Background

Vallée des Jardins: Caen's Green Escape

Discover Caen's Vallée des Jardins: a 24/7 green escape with diverse landscapes, arboretum, picnic spots, and recreational activities, perfect for nature lovers and active explorers.

4.5

Escape the urban bustle in Caen's Vallée des Jardins, an 11-hectare green haven accessible 24/7. Created in 1984 on former natural meadows, this park offers a diverse landscape, from an arboretum showcasing birch, maple, and alder collections to open lawns and a vibrant collection of perennials at the base of a limestone cliff. Enjoy jogging, cycling on dedicated paths, or a relaxing picnic. The park also features a disc golf course and permanent orienteering trails. With its open access and varied landscapes, the Vallée des Jardins provides a refreshing natural retreat within the city.

A brief summary to Vallée des jardins

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during different seasons to witness the changing colors and blooms in the arboretum and perennial gardens.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawns or at the designated picnic tables.
  • Explore the permanent orienteering course for a fun and active way to discover the park.
  • Take advantage of the 24/7 access for an early morning jog or a peaceful evening stroll.
  • Check the Caen.fr website for occasional events and activities held in the park.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Avenue de Courseulles and Boulevard Weygand, walk west along Avenue de Courseulles. The main entrance to Vallée des Jardins will be on your left within a few minutes. The park is directly accessible from the sidewalk.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near Vallée des Jardins. From Caen city center, take Twisto bus lines 2 or 14 and disembark at the 'Vallée des Jardins' stop on Avenue de Courseulles. The park entrance is a short walk from the bus stop. A single Twisto bus fare is €2.27, valid for one hour of travel.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Caen. A taxi ride from the Caen train station to Vallée des Jardins typically costs between €10-€15, depending on traffic and time of day. Direct the driver to 77D Avenue de Courseulles.

  • Driving

    If driving, approach Vallée des Jardins via Avenue de Courseulles. Limited free street parking is available along Avenue de Courseulles. Parking is also available along Rue des Jardins. Be aware that parking can be competitive during peak hours. There are no toll roads required to reach the park.

Unlock the Best of Vallée des jardins

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Vallée des jardins

Vallée des Jardins, a verdant jewel in the heart of Caen, offers a tranquil escape from the city's energetic pace. Spanning 11 hectares, this public park, whose name translates to "Valley of Gardens," is a testament to thoughtful urban planning and a commitment to preserving green spaces for the community. Established in 1984, the park occupies the site of former natural meadows, transforming what was once agricultural land into a diverse and thriving ecosystem. The Vallée des Jardins is more than just a park; it's a carefully curated landscape designed to engage visitors with nature in all its forms. The park is thoughtfully divided into three distinct sections, each offering a unique experience. The upper section, bordering Boulevard Weygand, is home to an impressive arboretum. This living collection showcases a variety of tree species, with a particular emphasis on birch, maple, alder, and ash trees. Wander through the arboretum's winding paths and discover 13 remarkable trees and 90 collection trees, each carefully labeled and maintained. This area serves as both a beautiful display and an educational resource, allowing visitors to learn about the diverse tree species that thrive in the region. The middle section of the Vallée des Jardins transitions into a more open landscape, characterized by rustic lawns dotted with white hawthorns and elder bushes. These expansive green spaces provide ample room for recreation, relaxation, and community gatherings. Whether you're looking to spread out a picnic blanket, toss a frisbee, or simply soak up the sun, this section of the park offers a welcoming and versatile environment. The lower section of the park is perhaps the most visually striking, featuring a vibrant collection of perennial plants nestled at the foot of a dramatic limestone cliff. This area is a riot of color and texture, with peonies and daylilies taking center stage. The limestone cliff provides a natural backdrop, adding a sense of drama and enclosure to the space. This section of the park is particularly popular with photographers and nature enthusiasts, who come to admire the beauty of the flowers and the unique geological features. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Vallée des Jardins also offers a range of recreational opportunities. Jogging enthusiasts will appreciate the park's well-maintained paths, which wind through the various sections of the park, providing a scenic and challenging workout. Cyclists can also enjoy the park, with dedicated bike paths that traverse the landscape. For those seeking a more leisurely activity, the park offers a nine-hole disc golf course, providing a fun and engaging way to spend an afternoon. In addition to its formal gardens and recreational facilities, the Vallée des Jardins also plays an important role in the city's ecological network. The park is integrated into a network of green corridors, which provide vital habitat for wildlife and help to connect fragmented ecosystems. This commitment to ecological sustainability is evident throughout the park, from the careful selection of plant species to the implementation of environmentally friendly management practices. The Vallée des Jardins is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, making it accessible to visitors at any time of day or night. This open access policy reflects the park's role as a community resource, providing a safe and welcoming space for all. Whether you're looking for a morning jog, an afternoon picnic, or an evening stroll, the Vallée des Jardins is always there to welcome you. Practical amenities further enhance the visitor experience. Picnic tables are scattered throughout the park, providing convenient spots for enjoying a meal outdoors. Public restrooms are also available near the parking area. Dogs are welcome in the park, as long as they are kept on a short leash. Cyclists are permitted to ride on designated bike paths. The Vallée des Jardins is easily accessible by car, with parking available on Avenue de Courseulles. The park is also well-served by public transportation, with several bus stops located nearby. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to Caen, getting to the Vallée des Jardins is a breeze. The park's history is intertwined with the broader history of Caen. In the Middle Ages, Caen was a walled city, surrounded by meadows that extended to the base of its ramparts. The gardens within the city walls were primarily utilitarian, providing food and resources for the residents. As the city expanded and evolved, so too did its gardens. The Vallée des Jardins represents a modern interpretation of this horticultural tradition, providing a space for recreation, relaxation, and connection with nature. Visiting the Vallée des Jardins is an opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of nature in the heart of a bustling city. Whether you're a seasoned gardener, a casual nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this park has something to offer everyone. Take a stroll through the arboretum, admire the vibrant flower displays, or simply relax on the lawn and soak up the sun. The Vallée des Jardins is a true gem of Caen, and a must-see destination for any visitor to the city.

Popular Experiences near Vallée des jardins

Popular Hotels near Vallée des jardins

Select Currency