Jardin Exotique de Monaco

The Jardin Exotique de Monaco is a fabulously mature exotic garden which grows along the edge of a cliff overlooking the bay of Monaco. Not only do you see hundreds of cacti and Mediterranean plants of a size you will rarely if ever have seen before but the view over Monaco and the French and Italian Riviera are simply stunning.

The exotic garden was started in 1933 but many of the cacti and succulents come from a collection which was started in 1895. The maturity of the plants on display is therefore a key feature of this garden which contains more than 1000 species of cacti and succulents.

The garden covers 3 acres and as it is on the edge of a cliff it is quite steep. The plants have been incorporated into the rock of the cliff in a way that looks completely natural and with time and age they have grown and spread to incredible sizes. You will recognise many plants that you have in a small pot at home and are the size of a tree here.

At the top plateau of the garden there is a panoramic view including the Rock of Monaco, the Port of Monaco and Monte Carlo. The view extends as far as Italy.

The exotic garden of Monaco. See more pictures of the Jardin Exotique de Monaco

When you have finished your tour of the garden there is a large cavern that you can visit. The cavern is at the bottom of the garden, down a lot of steps and is full of stalactites and stalagmites. There is also an anthropology museum with archaeological remains found in the Principality and nearby.

If you have been inspired to start your own exotic garden there are succulents and cacti available to buy in the garden, as well as drinks and snacks.

Gardening Guide:

The garden is open every day except 19 November (National Holiday) and 25 December.

15 May to 15 Sept: 9am to 7pm

16 Sept to 14 May: 9am to 6pm

Address:

Jardin Exotique de Monaco

62 Boulevard du Jardin Exotique

B.P.105 MC 98002, Monaco

Tel: +377 93 15 29 80

http://www.jardin-exotique.mc/visiter_eng.htm