Just two hours by train from the French capital, this small village boasts a unique charm that makes it a must-see destination for nature and heritage lovers. Classified as a remarkable garden, Chédigny is the only garden village in France. There are no simple flowerbeds here, but rather a veritable display of plants: over 1,000 rosebushes, 3,000 perennials and shrubs line the facades and alleyways, providing a decor that changes with the seasons.
An entire village classified as a Remarkable Garden
Chédigny began its metamorphosis in the 1990s. Under the impetus of its mayor and with the help of renowned rose growers such as André Ève, the inhabitants gradually transformed the village into a veritable jewel-case of greenery. The facades of old houses are embraced by climbing roses, sidewalks are replaced by flower beds, and every nook and cranny seems designed to showcase the flowers.
To walk through Chédigny is to pass through a small village that makes you think of a fairy tale. The seasons punctuate the colors: roses and peonies in spring, lavender and hydrangeas in summer, flamboyant foliage in autumn. The result? A rare bucolic ambience, where every alleyway is an invitation to stroll and marvel. It’s this exceptional setting that has earned the village its Remarkable Garden label since 2013, a distinction usually reserved for botanical parks and gardens. And in addition to its flower-filled lanes, Chédigny is also home to a pretty Romanesque church and traditional Touraine houses. It’s a perfect base from which to explore nearby Loire castles such as Chenonceau and Amboise.
Throughout the year, the village is the scene of a host of events. But the highlight comes in May, when Chédigny hosts the Festival des Roses, an event that attracts several thousand visitors. Nurserymen, exhibitors and enthusiasts come together to celebrate the queen of flowers. But even outside the festival, the village remains a popular place to stroll, especially for photography enthusiasts and families in search of peace and quiet.
📍Location : Chédigny – 37310
🚇 Access: By train via Tours and Bléré – Or by car via A10