Historic monuments, museums recognized by France, homes of notable figures... In France, there’s a fondness for official labels. They help highlight significant sites, protect them, and ensure their preservation over time. These recognitions span many areas of culture and heritage! And they even extend to parks and gardens.
Since 2004, the "Remarkable Garden" label has been awarded as a mark of excellence to gardens and parks that demonstrate a significant cultural, aesthetic, historical, or botanical significance. There are now over 460 sites officially designated as "Remarkable Gardens" across France, including more than 40 located in Île-de-France.
But what exactly defines these sites? Why do they earn this special designation? To be designated as Jardins Remarquables, these gardens must meet several criteria: they need to be open to the public for at least 40 days each year, provide a high-quality visitor experience, and be properly maintained in accordance with environmental standards. Additionally, they should showcase historical significance, hold botanical interest, and feature notable elements such as water features, unique plant structures, or sculptures. The certification is awarded by the Ministry of Culture and is valid for five years, with the possibility of renewal.
The Remarkable Gardens can vary greatly from one to another. The list includes, for example, rosary gardens, arboretums (specialized botanical gardens), parks associated with historic castles, museums, or vegetable gardens...
These gardens can be either private or public, but they must be accessible to visitors. Owners are responsible for maintaining the grounds regularly and providing maps and informational materials, ensuring that as many people as possible can enjoy this part of France’s natural heritage.
The designation is awarded for a renewable five-year term: the list of Remarkable Gardens is updated regularly. Some sites retain their titles, others lose them, and a few finally join the club. For nature lovers and walkers, it’s an excellent opportunity to explore new, exceptional spots in Paris and the Île-de-France region.
The Domaine de Chamarande, Essonne's largest public garden, for a day in the fresh air
The Domaine de Chamarande is one of the most beautiful gardens in Essonne, and only an hour's ride by public transport, or just as much by car. Located in the town whose name it bears, we'll take you on a stroll to discover it. [Read more]
The Château and estate of Courances and its superb gardens
The Domaine et Château de Courances, located in the Gâtinais region of Essonne (91), is a wonderful place to discover. Classified as a Historic Monument and Remarkable Garden, this site welcomes you every weekend and public holiday from April to early November. We take you on a tour of this verdant haven of peace. [Read more]
Photos of the Château de Breteuil, its sublime gardens, stories and events
Château de Breteuil, at Choisel in the Chevreuse Valley, is a must-see castle in the Yvelines region. A jewel of the 18th century, the château boasts sublime gardens to discover: a remarkable garden, century-old trees and a labyrinth await you. It also offers young and old alike the chance to plunge into the heart of Perrault's fairy tales. [Read more]
In Île-de-France, this Renaissance-era château conceals an official listed Italian-style garden
Located in the Île-de-France region, this castle stands as a stunning Renaissance masterpiece featuring a breathtaking terraced Italian garden. Recognized and designated as a "Remarkable Garden," it’s a true gem of the Val d'Oise. Join us as we explore this hidden treasure. [Read more]
The Jardin des Serres d'Auteuil, an exotic haven of peace with plants from all over the world
For a moment of peace and quiet in the heart of Paris's 16th arrondissement, come and admire the magnificent species of plants from elsewhere, in the Jardin des Serres d'Auteuil. Large greenhouses, palm trees and magnificent flowerbeds await you! [Read more]
The Paris Arboretum, a remarkable garden of a thousand tree species in the Bois de Vincennes
Route de la Pyramide, just east of the Bois de Vincennes, the Arboretum de Paris is a bucolic garden, a green bubble where you can discover over 650 different tree species. [Read more]
The Roseraie du Val-de-Marne at l'Haÿ-les-Roses, the world's first rose garden
Looking for the most beautiful rose garden around Paris? We'll take you to L'Haÿ-les-Roses in the Val-de-Marne to discover the world's first rose garden, created in 1894! Both a conservatory of plant collections and a Jardin Remarquable, this rose garden, open from May to September, is sure to delight your eyes. [Read more]
The Château de Saint-Jean de Beauregard and its Remarkable Garden
The Château de Saint-Jean de Beauregard, located in Essonne in the Parc Naturel Régional de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse, is a remarkably well-preserved 19th-century château classified as a historic monument. Visitors flock here to discover the grounds, and in particular the Potager, which has been awarded the Jardin Remarquable label. [Read more]
The superb Japanese garden at Château de Courances: a bucolic and exotic stroll in the Paris region
The Japanese garden at Château de Courances is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful Japanese gardens around Paris, and particularly so in France. Located on the fabulous Courances estate in Essonne, this Anglo-Japanese garden will delight you with its exotic landscapes. Come and discover it from April 5 to November 2, 2025. [Read more]
The fruit garden at Château de la Roche-Guyon (95), a remarkable garden for a country stroll
At the foot of the troglodyte château of La Roche-Guyon, in the Val-d'Oise département, nestles a large vegetable and fruit garden, designated a Remarkable Garden. [Read more]
