As the second smallest independent state in the world, the Principality is particularly proud of its parks and gardens, which cover almost 20% of its territory. This is a significant proportion, and it has been necessary to protect and preserve it. It was with this in mind that the "Tree Code" was created in 2011, a document that allows certain plants to be classified as "remarkable" trees. For over a decade, visitors and locals alike have been following the various "Heritage Tree Trail" routes! To see the most remarkable plants in the eastern part of Monaco, in the heart of the Monte-Carlo and Larvotto districts, head for the Tourist Office. From there, the route winds through the sublime Petite Afrique garden before skirting the Casino de Monte-Carlo to reach the Japanese Garden. Norfolk pine from the South Pacific, ginkgo biloba from China, umbrella trees from Asia and Central America... the majestic trees reveal themselves as the successive landscapes unfold.
But the Monaco-Ville district is not to be outdone! Its hanging gardens overlooking the Mediterranean are an ideal spot for a number of rare species. These include the West African fig tree, the Australian woolly rambutan and the vaquois, which usually grows on the shores of the Indian Ocean.
The latest addition to this initiative is Fontvieille, with its green spaces dotted around the district, from the UNESCO Gardens above the shopping centre to the Princess Grace Rose Garden. The rain tree from South-East Asia, the dragon tree from the Canary Islands and the bird of paradise from South Africa are just some of the reasons to meander through the heart of this area, which was entirely reclaimed from the sea over 30 years ago!
An ideal route to marvel at and discover a lesser-known side of the Principality that's totally worth the diversions!
To find out more and download the brochure: click here