Les Jardins d'Angélique

Only 13 km away from Rouen, in Seine-Maritime, the Jardins d’Angélique consist in reality in two gardens that flank a 17th century house. Covering less than 2.5 acres, explore an English-landscape garden with romantic paths and a more formal one with neat lines, thus offering two distinct and original visits. The Jardins d'Angélique, a true two-in-one experience!

The Jardins d’Angélique are among those places where you feel shut off from the outside world. The first impression I had when I arrived in this garden was a feeling of total well-being. I felt like in a familiar and reassuring cocoon, as if I had already been there and knew all its secrets. I walked up a long path, a tree avenue, with trees so tall that I couldn't see the sky. At the end of the path I arrived in front of a beautiful 17th century building whose bright white facade contrasted with the green of the lawn. At the foot of the manor house, pure white roses. The setting was absolutely magnificent and I stood amazed at this sight for a moment. Apparently there are two gardens to visit, and I decided to start with the one in front of me. It is surrounded by high hedges making it impossible to see it from the outside. Wrought-iron arches provide openings and I slipped in this green setting… If I had to describe what I felt at that moment, I would say enchantment. I felt as if I had discovered a treasure. This garden reminded me of fairy tales, I stepped back into childhood. In a shaded corner, there were chairs and a table. I would gladly sit and enjoy a cup of tea there…

The winding paths are lined with luxuriant, elegant and delicate borders. I was wandering around this romantic landscape when I heard the gentle sound of water. I walked along the stream of water that guided me through the garden. I experienced pure happiness during this magical visit. Splendid wrought-iron benches are placed along the paths and I enjoyed sitting there to take in the landscape and the sounds of nature. Throughout the garden, there are statues representing young women. Could it be the representation of Angélique to whom the garden is dedicated? At the back the garden, a small pond is accessorized with a mirror. I was surprised and curious about this display, which, to me, added even more poetry to my experience. As I walked out of the garden, I was almost dazzled by the sun and I had this pleasant feeling of waking up from a dream…

The entrance to the second garden is also quite surprising. Indeed, there are tools and gardening boots hanging on the wall and covered in white paint. This entrance looks welcoming and little eccentric, I love it! It contrasts completely with the design of this second garden… There, I saw a very geometric and precise design. The lines are straight, perpendicular and the shapes are symmetric. It reminded me of a French formal garden. Just like in the first garden, I saw little statues, but also a majestic fountain depicting lions. Between the perfectly clipped topiaries and the magnificent white roses, I sat on a wrought-iron chair and I fell into a reverie lulled by the sound of water…