The Remarkable Garden

The “Jardin Remarquable” label, proof of the richness of our heritage

Since its introduction in 2004, thanks to proposals from the Conseil National des Parcs et Jardins, the Remarkable Garden label :

. Distinguishes parks and gardens of cultural, aesthetic, historical or botanical interest, whether public or private.
Promotes and enhances parks and gardens open to the public.
Takes into account the quality of maintenance of parks and gardens, and their diversity.
Concerns parks and gardens of all styles, small or large, historical or contemporary
. Meets strict criteria and quality standards in terms of layout (organisation of spaces), integration into the site and quality of the surroundings, remarkable features (water, structures, plant architecture, etc.), visitor welcome and maintenance in accordance with environmental quality standards
Is a state label awarded for a renewable period of five years

The awarding of the “Remarkable Garden” Label

The awarding of the “Remarkable Garden” label is linked to a procedure implemented in each region of France. This procedure includes a file produced by the owners or managers, submitted to a working group of around ten people gathered under the aegis of the DRAC (Regional Department of Cultural Affairs). After consulting the file, this group goes on site to judge the interest of the garden and its maintenance.

The criteria for awarding the ‘Remarkable Garden’ label cover the garden’s composition, its integration into the site, the remarkable features it contains (built and planted), its botanical and historical interest, the educational initiatives undertaken and events organised in the garden, maintenance management and respect for the environment.

The label also commits the owners to open to the public at least 50 days a year, including 30 days between April and September, including five Sundays. They also have the duty to participate in the national operations organized by the Ministry of Culture in favor of gardens and heritage.

The remarkable gardens thus offer great qualities, both in terms of welcoming the public and the cultural, aesthetic and botanical interest of the places. Many add a historical dimension when they surround a monument, a castle, a listed or registered building, or when they have been designed by a landscaper whose work has successfully stood the test of time.

What are the advantages of the ‘Remarkable Garden’ label?

. A mention in communication documents distributed by the Ministry of Culture.
The possibility of obtaining specific road signage bearing the logo, following the same process as for buildings protected as historic monuments.
Authorisation to use the label and its logo on all communication and signage documents.
The possibility of being taken into account in the definition of local urban planning schemes (PLU)

Please note: Since 1 January 2014, the label is no longer eligible for tax approval.

List of outstanding gardens as at 12 March 2025