Trees are an essential part of the Monegasque landscape. The
Principality’s two square kilometres are home to no fewer than 92 species, with
many of the finest examples planted in the late 19th century. Some of these
trees are very rare, and you can admire them for yourself by following the
specially created trail that winds through the different districts of Monaco.
The perfect way to visit the country!
Despite being the world’s smallest independent State, the Principality
is home to a large number of parks and gardens, which cover nearly 20% of the
country. Active efforts have been made to protect and preserve this generous
vegetation. One example is the creation of the “Tree Code” in 2011, a document
that allows certain plants to be officially classed as “remarkable”.
For over a decade, visitors and locals have been following the different
“Heritage Tree Trails”. To see the most remarkable trees in eastern Monaco, in
the Monte-Carlo and Larvotto districts, head for the Tourist Office. From
their, the trail winds its way through the sublime Jardin de la Petite Afrique,
before running along the edge of the Casino de Monte-Carlo towards the Japanese
Garden. Norfolk pines from the South Pacific, ginkgo biloba from China, Asian
umbrella trees... You’ll see all manner of majestic plants as you follow the
path.
Including in Monaco’s Old Town! Its hanging gardens overlooking the
Mediterranean are home to many rare species, such as the African fig tree, the
woolly rambutan from Australia, and the screwpine, which is commonly to be
found growing on the shores of the Indian Ocean.
The latest addition to this initiative is the district of Fontvieille
and its green spaces, from the UNESCO Gardens above the shopping mall to the
Prince Grace Rose Garden. The South-East Asian rain tree, the dragon tree
native to the Canary Islands, or the South African bird of paradise are all
fine reasons to visit this area, which was entirely reclaimed from the sea over
30 years ago!
The perfect walk for discovering a side of the Principality that is
perhaps less well known, but well worth exploring!
For more information and to download the brochure, click here.
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Photo credits:
© BVergely / KTchobanian / DR