLU)

A Cultivated Competition

Capture of Château de Chenonceau's Renaissance architecture and vibrant gardens in France
Credit: pexels.com, Capture of Château de Chenonceau's Renaissance architecture and vibrant gardens in France

The "Jardin Remarquable" label is a prestigious award that recognizes France's most remarkable gardens. Since its introduction in 2004, the label has been awarded to gardens that meet strict criteria, including integration into the site, quality of maintenance, and environmental standards.

The label is a state award that is renewed every five years, making it a coveted honor for garden owners. To be eligible, gardens must meet specific requirements, such as having a unique blend of vegetation and a high level of visitor welcome.

The "Jardin Remarquable" label is not just a recognition of a garden's beauty, but also a commitment to environmental sustainability. The label promotes eco-responsible gardening practices, making it a great resource for those looking to create their own sustainable gardens.

Here are the four prizes that will be awarded at the 2021 festival:

The festival also features a "coup de coeur" award, which will be given by each of the three juries. With over 10 exhibition gardens out of competition and various conferences and activities, the festival is a must-visit for anyone interested in gardening and sustainability.

Top 10 in France

A woman taking photographs on a picturesque garden bridge surrounded by lush greenery.
Credit: pexels.com, A woman taking photographs on a picturesque garden bridge surrounded by lush greenery.

I've always been fascinated by the diversity of French gardens, and I'm excited to share my top 10 picks with you.

Le Jardin Plume offers a unique blend of prairie planting and traditional French parterre gardens.

Monet's garden at Giverny is a must-see, especially for fans of his paintings.

Park Floral de la Source boasts some of the most magnificent herbaceous borders in France.

Les jardins suspendus de Marqueyssac is a garden unlike any other, with its intricately shaped box and stunning views of the Dordogne river.

Le Clos du Coudray features a series of themed gardens, including a shady garden with a dazzling display of hostas.

Jardin de Sericourt took home the top prize in the best park in France competition in 2005, and it's easy to see why.

Le Parc Oriental de Maulevrier is the largest Japanese garden in France, and its authenticity has been recognized by professors from Japanese universities.

Les Jardins de Sardy is a hidden gem, with its beautiful formal pond set below an old farmhouse and surrounded by a mix of English and Italian-style planting.

I highly recommend visiting Le Jardin Plume for its innovative take on traditional French gardens.

If this caught your attention, see: Indoor Japanese Rock Garden

Regional Focus

Credit: youtube.com, The overhanging gardens of Marqueyssac in France

The South of France is home to some of the most stunning gardens in the country, with many earning the prestigious label of Jardin remarquable.

In the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region, you'll find the Jardins de Salagon in Mane, which features five modern gardens surrounding a 12th-century priory. The château de Sauvan in Mane is another must-visit, with its 18th-century château and beautiful Garden à la française.

The Côte d'Or region boasts an impressive array of gardens, including the Mill of Athie, which features a large variety of trees, roses, peonies, and a pond of water lilies.

Here are some of the 13 Jardins remarquables on the Côte d'Azur:

  • Jardin botanique de la Villa Thuret, Antibes
  • Jardin du Vallon du Brec, Coursegoules
  • Jardin exotique, Eze
  • Jardin de la Villa Fort de France, Grasse
  • Jardin de l’Argelière, La Gaude
  • Parc du château de la Napoule, Mandelieu la Napoule
  • La citronneraie, Menton
  • Serre de la Madone, Menton
  • Jardin botanique exotique du Val Rahmeh, Menton
  • Arboretum Marcel Kroenlein, Roure
  • Parc Phoenix, Nice
  • Jardin botanique, Nice
  • Jardin Ephrussi de Rothschild, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Visit the South of France

The South of France is a treasure trove of beautiful gardens, each with its own unique character and charm. The label Jardin remarquable (Remarkable Garden) started in 2004 to celebrate and document France's magnificent gardens, and the region is proud to boast 13 of these incredible gardens.

Credit: youtube.com, Wonders of France | The Most Amazing Places in South of France | Travel Video 4K

You can visit the Jardin botanique de la Villa Thuret in Antibes, which is a haven for plant enthusiasts, or head to the Exotic Garden in Eze, perched on a hilltop with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

The Côte d'Azur has a rich history of gardening, dating back to 1546 when Franciscan monks created a chessboard garden at the Monastery of Cimiez in Nice. This garden is still open to visitors today, and it's a testament to the region's enduring love of gardening.

If you're looking for a more modern take on gardening, be sure to check out the gardens at the Fondation Maeght museum in St-Paul de Vence, which was designed by Joan Miró in 1964.

Here are 13 of the Côte d'Azur's most remarkable gardens, each with its own unique character and charm:

  • Jardin botanique de la Villa Thuret, Antibes
  • Jardin du Vallon du Brec, Coursegoules
  • Jardin exotique, Eze
  • Jardin de la Villa Fort de France, Grasse
  • Jardin de l’Argelière, La Gaude
  • Parc du château de la Napoule, Mandelieu la Napoule
  • La citronneraie, Menton
  • Serre de la Madone, Menton
  • Jardin botanique exotique du Val Rahmeh, Menton
  • Arboretum Marcel Kroenlein, Roure
  • Parc Phoenix, Nice
  • Jardin botanique, Nice
  • Jardin Ephrussi de Rothschild, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

The Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region is also home to some incredible gardens, including the Jardins de Salagon in Mane, which features five modern gardens surrounding a 12th-century priory.

Calvados

Majestic Château de Chenonceau in France with blooming gardens during a sunny spring day.
Credit: pexels.com, Majestic Château de Chenonceau in France with blooming gardens during a sunny spring day.

Calvados is a region in Normandy, France, known for its picturesque villages and historic sites. One of the highlights of Calvados is its beautiful gardens, which are a must-visit for anyone interested in horticulture or simply looking for a peaceful escape.

Cambremer, a charming village in the Pays d'Auge, boasts stunning gardens that are a perfect example of Normandy's gardening heritage. The gardens of the Château de Brécy in Saint-Gabriel-Brécy are another notable attraction, featuring beautifully manicured lawns and vibrant floral displays.

If you're interested in exploring the region's historic sites, Mézidon-Canon is home to the impressive Canon, a 12th-century castle that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Plantbessin, a quaint village near Castillon, is also worth a visit for its charming architecture and picturesque streets.

Here are some of the top gardens to visit in Calvados:

  • Cambremer – Gardens of the Pays d'Auge
  • Castillon – Plantbessin
  • Mézidon-Canon – Canon
  • Ouilly-le-Vicomte – Boutemont
  • Saint-Gabriel-Brécy – Gardens of the Château de Brécy
  • Vendeuvre – Gardens of the Château de Vendeuvre

Selection for Visitors

The Côte d'Azur has a vast array of gardens open to visitors, each with its own unique style and charm.

Catherine Palace with ornate facade and lush gardens in Saint Petersburg, Russia, seen on a sunny day.
Credit: pexels.com, Catherine Palace with ornate facade and lush gardens in Saint Petersburg, Russia, seen on a sunny day.

You can find secret gardens tucked away in hotel grounds, like Nice's Hotel Windsor, which boasts giant bamboo and fig trees.

From stately homes and châteaux like American Henry Clews' gardens at Château de la Napoule, to private gardens like L'Argelière in La Gaude, there's something for every taste.

The International Perfumery Museum in Mouans-Sartoux offers a sensory extravaganza in Pays de Grasse perfume country, with gardens that are a must-see for perfume enthusiasts.

The five-hectare Fontmerle Pond near Mougins is home to an astonishing lotus flower collection, making it a quirky and fascinating garden to visit.

Whether you're interested in roses, tropical plants, or perfume, the Côte d'Azur has a garden that's sure to delight.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the oldest garden in France?

The Montpellier Botanical Garden is the oldest in France, dating back to 1593. It was founded by Pierre Richer de Belleval to cultivate medicinal plants for health benefits.

Where is the classic French garden?

The classic French garden is epitomized by the Gardens of Versailles, a 17th-century masterpiece designed by André Le Nôtre for Louis XIV. This iconic garden is considered the gold standard of French landscape design.

Roger Molenaar

Senior Writer

Roger Molenaar is a writer who loves to explore the world and write about his experiences. He has been traveling for years, having visited over 50 countries around the globe. His passion for learning about different cultures and meeting new people is evident in his writing, which often features insights into local customs and traditions.

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