Environment

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The historic garden of Mont-Dauphin

Vue du jardin historique de Mont-Dauphin

A real gem nestling in the heart of the fortified town, the historic garden of Mont-Dauphin offers a unique experience combining botanical discovery and contemplation.

Located in the heart of the Hautes-Alpes, at an altitude of 1,050 metres, the historic garden of Mont-Dauphin is a unique green setting in the heart of the fortified town, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of Vauban's fortifications. This emblematic site is both a botanical and cultural project, a support for environmental education, as well as a flagship experimental site for the preservation of cultivated biodiversity.

A place steeped in history

Created in 2011 by the local authority on the ruins of the former vicarage of Mont-Dauphin, the historic garden is in perfect harmony with the history of the site. Vauban's plans included vegetable gardens, orchards and pleasure areas, providing a functional and aesthetic space for the soldiers of the stronghold.

Remarkable biodiversity

The historic garden at Mont-Dauphin is home to a rich biodiversity. Among the species grown are old varieties of fruit and vegetables, aromatic plants and ornamental flowers. These crops are grown using traditional, sustainable techniques, preserving the authenticity of the site while helping to protect the environment.

The local fauna is not left out: birds, pollinating insects and small mammals find refuge in this protected area. This cohabitation of nature and heritage makes the garden a living example of applied ecology.

Salsifis sauvages dans le jardin historique de Mont-Dauphin
Salsifis sauvages dans le jardin historique de Mont-Dauphin

Centre des monuments nationaux

An immersive experience

The garden offers visitors an immersion into the plant world of tomorrow: sustainable, respectful of the rhythm of nature and welcoming to pollinators. From June to September, guided tours led by a gardener with a passion for botany enable visitors to discover food and medicinal plants and their uses through the ages. Comfrey, belladonna, marmottier, black henbane: find out all you need to know about these plants, which were well known to our ancestors...

Why visit Mont-Dauphin's historic garden?

  • An exceptional heritage: immerse yourself in history, in the heart of a fortified 17th-century village.
  • An exceptional natural setting: enjoy breathtaking views of the Alpine landscapes while exploring a haven of peace.
  • An outing for everyone: whether you're a history buff, a botany enthusiast or simply looking for some serenity, the garden is sure to please.
Vue du jardin historique de Mont-Dauphin
Vue du jardin historique de Mont-Dauphin

Centre des monuments nationaux

How to get there

The Mont-Dauphin historic garden is open from June to September. To prepare for your visit, check the opening times and buy your tickets on the Guillestrois and Queyras Tourist Office website.

Don't forget to bring comfortable shoes to make the most of this walk through nature and history.

Visite du jardin historique à Mont-Dauphin
Visite du jardin historique à Mont-Dauphin

Centre des monuments nationaux