Chris Bart

Parc et Jardins du Château d'Acquigny

Situated between the Eure and the Iton, Acquigny, a garden of love, blends romanticism and poetry with novel discoveries. In this natural setting, the Renaissance chateau, with its remarkably elegant and delicate architecture, symbolizes, in myriad details, the theme of love which inspired the chateau. This theme is found throughout the 40-acre park, a true hamlet of peace and tranquility, which has been designated a "remarkable garden." The serpentine river, at times placid and calm, at others wild and restless, babbles until it reaches the majestic waterfall, a moment of surprising beauty. The novel kitchen garden, situated on a man-made island, will transport you into an artificial atmosphere of warmth. Encircled by high walls of pink brick, it houses medicinal plants and garnishes, flowers and vegetables, and a 200-year old trellised pear with 30 branches, itself classified a "remarkable tree." The Italian-inspired orangery exudes an exotic perfume from its collection of 35 varieties of citrus, whose colors and aromas deliver a Mediterranean ambiance. A veritable voyage around the world, Acquigny invites you to discover rare and exceptional specimens such as sumptuous Japanese sophoras, introduced by the botanist Jussieu in 1768, Louisiana cypress, and even Metasequoia from China, a prehistoric tree. For botanical enthusiasts, lovers of nature and architecture, or the simply curious, the park and gardens of Acquigny will delight each with their beauty.