Serre de la Madone
One of the Riviera’s most stunning
and important botanical sitesAnd also, one of its most vulnerable
Help us save it.
©Yann Monel
Welcome to Serre de la Madone
Built between 1924 and 1939 by Major Lawrence Johnston, this unique landscaped garden contains countless rare plants and species from all over the world. This earthly paradise is a haven of freshness and greenery.
A few kilometers from the coast in the very hilly Madone district, Lawrence Johnston, British citizen and French at heart, made his home and created a garden where he could install rare plants he would bring from his travels to the four corners of the globe.
The garden houses more than 5,000 plant species, including 3 national collections. Arranged in terraces cleverly linked together by winding pathways, the garden offers us a journey through areas housing numerous architectural styles seen in gardens around the world. Benches, statues, fountains, and impressive water mirrors contrast elegantly in this unique profusion of plants.
Classified as a Historic Monument in 1990, it is the property of the Conservatoire du Littoral and is managed by the City of Menton in association with the Association de Sauvegarde des Jardins d’Exception du Mentonnais.
Over 5,000 plant species
An exceptional biodiversity gathered from all over the world.
3 nationally recognized collections
Official botanical collections recognized for their scientific value.
Listed as a Historic Monument
Protected since 1990 for its historical, landscape, and cultural interest.
Adopt a lemon tree!
Participate in an active conservation project.
Serre de la Madone is installing a collection of lemon trees for conservation and education on three lower terraces, open to the public via a viewing path. Fourteen more terraces are in development for agricultural production.
Up to 100 of these trees are available for adoption. By adopting a tree, you help fund its care for years to come. A commemorative plaque will be placed by the tree you adopt.
Let the world know your commitment to this exceptional place, or honor a loved one by leaving a plaque in their name.
100 lemon trees available
Join the garden sponsors and support a growing local culture.
A plaque with your name
Leave a visible mark of your support or honor a loved one.
A sustainable gesture for the planet
Each adopted tree is a tangible act for the preservation of local plant life.
©Yann Monel
Come for a visit
Serre de la Madone is open to visitors every day except Mondays. From April through October it’s open from 10am to 6pm, and from January through March it’s open from 9am to 5pm. Serre de la Madone is closed to the public in November and December.
Entry fees are reasonably priced at 15€ for adults, 11€ for children.
Free guided tours are available for up to 25 people on Tuesdays, Thursday and Saturdays. Tours start at 3pm and last for approximately 90 minutes.
To ensure your spot in a tour, reservations are strongly recommended.