Incredible parks and gardens
Looking for nature and serenity?
From majestic palms to fragrant Mediterranean plants, the gardens of Nice invite you to stroll and escape. Whether you're a horticultural enthusiast or simply in search of greenery, here's our selection of natural spaces to discover during your stay. Open your eyes wide: we're off to discover the incredible gardens of the Côte d'Azur, accessible from your hotel in Nice.
Phoenix Park
There's no need to take the car to discover this 7,000 m² park. In this green paradise at the entrance to the city, you can admire over 2,500 species of plants and animals. With its 25-metre-high greenhouse, this magical place boasts an incredible collection of tropical plants.
The unmissable Villa Ephrussi garden
Everyone in Nice knows it: it's one of the jewels of the Côte d'Azur landscape, and you won't want to miss it under any circumstances. It's the Villa Ephrussi, owned by the Rothschild family, in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Not one, but nine gardens have been richly and carefully designed according to precise themes. Pleasures for the eye as well as for the sense of smell: you'll discover scents from elsewhere and a simply splendid rose garden.
Eze and its three cornices
A coastline of shaded beaches, a sanctuary for art and gastronomy, and a picturesque medieval village. At the summit, 429 meters above sea level, the exotic garden offers a breathtaking view, suspended between sky and sea, of one of the world's most breathtaking panoramas. Exotic plants abound on the small hill, including magnificent cacti. You'll also come across numerous sculptures, refined and poetic touches that will punctuate your stroll. To fully appreciate the charms of this place, we strongly recommend that you spend at least one afternoon here.
The gardens of the Cimiez Arena
Legend has it that the district of Cimiez takes its name from the extraordinary height of the trees that grew on the hill, their tops reaching up to the sky. Facing the monastery, this beautiful garden is made up of thousands of centuries-old olive trees. Its open lawns make it an ideal spot for a stroll or picnic. You'll also find the Matisse Museum: the perfect place to combine nature and culture.
Gardens of the Cimiez Monastery
An extension of the Cimiez monastery, this vast 9,550 m² garden boasts sumptuous views over the Mediterranean and the city of Nice. It is the oldest garden on the Côte d'Azur: the monks used it as a vegetable garden. Inspired by Italian gardens, it has retained its original layout since 1546. History and beauty unfold, as in the dazzling rose garden.
The Botanical Garden
Located on the Corniche Fleurie, Nice's botanical garden is a veritable open-air museum. It is dedicated to the conservation of biodiversity and the transmission of natural heritage. Its 3,000 species are spread across 40 zones, each one a natural environment. You can also admire the view over the mouth of the Var and the Baie des Anges.
Eco Valley Park
Located to the west of Nice, the Parc de l'Eco Vallée is built on the city's former horticultural nursery. Over an area of more than one hectare, you'll find almost 500 trees, dwarf palms, holm oaks and Canary Island date palms: escape guaranteed!
Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the educational trails are perfect for a jog or a rejuvenating stroll.
Mont Boron Forest Park
Perched on the hill of the same name, the 57-hectare Parc Forestier du Mont Boron separates Nice and Villefranche. Stroll along the 11 km of trails: among Aleppo pines, holm oaks, wild olive trees and numerous other endemic species. Some plants are rare and protected, such as the camellia or the nivéole. At the heart of the park, you'll also find the imposing Fort du Mont Alban, listed as a Monument Historique. As for the splendid view, it stretches from Italy to the Estérel...
