Some places tell a story even before you set foot in them. This is true for the Jardin du Bois Marquis, located in Vernioz, Isère, just 40 kilometers south of Lyon. Behind this 5.5-hectare botanical park lies the passion of Christian Peyron, who dedicated a significant part of his life to shaping this green gem before gifting it to the community.
The result is simply remarkable. Rated as a “Remarkable Garden” and awarded first prize in 2015 by the French National Horticultural Society, this English-inspired park is now one of the most beautiful botanical walks in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
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Over a thousand trees, free-roaming animals, and a huge pond
The Jardin du Bois Marquis isn't your typical arboretum. Instead of sticking to strict scientific guidelines, its creator preferred to gather the species he loved the most, crafting a natural landscape where everything feels perfectly at home. As visitors stroll through, they'll discover nearly 800 leafy trees, including Asian maples, American red oaks, birches, and sweetgums, along with around fifty conifers and nearly 3,000 perennial plants, grasses, and heathers.
Two ponds also dot the path, one being an impressive water body of 8,000 m² where around a hundred ducks of different breeds swim happily. And let’s not forget the many animals that live in semi-liberty in the park: swans, peacocks, deer, and even alpacas make their home here!
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A stroll that's as beautiful as it is informative
The Jardin du Bois Marquis will charm both botany lovers and those who simply enjoy lovely walks. All the trees are carefully labeled, allowing visitors to learn more about the different species throughout the tour. A way to blend discovery...rte, relaxation, and contemplation without ever feeling like you're taking a botany class.
The site completely transforms with the changing seasons. In autumn, the maples and deciduous trees flaunt vibrant colors that evoke the beauty of an Indian summer. In winter, the bark, tree silhouettes, and play of light take center stage, turning the garden into a nearly magical setting.
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One of the most beautiful free gardens around Lyon
What's truly amazing is the price: entry is completely free. A rare find for a botanical garden of this quality, allowing you to enjoy this little natural paradise freely all year round.
The Jardin du Bois Marquis also hosts several highly anticipated events, including the Artists' Meeting in June, where painters, photographers, and sculptors take over the park's paths, as well as the famous Plant Festival held every third weekend in October. Over 70 nurserymen and botanists showcase their most beautiful creations, attracting thousands of gardening enthusiasts.