The gardens
Beaulieu-sur-Mer enjoys a temperate climate, ideal for the development of Mediterranean and exotic species.
Two gardens stand out and invite you to discover some of this remarkable plant heritage.
Le Jardin de l’Olivaie – Square Calmette
Opening times :
From 1st April to 31st October : 8am to 7pm
From 1st November to 31st Mars : 8am to 6pm
Just a stone’s throw from the sea, the Jardin de l’Olivaie, a haven of peace and serenity, was originally a centuries-old olive grove on the estate of Hippolyte Marinoni, inventor of the rotary press and the town’s first mayor in 1891. It was acquired by the commune in 1934 under François de May.
The 6,000 m2 site is planted with around a hundred olive trees over a hundred years old. The olive tree is closely linked to the life and development of Beaulieu-sur-Mer, hence its ancient name of Olivo. The tree is also depicted on the town’s coat of arms.
In addition to the restful and enchanting presence of the Olea europaea trees, the park’s ground cover is also unusual, being a typical “kikuyu” lawn.
The perimeter walls are covered with climbing plants, including several Thunbergia, the Black-eyed Susan, and a superb Ficus pumila.
A monumental gateway adorns the garden above the marina, which is entered via rue Jean Bracco.
Closed for private or public events. For further information, contact the Town Hall on 04 93 76 47 00.
Le square Verdun
Opening times of the playground :
From 15th June to 15th September : 8am to 7pm
From 16th September to 14th June : 8am to 6pm
This area for strolling and relaxing once belonged to the former Hôtel Bristol, the jewel in the crown of luxury hotels during the Belle Epoque. It enjoys a prestigious setting, facing the sea and a stone’s throw from the Plage des Fourmis, between the Casino and the Rotonde.
Now a municipal garden, it has retained its spirit of an acclimatisation garden, with a host of exotic species: the fragrant Paulownia tomentosa, which blooms like a Jacaranda, the imposing Araucaria cunninghamii, the flamboyant Brachychiton acerifolius and palms of all kinds, including the astonishing Sabal bermudana and the elegant Washingtonia filifera.
There is also a children’s garden to delight the youngest visitors.
