Parc Oriental de Maulévrier

Parc Oriental de Maulévrier is a large botanical garden designed according to Japanese gardening principles, covering 29 hectares (72 acres) in the Loire Valley. It features several ponds, various bridges, stone lanterns, and carefully tended plants arranged in a thoughtful layout that reflects traditional Far Eastern design.

Architect Alexandre Marcel, who specialized in Oriental design, created this space between 1899 and 1910, basing it on traditional Japanese landscape concepts. His work emerged during a period when European interest in Eastern artistic forms and design traditions was at its height.

The garden reflects Japanese design philosophy through its careful arrangement of natural elements and man-made features that work in harmony. Visitors can observe how water, rocks, and plantings are positioned to create a sense of balance and contemplation that mirrors traditional Eastern aesthetics.

The garden operates seasonally rather than year-round, so check opening times before planning your visit. The grounds are relatively flat for walking, but plan for extended time on your feet since the space covers a large area.

Japanese experts officially validated this as Europe's largest Japanese garden and confirmed its authenticity to Edo period designs. This international recognition makes it a rare example of a European garden judged by Eastern standards.

Location: Maulévrier

Fee: Yes

Charge: 7 EUR

Address: 8 Pl. de la Mairie, 49360 Maulévrier, France

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 13:30-18:00; Saturday-Sunday 10:30-18:30

Phone: +33241555014

Email: contact@parc-oriental.com

Website: https://parc-oriental.com

GPS coordinates: 47.00370,-0.75020

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:04