Gardens and park
In a stroke of luck, the original plans of the park from 1892 came to light during the renovation of the estate, allowing it to be restored to its original state. Several paths invite you to stroll through the park, or use a jogging trail.
Alongside the wonderful plant and animal life, you will discover ponds and a historic grotto, ruins of annex buildings, and a channel which used to serve the silk mill. No park of a hotel in Provence would be complete without three other elements, which were also already included in the original plans: a swimming pool, a boules court and a tennis court.
So if you decide to spend most of your stay at the Château de Montcaud within the estate walls, you will find plenty of variety to engage your senses!
A Natural Glory
Former silk trader and founding father of Château de Montcaud, Alexandre Eugène Collain, wanted his park to represent an idealised version of nature. Today, we can admire his vision in all its glory.
THE PARK IN SHORT
- · 5 hectares, enclosed by a wall
- · Forest and meadows
- · 140 tree varieties (e.g. cedar, sequoia and gingko)
- · 40+ rose varieties
- · Historic rocaille grotto
- · Citrus garden, surrounding a centenarian olive tree
- · Garden space to play, excercise and relax in
- · Walking paths
- · 800m jogging trail
- · Swimming pool
- · Boules courts
- · Tennis court
An abundance of variety
With more than 140 types of mature trees from around the world, Château de Montcaud's park invites guests and visitors to experience a romantically glorified interpretation of nature. Exotic cedar, sequoia, gingko trees stand aside local, mediterranean varieties such as oaks and pines. Scents and fragrances that are typical of Provence such as lavender and honeysuckle line the air, alongside herbs and spices traditionally used in local cuisine. Montcaud's park is very much a work in progress; we continuously check up on our tree population's health, sick plants are removed and young ones are put in their place.
SILK AND ROSES
On your stroll through our hotel's park you will also come across accommodating features : the basin in front of the chateau is home to lotus plants, a homage to the origin of silk in the Far East, their large leaves offering shades and refuge to koi and goldfish. The basin is surrounded by four flower beds, which house several of the more than 40 rose species to be found throughout the park.
History made of cement
Often overlooked, a historic grotto lies at the entrance of the forest. The imitation of a cave looking over a large water basin, is made of cement. Complete with a water features and stalactites, it is accessible both inside and on top. In summer, the cave is pleasantly cool, reflecting its original purpose. A bridge sculpture over the basin illustrates what the cave is today: a work of art of an original French craft worthy of protection – the art of rocaille.
Experience the Magic of Nature
at Château de Montcaud’s Historic Park
