Monaco's Jardin Exotique: a plant balcony between sky and sea
Since 1933, the Exotic Garden has been one of the jewels of the Riviera. Set on a steep cliff face, it boasts a remarkable collection of succulent plants from all over the world. Cacti, agaves, aloes and crassulas thrive here, enjoying the Mediterranean climate and flourishing all year round.
The plant diversity is impressive: over 1,000 species of succulent plants are represented, mainly from Latin and North America, South and Central Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Each season reveals its treasures, from winter blooms to spring colour explosions.
The route winds its way through clumps of plants in extravagant shapes and shimmering colours. At every turn, breathtaking views open up over the sea, the Rock of Monaco and the contours of the coastline.
The Grotte de l'Observatoire: a descent into the heart of the rock
Below the garden, another marvel awaits visitors: the Grotte de l'Observatoire. Discovered in 1916 during work to lay the foundations for the garden, this natural cavity offers a veritable underground journey. Access is via a staircase of over 300 steps, winding its way through galleries adorned with limestone concretions.
Stalactites, stalagmites, draperies and columns intertwine, sculpted drop by drop over thousands of years by water laden with carbon dioxide. The tour, which is guided by specialists, goes down 98 m to 40 m above sea level and gives you a better understanding of the geological phenomena behind these formations, while discovering a mysterious and silent universe.
The Grotte de l'Observatoire is a precious testimony to the geological history of the region. A visit to the Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology, located in the garden, is an excellent complement. Its collections include a number of relics found in the cave, testifying to the presence of prehistoric man on the site.
A site steeped in history and science
At the beginning of the 20th century, Prince Albert I, a great explorer and patron of the sciences, launched a project to create a garden bringing together rare species from arid regions of the world.
Work began in 1913, and it was not until 1933 that the garden was inaugurated by Prince Louis II. The steep topography of the site, which was not very accessible in the past, was taken advantage of to create a spectacular path, entirely on the side of a cliff.
The Grotte de l'Observatoire owes its name to its proximity to an ancient astronomical observatory. Discovered in 1916, it has been open to the public since 1950.
Today, as well as a botanical walk and a visit to the cave, the site offers regular events and temporary exhibitions, as well as a shop. In 2020, major work was undertaken to make the site safer and more attractive, showcasing the Exotic Garden's 25,000 or so plants. When it reopens at the end of summer 2025, a snack bar will be available in the Garden, and the Grotte de l'Observatoire will have a children's play area and a terrace with a view of the Rocher.
Practical information
The Exotic Garden Botanical Centre is open to the public free of charge from Tuesday to Saturday, 8.30am to 3.30pm.
The Exotic Garden shop is also open when the Garden is closed, from Tuesday to Saturday, 8.30am to 5pm.
Accessibility : Due to its topography, wheelchair access is limited to the platform at the entrance to the exhibition hall.
The panoramic view of the Principality and the Riviera is accessible.
Pushchairs are not permitted in the garden (parking available at the entrance).
Free access for wheelchair users and reduced rate for accompanying adults.
Reduced rate for disabled visitors on presentation of a disability card.