The Bamboo Cevennes is a private botanical garden in Générargues, in the Cévennes region of southern France. It specialises in bamboo, with around 300 species, and its collection is among the oldest in Europe. Walk the bamboo paths, rest in the zen garden, and look for the Japanese garden and the giant sequoias. Children can try the labyrinth and the aerial walkway, and there are animals to watch along the way. Allow two to three hours to see the whole garden.
A bamboo garden in the Cévennes
The Bamboo Cevennes is a private garden in Générargues that focuses on bamboo. Its collection holds around 300 species, which makes it one of the older bamboo collections in Europe.
The planting is varied enough to keep the walk interesting. Bamboo groves sit alongside tropical plants, ponds and a Japanese garden, and the giant sequoias add height to the paths.
Walking the garden
The zen garden is the quietest part of the visit. Its ponds and flowers make it a good place to sit for a while before continuing.
The Dragon Valley is one of the most striking areas. Many visitors combine it with the bamboo groves, and the garden is wide enough to explore at an unhurried pace.
Animals live in the park and can be seen as you walk, so keep an eye out along the paths.
Activities for children
The labyrinth is a simple way to keep children busy as they explore. The aerial walkway is another favourite, giving a different view over the planting.
There are also open areas where children can play, so the garden suits families as well as adults who want a quieter walk.
Getting there by steam train
The little steam train of the Cévennes runs through the Valley of the Gardons to Saint-Jean-du-Gard. It stops at the bamboo plantation on the way, which makes the garden an easy addition to a train day.
For other transport, check the garden's website before you travel.
Tickets, food and access
Buying tickets online in advance is the easiest option, since the counter can have a long queue at busy times.
The garden has a cafeteria serving simple sandwiches, cakes and drinks. A shop sells trees, flowers and products made from bamboo, so you can take a plant home if you wish.
The entrance, restroom and parking area are wheelchair accessible, and an assistive hearing loop is available.
Häufige Fragen
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Buying tickets online in advance is recommended. The counter can have a long queue, especially at busy times.
How long do you need at the Bamboo Cevennes?
Plan two to three hours for a relaxed visit. A brisk walk through the main areas takes just over an hour.
Is the garden suitable for children?
Yes. It has a labyrinth, an aerial walkway and areas where children can play.
Is the garden accessible for wheelchair users?
The entrance, restroom and parking area are wheelchair accessible, and an assistive hearing loop is available.
Can you eat at the garden?
There is a cafeteria with simple sandwiches, cakes and drinks.
