Jardin de la Perrine à Laval : Complete guide

History of Jardin de la Perrine

The history of Jardin de la Perrine in Laval dates back to the Middle Ages, but it's only since the 1885 that the town bought the property to create a public garden, the absence of a large municipal park. The municipal architect Léopold Ridel designed a promenade garden with sections inspired by French and English gardens.

In the 1920a rose garden is added, showcasing a wide variety of roses. Throughout the XXᵉ century, the garden expanded and became one of the favorite places of relaxation and nature for Lavallois and visitors alike.

What to see and do at Jardin de la Perrine?

Exceptional botanical wealth

Visit Jardin de la Perrine is home to a wide variety of vegetation:

• Roseraie with over a hundred varieties of roses.

• Remarkable trees as the Giant Sequoiathe Ginkgo bilobathe cedars Lebanon and Atlas, the holm oakthe magnolia, and an avenue of century-old lime trees.
  This diversity makes it a real urban botanical garden where plant lovers and walkers alike can find something to suit their tastes.

Fun and family zones

The garden is not just a place for botany: it also offers children's areas :

• L'Île aux enfants« playground»,

• Mini-farm with animals (goats, ducks, exotic birds, etc.).
  It's the ideal place for a family outing or picnic in a lush green setting.

Monuments, museums and tributes

Visit Jardin de la Perrine in Laval also contains cultural and historical elements :

• Tomb of the painter Henri Rousseau, Douanier-Rousseau, a native of Laval.

• Espace Alain Gerbault, a tribute to the life of the famous navigator from Laval.

• Orangery converted into exhibition room.

An exceptional panorama

The garden is situated on a rocky promontory which overlooks the Mayenne valleyoffering remarkable views of Laval and its heritage, including the Old Castle.

Practical information

Location

Jardin de la Perrine
10 allée Adrien Bruneau
53000 Laval, France

Opening hours

The garden is open all year round :

• November 1ᵉʳ to February 28: 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

• From March 1ᵉʳ to March 31: 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

• April 1ᵉʳ to September 30: 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

• October 1ᵉʳ to October 31: 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
  Sundays and public holidays: opening at 9 a.m.; in summer (June 15-August 15), closing at 8:30 p.m. on certain days.
  Free admission.

 Access and services

The garden is accessible on foot from the town center or via nearby parking lots. It features benches, picnic areas and spaces suitable for family walks.

Why visit Jardin de la Perrine?

• A green lung in the city center, perfect for a nature break.

• Botanical diversity, ideal for garden lovers and botanists.

• Play areas and animals for children.

• Heritage and culture, with tributes to local personalities.

• Panoramic view of Laval and the Mayenne valley.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is Jardin de la Perrine in Laval?
The garden is a botanical public park located in downtown Laval, combining green spaces, plant collections and relaxation areas.

Is there a charge for admission?
No, access to the Jardin de la Perrine is free all year round.

Can we take a family walk?
Yes, with children's play areas, animals and picnic areas.

What remarkable trees can be found in the garden?
There are ginkgoes, sequoia, Lebanese and Atlas cedars, century-old lime trees, magnolias and more.

Does the garden offer panoramic views?
Yes, perched on a promontory, it offers magnificent views over the Mayenne valley.

Conclusion

Visit Jardin de la Perrine in Laval is the place to be for those who love nature, relaxation, history and family walks. Thanks to its rich botanical heritage, with its playful spaces and privileged location, it is an ideal an ideal visit to the heart of Laval.

Discover more about this type of historic green space by exploring this complementary encyclopedic source: Botanical gardens of France and elsewhere consult here