Fauna, flora and leisure activities on the French Riviera
If you are interested in exploring the flora and fauna of the Côte d’Azur area, we invite you to visit the parks and gardens below, recommended by the city of Nice.
On the Côte d’Azur, we are fortunate to have a biological diversity thanks to the meeting of alpine influences and the Mediterranean Sea. We are surrounded by 4 National Parks and 6 Regional Parks.
Recreation
Natural parks in the area:
Parc du Vinaigrier
A preserved traditional farm. Discover a beauty spot, east of Nice, with a unique panorama of the Baie des Anges and the bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer. It is open to the public free of charge all day long. It presents a culture of olive trees, large holm oaks, and a varied fauna. You can find tables and a thematic path.
Mercantour National Park
This park has a special focus on all protected and endangered species in a very large area between France and Italy It plays an essential role in maintaining the biodiversity of wild and cultivated species. It is characterized by a heart of par which is forbidden by visitors and an adhesion area where is now developed a local economy. It is open to all free of charge, and you can find inside information centers to guide you.
Parks and Gardens
Jardin Exotique d’Eze
Formerly a medieval fortress 429 meters above the Mediterranean, this is one of the most exceptional views of the Riviera. It gives a view to the Estérel massif. The latter is home to several dozen species of plants from around the world. You can walk along the artistic path all day long for a fee of 3.50 to 6 euros depending on the number of visitors.
Jardin des Arènes de Cimiez
Facing the Monastery, this garden is a vast olive grove, made up of thousands of olive trees more than a hundred years old, its lawns are free to access and make it a privileged place for family walks. Every year, traditional Nice events take place there. The Matisse museum as well as the archaeological site and museum are grouped in this large green space.
Parc du Château de Valrose
One of the most grandiose properties of the Belle Époque, today the seat of the Université Nice Sophia Antipolis and the Faculty of Sciences. The Valrose park was created between 1867 and 1870, at the request of Baron Von Derwies. The wooded valley and its pond constitute an ecological entity where 35 varieties of native birds can be observed. Admission is free but only possible by appointment and during the Heritage Days.
Parc Castel des Deux Rois
A beautiful children’s park with a large expanse of greenery nestled on Mount Alban, offering a breathtaking view of the Bay of Angels. The large lawn is ideal for outdoor games and picnic tables, and is a great place to get some fresh air with the family.
Other green activities around Nice
Visit of the Gorges du Verdon in kayak at 2 hours from Nice
Day trip to the Grand Canyon of Europe and its lavender fields
Private visit of a vineyard in Provence with wine tasting