It’s a little gem of greenery that hasn’t aged a bit… or almost. With its 105 hectares of wildlife, flora, and Sunday joggers, the Parc de la Tête d’Or is a vital piece of Lyon’s heritage, drawing nearly 7 million visitors each year. In response to ever-increasing visitor numbers, evolving uses, and an unforgiving climate, the City of Lyon has decided to take the lead. The result: a large-scale transformation program launched in 2020, designed to last and adapt to today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.
The Renewal of the Botanical Garden Greenhouses
The first major symbolic project: the renovation of the iconic greenhouses of the Botanical Garden. Closed since 2006 (yes, that stings), they will finally regain their splendor thanks to a 9 million euro project and a call for citizen sponsorship. What’s the goal? To offer a brand new biome of 2,600 m² by 2027, dedicated to conservation.
tion and mediation, in a setting that respects protected species. Total cost of operations: 9 million euros.
The future Botanical Garden of the Parc de la Tête d'Or © nfussler
Another botanical gem getting a fresh start soon: the Botanical School. This little spot of plant science will be completely reimagined with a double educational goal. On one side, systematic classification; on the other, ethnobotany and Lyon's culture. Expected to be ready by fall 2025, with a total cost of €550,000.
The Chalet du Parc, the comeback of an institution
But the real green revolution might be the Chalet du Parc. This iconic old building is set to transform into a vibrant eco-friendly third place, with La Fabuleuse Cantine and the GoodPlanet Foundation at the helm. Engaged gastronomy, workshops, exhibitions, artist residencies... all within a self-sufficient building, using its own water and energy. The promise is beautiful!The opening is scheduled for September 2026, and the total cost will be 6.7 million euros.
The Chalet of the Parc de la Tête d'Or is a vibrant eco-friendly third place
Add to that an outdoor daycare project, a redesign of the Lambert farm, and a revamped park charter for the next 20 years, and you have a clear ambition: to make the Parc de la Tête d'Or an urban haven that is as lively as it is resilient. In short, nature has not said its last word in Lyon.
