Hello Monaco #11 Spring 2021 | Page 130

SIGHTSEEING
© Domaine du Rayol / Chloé Arregoces
© Domaine du Rayol / Chloé Arregoces
© Domaine du Rayol
DOMAINE DU RAYOL : MEDITERRANEAN LANDSCAPES FROM ALL AROUND THE WORLD

This one of a kind park is based in Canadel-sur-Mer , between Le Lavandou and Saint-Tropez , at the very foot of the Maures Massif . Facing the Hyères Islands , in the Var , the Rayol area boasts 20 hectares of preserved vegetation in an exceptional setting . For thirty years , this vast garden has been owned by the Conservatoire du littoral , a French public organisation protecting outstanding natural coastal areas — closely adhering to the philosophy of Gilles Clément , the famous French garden designer . This outstanding landscaper advocates an intelligent ‘ laissez-faire ’ approach . Gardeners only intervene with a most careful respect for the trees ’ and plants ’ natural cycle . For example , fallen leaves do not get picked up , enriching the soil , and very scarce watering allows for the plants to survive even despite the drought . Man ’ s mission is thus making the best of the diversity while carefully preserving it .

Domaine du Rayol takes us on a world journey across the Mediterranean landscapes . This climate of mild winters and hot , dry summers is typical not only within Europe but also in California ,
Australia , parts of Chile and South Africa too . The gardens thus recreate the atmosphere of some very remote regions . Domaine du Rayol is also treating us to some ‘ special guest ’ plants such as New Zealand ferns , Asian bamboos or Mexican cacti .
© Domaine du Rayol
On top of the 7-hectare garden , the estate also owns a 13-hectare maquis shrubland area cultivated to reduce potential fire risk . A few times a year , thematic visits are organized introducing us to the secret life of the shrubs . Several guided tours are held every day , with the mission of raising public awareness with respect to the preservation of the species and phytotherapy .
DOMAINE DU RAYOL Avenue Jacques Chirac Rayol-Canadel-sur-Mer
� + 33 ( 0 ) 4 9804 4400 www . domainedurayol . org
128 / Hello Monaco Spring 2021 www . hellomonaco . com