Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild Photo by Anthony Lanneretonne for the March/April 2024 MFCH Magazine
Spring is just around the corner in the south of France! Perhaps the most exciting time of the year for garden lovers, the French Riviera will soon unveil a stunning burst of fragrant blooms amidst its glistening coastlines and sun-kissed landscapes.
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This April, we are thrilled to be taking a trip down to the Côte d’Azur to experience some of the most incredible public and private gardens on the coast at the height of their full spring glory. Read on for a virtual tour through five of the Riviera’s most beautiful public gardens, each offering a unique blend of history and artistry through nature.
If you prefer to see some of these gardens for yourself, consider joining us on a real tour this spring! Led by expert guide, art historian and botanical connoisseur, Amy Kupec Larue, our trip will reveal even more enchanting destinations off the beaten path. Learn more.
Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild
Perched on the exquisite Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild stands as a beacon of feminine elegance and horticultural splendor. Commissioned by the inspiring baroness Béatrice de Rothschild in the early 20th century, this Venetian-style palace is surrounded by nine themed gardens, each showcasing the French socialite’s eclectic tastes and passion for botany.
The French Garden, with its musical fountains and harmonious symmetry designed in the shape of a ship’s deck, serves as the centerpiece. Wandering through the Spanish Garden, terracotta tiles and lush tropical greenery create an air of Mediterranean warmth. The exotic Jungle Garden transports you to another world with its monstrous succulents and cacti. As you meander through the Rose Garden, the intoxicating scent of blooming roses in summer captivates the senses, while the Japanese Garden offers a serene retreat with its koi ponds and stone lanterns.
The Exotic Garden of Èze
High above the glittering Mediterranean Sea, the village of Èze is crowned by a botanical treasure that defies the imagination. The Exotic Garden of Èze, or Jardin Exotique, is a paradise of cacti, succulents, and rare plants, set against the dramatic backdrop of panoramic sea views.
Originally conceived in the 1940s, the garden flourishes on the rocky slopes of the village, its terraces brimming with an astonishing variety of flora from regions around the world. On the south side, where there is more sun exposure, you’ll find stunning desert plants while the shadier north side features Mediterranean species. Dotted throughout the winding paths are artistic sculptures by Jean-Philippe Richard as well as a few lounge chairs to relax and soak in the surroundings. At the summit, the Garden’s lookout point offers an unparalleled vista.
Jardin de la Serre de la Madone
A short distance from the bustling town of Menton lies a haven of horticultural excellence. Created in the 1920s by the esteemed garden designer Lawrence Johnston, the Jardin de la Serre de la Madone is a masterclass in landscape design, blending rare plants and a worldly artistic vision.
A cypress-lined road leads to the property where the garden’s terraced slopes are home to an array of exotic species, from Himalayan tropical oak to Nolina plants from Mexico. The ochre bastide at the crown of the garden is shrouded with a wisteria roof and accented with a mandarin courtyard. The garden, classified as a Historical Monument, is a veritable living museum of botanical wonders.
The Gardens at the Fondation Maeght
Just outside the picturesque cobblestone village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the Fondation Maeght is a sanctuary for modern art and natural beauty. While the foundation is renowned for its extensive collection of 20th-century art, its gardens are equally captivating, offering a serene and contemplative space that complements the surrounding artworks.
Designed in harmony with the Provençal landscape, the gardens feature sculptures by renowned artists such as Joan Miró, Ossip Zadkine, and Alexander Calder. The interplay between art and nature creates a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere, where each turn reveals a new perspective and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of both.
The MIP Gardens in Mouans-Sartoux
Tucked away in the charming village of Mouans-Sartoux, not far from the perfume capital of Grasse, the MIP Gardens, or Gardens of the International Perfume Museum, are a fragrant homage to the region’s rich history of perfume making. Established in 2003, these gardens celebrate the plants and flowers that have been used for centuries in the creation of iconic fragrances.
Spread over two hectares, the gardens are divided into three sections: the olfactory route, the conservatory, and the picnic area. The interactive olfactory path allows visitors to explore fragrance notes through scented plants, hands-on experiences, and a video guide featuring insights from industry experts. The conservatory recreates historic perfume flower fields, showcasing the evolution of Grasse’s perfume specialties. And of course, the picnic area offers a respite for visitors to take it all in beneath calming cypress trees.
Join our April Tour!
As spring breathes new life into the French Riviera, we are delighted to be taking it all in with our tour guests. Whether you are a seasoned horticulturist, an artist seeking inspiration, or simply a lover of nature’s beauty, this journey through iconic landscapes and private gardens of our personal contacts promises to be an unforgettable experience.
We only have a few spots left! Learn more about the Gardens of the French Riviera Tour HERE.