5 Things To Know About The Extraordinary Garden In Nantes
If you are looking for an idea for a stroll in the Nantes metropolis, know that the banks of the Loire River are home to an extraordinary garden inspired by the world of Jules Verne. Here are 5 things to know about the Extraordinary Garden in Nantes.
1- He occupies a former quarry.
The Extraordinary Garden, whose name is inspired by the universe of Jules Verne, was created in the Nantes metropolitan area in 2019. This public park, whose entrance is free, is located in the Miséry quarry, a former granite quarry facing the Loire River.
This garden is located at 1 Quai Marquis d'Aiguillon in Nantes. Since October 2020, it has been possible to reach the park directly from Square Schwob, using a steel staircase along the cliff designed by François Delarozière.
It is open every day from 9am to 7:30pm in summer. But be careful: opening hours vary depending on the seasons.
The second half of the quarry had originally been reserved for the Tree of Herons. But this monumental metal structure, which was supposed to house mechanical creatures, will not see the light of day after all.
The abandonment of this project by Nantes Métropole frees up space where the public park is expected to expand. Not only will this garden now occupy the entire Miséry quarry, but the metropolitan area also plans to create a river there. Making it even more "extraordinary"!
2- It offers lush vegetation in the heart of the city.
The extraordinary garden of Nantes is aptly named as it offers visitors a change of scenery worthy of a Jules Verne novel!
No less than 25,000 specimens of 200 different plant species have been planted there to create a tropical atmosphere, including banana trees and exuberant tree ferns with lush foliage.
The species have been chosen for the extraordinary size of their leaves, in order to immerse the visitor in another world and give them the sensation of being tiny in front of giant plants...
With its majestic trees, aquatic plants, and lush foliage, this public park has the unexpected charm of an exotic garden on the banks of the Loire.
3- It houses a spectacular waterfall.
Even though the vegetation alone is worth a visit, the highlight that attracts many walkers in the Extraordinary Garden of Nantes is a 25-meter high artificial waterfall.
In this green setting renowned for its floral diversity, the waterfall is the must-see attraction. The water rushing down from the top of the cliff offers both a breathtaking spectacle and a refreshing atmosphere to the walkers.
If you want to capture this very photogenic site, know that the best time to discover and photograph the waterfall is in the late afternoon, when the sunset illuminates the water with a thousand reflections.
4- It offers a conducive environment for relaxation.
The extraordinary garden of Nantes is a highly sought-after place for both residents and tourists due to its relaxing environment. It should also be noted that this garden is accessible to people with reduced mobility, but it is forbidden to bring dogs, even on a leash.
Small paths and bridges have been set up to facilitate strolling in this green setting, perfect for recharging during lunch breaks or for a romantic walk with a loved one.
With its lush vegetation and the soothing sound of its waterfall, this park invites visitors to relax, especially since benches have been strategically placed near the majestic waterfall.
5- The walk continues to the 7 viewpoints.
After enjoying the show and the soothing murmur of the waterfall, you can extend your walk by taking the promenade of the 7 viewpoints.
This route has been built overlooking the garden, from rue de l'Hermitage to the Lusançay staircase. It starts with the Belvédère de l'Hermitage, designed by Tadashi Kawamata.
As its name suggests, it is dotted with seven viewpoints that offer privileged views of the garden and the Loire River.
