Summer is the perfect time to get away from the capital and discover new places. Having already introduced you to a troglodyte village and a remarkable chapel just 1 h from Paris, let’s take our exploration a step further and head for Bourges. Just 2 hours from Paris by train, this flower-filled town hides a delightful garden, typical of the Art Deco style. With its magnificent plant sculptures, rose beds and rectilinear lawns, this garden has a unique charm all of its own! A fabulous weekend getaway.
Le Jardin des Prés Fichaux: a sublime Art Deco garden 2 hours from Paris
Inaugurated in 1930, this magnificent 4-hectare green space was conceived and designed by landscape architect Paul Margueritta. It’s hard to believe that this sublime garden was originally occupied by former marshes, cultivated and then abandoned… In 1919, the town’s mayor, Henri Laudier, set himself the goal of beautifying and reclaiming the site, located near the Bourges train station. It took almost 10 years for the landscaper’s work to finally be realized.
Step inside and you’ll discover a magical atmosphere, virtually unchanged since its inauguration almost 100 years ago. You’ll discover beautiful sculptures, remarkable ponds surrounded by flowers, a superb rose garden with its bewitching fragrances, and an open-air theater. The latter used to seat around 1,000, and is still the meeting place for the city’s musicians and artists. Edith Piaf even performed here on July 4, 1948 with other musicians… The importance of this place for the people of Berru.
Between its trimmed hedges, flowerbeds and rows of yew and lime trees, you’ ll discover a charming grove dedicated to the god Pan, whose sculpture dominates the pond. This Greek god is one of Nature’s most important deities. His place in this charming setting was a natural. The basin is extended by a canal, beautifully adorned with seasonal flowers, each more colorful than the last. A delightful sight for the eyes, to be admired all year round.
Labelled a “Remarkable Garden” for over 10 years, this magnificent garden is a must-see on your next outing outside Paris.
📍Location: Boulevard de la République 18 000 Bourges
⌚Hours: daily, 8am to 5:30pm