Jardin Férolle, a trip back to the Middle Ages
Jardin Férolle, perched high up on the hills of Parthenay, was laid out in 2011 on the model of medieval gardens: central water point, gravelled paths, chestnut-wood separators, etc. It offers a wonderful vista over the town and was designed around four levels: the kitchen garden, the flower meadow, the herb garden, comprising medicinal plants, and the orchard.
🌼 Jardin Férolle, Parthenay Tél. 05 49 64 24 24
Parc Imbert, terraces in the centre of town
It was once a private garden belonging to the Imbert family, now transformed into a public park by the municipality of Thouars. This 3-hectare oasis of greenery, boasting a wide array of horticultural flowers, is set out in terraces. It's located right in the centre of town and is surrounded by some of the medieval fortifications.
🌼 Parc Imbert, Thouras
Tél. 05 49 66 00 62
Jardin de Riparfonds, Renaissance influence
Those who choose to stay in the neighbouring guesthouse often mix up the address. And end up visiting this magnificent Renaissance-inspired garden, beside Bressuire. Pascal Paineau, its passionate owner, will be delighted to reveal the history of this place to you, divided into a landscaped, pleasure garden and a food garden.
🌼 Jardin de Riparfonds, Bressuire
Tél. 05 49 74 39 71 and 06 70 58 39 98
Jardin de Cistus, inspired by world-renowned experts
Dominique Ethioux, the owner, transformed a 1-hectare prairie into an amazing garden. This self-taught man drew his inspiration from the greatest nursery specialists, in particular Princess Sturdza, renowned throughout the professional world. This green haven, nestling in the Vallée d'Argenton, combines foliage, decorative bark and flowers.
🌼 Jardin de Cistus, Argenton-les-Vallées
Tél. 05 49 80 67 12
A TIP FROM A CONNOISSEUR
To continue to take advantage of natural surroundings, head off on the greenway, a track far from the hustle and bustle of traffic that extends along the old railway lines. Some sections begin, for example, in Bressuire.
www.tourisme-bocage.com
Amélia Blanchot is a journalist, La Rochelle her home port. When she's not reporting, she's never far from a horse.
