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Clos Alexandre: A Gardener's Dream in Amiens

Discover Clos Alexandre in Amiens: A restored family garden showcasing horticultural artistry through themed enclosures and diverse plant collections, offering a tranquil escape.

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Escape the bustle of Amiens and discover Clos Alexandre, a meticulously redesigned 5,000 sq meter garden on the city's southwestern fringe. Originally a kitchen garden established in 1932, it fell into disrepair before being lovingly restored in 1992 by Jean Lemaître, the founder's son. Today, it's a captivating space showcasing the evolution of gardening through themed enclosures. Wander through the water garden, lose yourself in the apple tree labyrinth, or find serenity in the medieval cloister. With over 250 species and 1,500 varieties, including collections of clematis and Japanese maples, this 'remarkable garden' offers a tranquil retreat and a glimpse into horticultural artistry. While its official 'Jardin Remarquable' status was retired in 2016, its charm and beauty remain undiminished, offering a unique experience for garden enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

A brief summary to Clos Alexandre

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours in advance, as Clos Alexandre is only open to the public during specific cultural events or on certain days of the week.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking on gravel paths and grassy areas.
  • Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the diverse plant collections and themed garden spaces.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Amiens city center, the Ametis bus network provides access to the area near Clos Alexandre. Check the Ametis website or app for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. From the nearest bus stop, it's a short walk to the garden. A single bus ticket costs €1.40.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from the Amiens city center to Clos Alexandre will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic and the specific starting point. The journey typically takes 10-15 minutes.

  • Walking

    If you are near the Université de Picardie Jules Verne campus, Clos Alexandre is within walking distance. From the campus, follow Rue des 4 Lemaire southwest. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. Note that there are limited sidewalks on some sections of the road.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 229 Rue des 4 Lemaire, 80000 Amiens. Parking near Clos Alexandre is limited and primarily street parking. Be aware of parking restrictions and time limits. There are some parking options a bit further away, such as Parking Centrum, but that would require a 15-20 minute walk. Parking fees vary but expect to pay around €2 per hour at paid parking locations.

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Discover more about Clos Alexandre

Nestled on the southwestern outskirts of Amiens, a short distance from the university campus, lies Clos Alexandre, a testament to the enduring power of family legacy and horticultural passion. This isn't just a garden; it's a living narrative of dedication, abandonment, and ultimately, rebirth. Originally conceived in 1932 by Alexandre Lemaître, this plot of land began as a humble kitchen garden, a source of sustenance and pride for Alexandre, Méline, Madeleine, and Albert. For three decades, they cultivated a diverse array of fruits and vegetables, aided by local experts like Père Graux, the 'high priest of fruit trees,' and Père Wallet, the 'grand organizer of vegetables.' The garden was meticulously planned, featuring a central 150-meter aisle lined with cordon apple trees, perpendicular espalier pear trees forming compartments for cherries, apricots, plums, and peaches. The orchard was so productive that it yielded 3,000 bottles of cider annually. However, with the passing of these dedicated individuals, the garden gradually fell into disrepair, slumbering peacefully for nearly 25 years. It wasn't until 1991 that Jean Lemaître, Alexandre's son, resolved to revive his family's legacy. Beginning in the spring of 1992, he embarked on a decade-long restoration project, transforming the overgrown space into the captivating garden that exists today. Spanning approximately 5,000 square meters, Clos Alexandre is structured around the theme of the evolving relationship between humans and gardens. This concept is brought to life through eight distinct 'clos,' or enclosed spaces, each offering a unique atmosphere and horticultural focus: * **The Water Garden:** A serene oasis featuring aquatic plants and tranquil water features. * **The Labyrinth of Apple Trees:** A whimsical maze created by carefully pruned apple trees, inviting exploration and discovery. * **The Medieval Cloister:** A contemplative space evoking the atmosphere of a traditional monastic garden. * **The Vegetable Garden:** A vibrant display of seasonal vegetables, showcasing the garden's origins as a source of nourishment. * **The Romantic Garden:** A charming and intimate space filled with fragrant flowers and winding paths. * **The Garden in Pots:** A creative arrangement of potted plants, demonstrating the versatility of container gardening. * **The Little Wood:** A shaded area providing a cool respite from the sun, with a focus on woodland plants. * **The Garden in Perspective:** A carefully designed space that uses visual tricks to create a sense of depth and grandeur. Within these diverse enclosures, visitors can discover over 250 plant species and more than 1,500 varieties. The garden boasts impressive collections of clematis, Japanese maples, viburnums and hostas. Rare species from Chile and Japan add an exotic touch to the landscape. While Clos Alexandre was once recognized as a 'Jardin Remarquable' (Remarkable Garden) by the French Ministry of Culture, it no longer holds this official designation since 2016. Nevertheless, the garden's beauty, tranquility, and horticultural significance remain undiminished. It offers a unique and enriching experience for garden enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape from the urban environment. The garden is a living testament to the power of family, the beauty of nature, and the enduring legacy of a gardener's dream.

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