Menton, from parks to gardens

Published on July 16, 2024 at 4:00 pm

[Menton (https://www.menton-riviera-merveilles.fr/?utm_source=easyvoyage), the French lemon capital, is a seaside resort renowned for its temperate climate. Thanks to this favourable weather, the vegetation is almost tropical under Menton's blue skies! Indeed, the parks and gardens here rival each other in beauty, and the botanical wonders are awe-inspiring. What's more, the tour changes with the seasons. So don't hesitate, come and take a stroll through the terraced gardens and other palm-fringed parks - you'll be back for sure!

Vegetation surrounds Menton's colorful roofs and facades

Summary

A bit of botanical history in Menton
A festival of gardens in Menton
Where to stay near Menton's parks and gardens?

A bit of botanical history in Menton

The history of Menton and its gardens goes back to the 18th century!

Back then, a number of English botanists introduced tropical and subtropical plants. From then on, thanks to the city's unique microclimate, the plants adapted easily.

Later on, gardens were planted all over the town. Today, some of them can be visited (see below), while others are only open a few days a year.

You can discover and admire this unique heritage at your leisure, or take a guided tour. The latter are organised by the Menton tourist office.

Biovès green space in central Menton

A festival of gardens in Menton

🌷 The city is home to several parks and gardens, so plan your visit in advance. That way you won't miss any of them!

The Maria-Serena garden boasts a fine collection of palm trees. As well as the garden, admire the view over the town of Menton. Admission charge, booking essential from the tourist office website.
The Val Rahmeh garden is also located in the Garavan district. Owned by the French government (via the Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de Paris), this garden boasts an exceptional collection of citrus fruits and tropical plants. Don't miss the lotus pond. Admission charge.
The garden of the Palais de Carnolès is a public garden. It is entirely dedicated to the cultivation and preservation of citrus fruit. It's unique in France!

Free admission.

The Fontana Rosa garden, listed as a Historic Monument. This garden, also known as the Jardin des Romanciers, is an invitation to escape, and the brightly coloured park is a feast for the eyes! Admission charge, advance booking essential.

The calm of a water feature in a Menton garden

Finally, if you're coming to discover Menton's superb parks and gardens in winter, don't miss the Lemon Festival!

Every year, for 15 days in February, Menton celebrates its treasures! Lemons and other citrus fruits are the pride of the town.

For a fortnight, there are parades, concerts and other events, all linked to the city's yellow gold, the Menton lemon!

Lemon tree with its many fruits in Menton

Where to stay near Menton's parks and gardens?

⭐ The Hotel Napoléon is located directly on Menton's seafront, offering a remarkable view of the Mediterranean Sea.

🛌 With this in mind, in order to make the most of this view, some rooms have a balcony. In addition, some family rooms are suitable for parents with children.

The modern rooms offer a sophisticated style inspired by the work of Jean Cocteau. The atmosphere is bright and colourful!

🏊 What's more, you'll also find a bar and a beautiful swimming pool where you can bask in the sunshine.

🚗 Last but not least, you'll also have access to paid parking.

Hotel Napoléon

The Hotel Napoléon is located directly on Menton's seafront, offering a remarkable view of the Mediterranean Sea.

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Practical information

⏰ When should you come and recharge your batteries in Menton's fabulous gardens?

Menton, the famous seaside resort, is a major holiday destination, attracting visitors all year round.

However, it is in spring and summer that the gardens are at their most resplendent. Autumn is also a good time for certain plants to bloom.

In winter, citrus fruits take over with their dazzling colours and the Lemon Festival brings the town to life.

🚌 How do I get to Menton?

🚘 By road, several major routes serve Menton, the last town in the Alpes-Maritimes before Italy. The A8 motorway remains the main route linking Nice to Italy, with an exit for Menton.

🚈 If you choose to travel by train, the SNCF provides several connections from Paris. In fact, from the capital, the route takes over 8 hours 30 minutes to Menton.

✈️ The town is also linked to the capital by air. Nice Côte d'Azur airport is just a few kilometres from Menton.

Once in the heart of the city, use Zest the French Riviera Community's transport network.

🚗 Where can I park near Menton's parks and gardens?

There is a charge for parking in Menton, particularly in summer. Most of the gardens listed here have adjoining car parks.

Try to come early to find a parking space.

by Editorial Team

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