A visit to the Jardins secrets of Vaulx near Annecy is a fascinating experience that will interest lovers of Baroque architecture and botany enthusiasts alike.

Created to tell a story

Between Annecy and Aix-les-Bains, the Jardins Secrets of Vaulx offer over 7000 m² relaxation and a change of scenery for the curious of all ages. This is the story of a family that settled in 1980 in an old rural farm in the small town of Vaulx in Haute-Savoie. The couple with their three children are renovating the building while decorating it and sprucing up the surroundings. The 7,000 m² of the Gardens are empirically created to tell a story. The only common thread is to make the places pleasant and conducive to daydreaming by mixing influences and atmospheres. The more the project grows and takes shape, the more the Gardens intrigue. The couple decided in 1994 to open their doors to visitors.

An improbable mosaic of gardens

The influences are numerous, between the Alps and the Mediterranean. It is a succession of gardens, patios, ponds and fountains that constitute this unique place whose Ariadne’s thread is the water that we hear flowing and which brings this feeling of tranquility and contemplation. The materials used are recycled, natural and often diverted from their initial function. The lush vegetation adapts to the many fountains, eight of which are named after the couple’s grandchildren. For some visitors, The Alcazar of Seville and the Alhambra of Granada have certainly influenced certain parts of the Gardens of Vaulx with this subtle balance between water, architecture and vegetation.

The Remarkable Garden Label

The presence of vegetation in the Gardens of Vaulx seems natural around the buildings. The choice of local essences is combined with the softness of the place. The bees and bumblebees have returned because the owners no longer treat the rose bushes with pesticides. The many bee plants have attracted several species of butterflies. In 1997, the garden received the “Green Tourism Trophy”, in 2014 the “Quality Tourism Mark” from the Ministry of Tourism and in 2018 the “Remarkable Garden” label. A snack is available on site at noon in summer.

Practical information for visiting the Secret Gardens

The site is open every day. Prices :

• Adult: €8.50

• Child from 4 to 12 years old: €4.50

• Under 4 years old: free Address: The Secret Gardens, 1561 route de Lagnat, 74150 Vaulx