Ironically, reserved relaxation time facilitates better devotion toward work; we all need time to decompress, allowing us to recharge and refocus energies better moving forward. It’s why we take vacations.
Some meditate, read, and spend time with family in order to summons relaxation. Those in Nice, France, whether there permanently or visiting, enjoy the plethora of botanical gardens draped throughout the city’s landscape.
Medical experts observe dedicating as little as one half hour per day toward some form of exercise can greatly benefit one’s ongoing health. While indoor health facilities endorse good habits, those who love the outdoors doubly benefit themselves, engaging in regular strolls throughout Nice’s following gardens.
Parc du Chateau
Those enjoying a nice exercise to the peak enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of Nice atop Parc du Chateau. The park, echoing the name of the chateau founded on the site but destroyed, features a waterfall, medieval building remnants, and a facility for entertaining children. The park is free to locals and visitors; however, those wanting to leave cars behind have a serious walk ahead of them, or they may take a lift to the top for a small fee. Hours vary by season, but the grounds are open daily from mid-morning to late afternoon/early evening.
Jardins Albert 1ER
One of the oldest and most frequented gardens in the city, Jardins Albert 1ER grants free access for city natives and visitors. The park features rolling fields of finely knit lawns, exotic palm trees, ornate fountains, and a bandstand hosting a range of musical acts. The park is open daily, a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Curl up with a book, take a stroll, or plan a picnic with its confines.
Jardin D’Eden
From ground level you can look near and far within the boundaries of Nice, but you won’t find the garden until you look up. It’s cast away, atop the roof of one of the city’s art galleries. Unfortunately, the garden is part of the gallery, and the latter’s access is mandatory in order to enjoy the best sights of Nice. The gallery is open Wednesday through Mondays from 10 am to 6 pm with prices of admission varying.
Parc Phoenix
For an entrance fee of 2 euros (children enter free), you’ll gain access to peaceful, aesthetically pleasing botanical gardens. It’s open 9:30 am to 7:30pm Monday-Sunday, hosting impressive foliage and exotic animals, such as owls, parrots, wallabies, aquariums of fish, and more. This particular park is a magnet for families with younger children, as the multitudes of animals make for hours of entertainment and learning.
Jardin Botanique
Nestled in Corniche Fleurie, the botanical gardens roll over 7 acres, hosting countless Mediterranean foliage on free display throughout the year. The gardens attract many hobbyists who meticulously note the hundreds of various plant and flower life found native to France as well as other parts of the world. The quarters are open from 6 pm in the winter season and an hour later in spring and summer.
Arenes et Jardins de Cimiez
Within one of Nice’s wealthier districts rests the Arenes et Jardins de Cimiez with its breathtaking gardens, olive groves, monastery grounds, and Roman amphitheater. While a trip through gardens is a priceless affair, the grounds are free, open to the public except during special events. Locals and excited visitors enter the gates from 8 am to 7 pm daily.
Simon Dance enjoys passing on his travel tips and insights through blogging. For more accommodation options whilst travelling, visit HouseTrip.