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Jardin du Rosaire: A Haven on Fourvière Hill

Discover a serene escape on Fourvière Hill at Jardin du Rosaire, a historic garden offering stunning views of Lyon, themed floral displays, and a peaceful connection to the Basilica.

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Nestled on the slopes of Fourvière Hill in Lyon, the Jardin du Rosaire offers a tranquil escape with stunning city views. Originally designed in the 19th century to facilitate religious processions to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the gardens have evolved into a serene public space. Wander through themed zones like the rose garden and the Chinese garden, admiring diverse flora, including old roses, hydrangeas, and fruit trees. Small plaques mark the stages of praying the rosary, a nod to the garden's religious heritage. The Jardin du Rosaire provides a peaceful retreat and a picturesque link between Vieux Lyon and the Fourvière Basilica, open daily and offering shaded pathways for a relaxing stroll.

A brief summary to Jardin du Rosaire

  • 43 Mnt Saint-Barthélémy, Lyon, 69005, FR
  • Monday 8 am-11 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-11 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-11 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-11 pm
  • Friday 8 am-11 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-11 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-11 pm

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for panoramic city views and architectural splendor.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the garden involves walking uphill and exploring winding paths.
  • Visit during the spring or summer to see the roses and hydrangeas in full bloom.
  • Take advantage of the shaded pathways for a cool and relaxing stroll during warmer months.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of Lyon from various points within the garden.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Vieux Lyon (Cathédrale Saint-Jean) metro station on Line D, walk towards the Montée des Chazeaux, then continue onto Montée Saint-Barthélémy. Enter the Jardin du Rosaire on your right. Alternatively, take the F2 funicular from Vieux Lyon station to Fourvière. From the Fourvière station, walk towards the Basilica and find the garden entrance near the esplanade. A single metro/funicular ticket costs €2, valid for one hour across bus, metro, tram, and funicular lines.

  • Walking

    From Vieux Lyon, follow the Montée des Chazeaux, a stepped street that ascends Fourvière Hill. Continue onto Montée Saint-Barthélémy and enter the gardens on your right. The walk is steep and requires a reasonable level of fitness. Allow approximately 20-30 minutes for the ascent.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Vieux Lyon to the entrance of Jardin du Rosaire (43 Mnt Saint-Barthélémy) will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic. Be aware that traffic on Fourvière Hill can be congested, especially during peak tourist season.

  • Driving

    Driving directly to Jardin du Rosaire is possible, but parking is limited. There are several parking options near Fourvière Basilica, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. Parking St-Jean, Parking St-Antoine, and Parking Terreaux are within a reasonable walking distance. Expect to pay around €2.50-€4 per hour for parking.

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Discover more about Jardin du Rosaire

The Jardin du Rosaire, or Rosary Garden, is a captivating green space gracefully cascading down the slopes of Fourvière Hill in Lyon. This 2.5-hectare garden, with its 1400 meters of winding paths, offers visitors a serene escape from the bustling city below and a unique perspective on Lyon's rich history and natural beauty. Originally conceived in the 19th century, the Jardin du Rosaire was designed to provide a route for religious processions honoring the Virgin Mary, leading up to the newly constructed Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Over time, the gardens were divided into private plots, which eventually fell into disrepair. In 1990, a new project was undertaken to revitalize the area, transforming it into the public garden that exists today, designed by Michel-Antoine Boyer and Sylvie Maniaque. As you enter the Jardin du Rosaire, you'll immediately be struck by the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings. The garden is home to a diverse collection of trees, including lime trees, chestnut trees, and maples, creating shaded areas perfect for relaxation and contemplation. The paths meander through a variety of themed zones, each offering a unique sensory experience. The rose garden, a nod to the garden's religious origins, showcases a stunning array of old roses, their delicate petals and intoxicating fragrances filling the air. Nearby, the Chinese garden, so named because a Chinese gardener once cultivated vegetables there, is dedicated to hydrangeas, their vibrant blooms adding splashes of color to the landscape. An orchard, created from existing fruit trees, provides a link to the archaeological area of Fourvière Hill. Throughout the garden, small plaques are embedded in the ground, marking the stages of praying the rosary. This subtle detail serves as a reminder of the garden's religious heritage and invites visitors to reflect on its spiritual significance. The path continues to play a role in religious observances, particularly during the procession on December 8th, a date of great importance to the Catholic community in Lyon. At the base of the garden lies the House of Lorette, where Pauline Jaricot, a key figure in the 19th-century Living Rosary movement, once resided. Her legacy is woven into the fabric of the garden, adding another layer of historical and cultural significance. Ascending through the Jardin du Rosaire, you'll be rewarded with increasingly breathtaking views of Lyon. The city unfolds before you, with its terracotta rooftops, winding rivers, and iconic landmarks. From the Basilica esplanade at the summit of the garden, you can take in a panoramic vista that stretches as far as the eye can see. Adding to the unique character of the Jardin du Rosaire is a metal tower, resembling a miniature Eiffel Tower, which serves as a relay antenna. This quirky structure provides a modern counterpoint to the garden's historical and natural elements. The Jardin du Rosaire is more than just a garden; it's a journey through time, a celebration of nature, and a testament to the enduring spirit of Lyon. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, a historical exploration, or simply a stunning view, the Jardin du Rosaire is sure to captivate your senses and leave you with a lasting impression. Today, the Jardin du Rosaire forms part of the larger Parc des Hauteurs, an urban park encompassing the public spaces between the Basilique de Fourvière and the Loyasse cemetery. This green corridor offers a continuous pathway for exploration and discovery, connecting some of Lyon's most significant historical and cultural sites. Visiting the Jardin du Rosaire is a must for any traveler seeking to experience the heart and soul of Lyon. Its blend of history, nature, and stunning views makes it a truly unforgettable destination. While exploring the Jardin du Rosaire, take the time to appreciate the smaller details that make it so special. Notice the intricate patterns of the flowerbeds, the gentle rustling of the leaves, and the distant sounds of the city below. Allow yourself to be transported to another time and place, and let the beauty of the garden nourish your soul. The Jardin du Rosaire is a place where history and nature intertwine, creating a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit. It is a testament to the enduring beauty of Lyon and a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural and cultural heritage. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, the Jardin du Rosaire is sure to leave a lasting impression. Its tranquil atmosphere, stunning views, and rich history make it a truly special place, one that you'll want to return to again and again. The Jardin du Rosaire is a true gem of Lyon, a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature and history. It's a place to wander, to reflect, and to simply be present in the moment. So, take a stroll through its winding paths, breathe in the fresh air, and let the beauty of the Jardin du Rosaire inspire you.

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