Jardin des Plantes

The Jardin des Plantes, located on the south bank of Rouen, is a free green space covering 20 acres right in the heart of the city. Both a place to relax and learn, this park, which dates back to 1840, has been recognised "Jardin Botanique de France et des Pays Francophones" (Botanical Garden of France and French-speaking countries) for its significant collection of species from all over the world. You will be able to admire, in particular, collections of irises, dahlias, fuchsias, aromatic and medicinal herbs as well as a collection of Asian species. Architecture lovers will appreciate the 17th century pavilion, its orangery, its aviary and its splendid tropical greenhouses.

Here we were, setting off to explore the Jardin des Plantes, a real green lung in the heart of the city! We entered through the main entrance, wow! A splendid gate invites us to step in. We were welcomed by two Asian statues, which look like lions. This park is definitely guarded like a treasure...

In front of us, there were large expanses of grass and several paths, we decided to go straight on towards the water basins. These water features cool keep the atmosphere cool and we leant over to admire the pretty pink waterlilies and other aquatic plants. Some little curious creatures are also part of the visit! A tree frog, a bee and big lizard hover over the basins. As we approached, we noticed these animals were made of plants. It added an enchanting and magical touch to our visit…

We walked through the various flower beds around the circular basin. One of them is actually a maze designed with roses, it is stunning. We were immersed in colours and the comforting scent of roses. We walked in small enclosed gardens that invited us to daydream surrounded by magnificent species. We took time to sit down on one of the numerous benches available, and made the most of this time in the shade of the trees. The atmosphere of this garden was very friendly and provided us with a relaxing time.

As we wandered around, we discovered species from all over the world and we were curious to learn their names thanks to identification labels. A little bit further away, a small medicinal garden is concealed behind hedges. There, the plants reveal their secrets and we learnt more about their use and effects.

We were also surprised by the contemporary works of art that are scattered throughout the park... In this setting that mostly contains architectural elements from the 19th century, these artworks and sculptures give a modern twist to the place, creating a truly original garden. Lulled by birdsongs, we walked along the footpaths in the heart of nature, which surrounds us like a homely cocoon. Everywhere, green and shaded areas invite us to rest, read and make the most of the present. We sat down at a picnic table and had lunch in the sun. What a beautiful day! A little bit further away, close to the children playground, we were easily tempted by a refreshing ice cream…