Jardin des Dauphins is a park built around the historic vestiges and dramatic natural formations of Grenoble. The park’s hiking paths twist and turn around the city’s old fortifications and cliffs, providing a picturesque escape from the nearby city center. Climb the grassy mounds of the park and admire the panoramic views of the mountains surrounding the city.
Arrive in the gardens and study the equestrian statue of Philis de la Charce, known as the Dauphiné region’s Joan of Arc. Walk along the trails and notice the medlar, boxwood, pomegranates and banana trees that grow in this eclectic and scenic set of grounds.
Set up a blanket on the grass and enjoy a picnic or sit at a bench to watch people go by. Look up at the tall fortified walls that have survived centuries to tower over these gardens. Let kids try the challenge of the climbing frame made of ropes and the small train in a playground dwarfed by the rocky walls of the fortress.
Consider the rich history of the park, which was initially built by merchant Jean-Baptiste Dolle in 1785. Many of his additions, including terraces and a Roman house known as the Castle of Madness, were neglected after the French Revolution. Since its revitalization in the 1900s, it has become one of the green centers of activity in Grenoble.
Visit the garden daily from morning until late afternoon. It stays open a couple of hours later in summer and is always free to enter.
Jardin des Dauphins is in the bend of the Isère River that flows through the heart of Grenoble. Drive to this site on the northern boundary of the city center and leave your car in one of the Esplanade’s parking lots. Explore the region for other treasures such as the Musée Dauphinois Conservation du Patrimonie de l’Isère, the Pont Marius Gontard and the Jardin de Ville park.
