The French Riviera is very rich when it comes to exceptional gardens. Thanks to its mild climate and the presence of the Mediterranean Sea, flowers, trees and exotic plants are flourishing everywhere between Sanremo in Italy and Saint Tropez in France. You can enjoy a huge variety of gorgeous gardens that are open to the public, from flower gardens in the English style to the very sophisticated gardens of Madame Rothschild in Cap Ferrat. Here are a couple of inspirations:
Hanbury Gardens, Ventimiglia: On the Italian Riviera between Menton and Ventimiglia you can find a real gem. Built in the 19th century by the British botanist and philanthropist Sir Thomas Hanbury, this garden ranks among the most beautiful gardens in Italy. It does not only offer a gorgeous vegetation, but also breathtaking views over the Mediterranean.
Villa Thuret, Antibes: This garden on Cap d’Antibes is very much a collector’s garden. It features 1600 different species of trees and shrubs plus a beautiful water garden. The French writer George Sand once said that the Thuret garden was the most beautiful she had ever seen.
Val Rameh, Menton: Get enchanted in this amazing Botanical and Exotic Garden. It presents flowers and plants from all over the world and is the perfect oasis to relax facing the Sea.
Cimiez Monastery Gardens, Nice: This garden is one of the oldest gardens in Nice. It dates back to the 16th century and was originally the garden of Franciscan monks. Today is open to the public and boasts a remarkable variety of flowers and especially a beautiful rose garden of more than 20 species. No entrance fee requested.
Villa Ephrussi Rothschild, Cap Ferrat: The 9 thematic gardens that surround this sumptuous villa are definitely THE highlight among the gardens in the South of France. You will find flowers blooming here throughout the whole year. Musical fountains, stunning views into the Bay of Villefranche and the Bay of Beaulieu and plants and flowers as far as the eye can catch. In short … this is paradise on Earth!
