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 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]
Are you familiar with the history of the peach walls? Here’s why this site is designated a Remarkable Garden.
In this commune east of Paris, a remarkable garden hides away, a vestige of the city’s agricultural past. We tell you the story of Montreuil’s Peach Walls. [Read more]
Seine-et-Marne: this Royal Garden, listed as a Remarkable Garden, unfolds its sublime rhododendrons with free admission
In Seine-et-Marne, the gardens of the Château de Fontainebleau are in full bloom this spring 2026, showcasing their rhododendron beds. A 130-hectare royal park, listed as a Remarkable Garden, free to enter—you can run, you can dash around (and you can picnic). [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]
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 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]
Essonne: a château with remarkable gardens you absolutely must discover to go green
The Domaine de Courson, a château classified as a Historic Monument and a park labelled Jardin Remarquable in Courson-Monteloup, Essonne, opens its doors to visitors until November 1. Now is the time to discover its sublime green spaces and, perhaps, delve into the castle’s history through a guided tour. [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]
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]
This little-known house in Île-de-France, labeled as regional heritage, also features a remarkable garden.
This Île-de-France house, awarded the Regional Heritage of Interest label, hides an astonishing rural past and, through its preserved architecture, narrates a part of the history of the French Vexin. [Read more]
