Vaux-le-Vicomte’s garden is the seminal expression of the Jardin à la française, the French aesthetic of formal gardens that swept Europe in the 17th century. From 1641, Nicolas Fouquet gave full rein to the genius of the renowned landscape gardener André Le Nôtre who used the latest technical, scientific and artistic knowledge of his era.
A pioneering work for the garden
Carved from 33 hectares (100 acres) of woodlands, the formal gardens were laid out along a three-kilometer axis to create a stunning setting for the château and its outbuildings. Working in close collaboration, Le Nôtre and the architect Louis Le Vau produced the greatest 17th century example of near perfect harmony between nature and the built environment.
The strong lines and nobility of the garden design, its changing vistas and hidden charms, and the symphony of fountains, all combine with theatrical majesty to make Vaux-le-Vicomte a masterpiece of the jardin à la française. This is the perfect “mise en scène” for discovery, fantasy and pleasure.
Exploring the gardens
Discover how the garden was laid out by viewing the permanent exhibition in the château’s basement “André Le Nôtre at Vaux-le-Vicomte, the seminal work of French Formal Garden” shown here.
Two itineraries have been created to guide you along the formal gardens, ensuring that you will not miss their thousand and one subtle details. There is also a treasure hunt for children whose itinerary follows the tracks of the “Little Squirrel.”
Following several diseases and attacks, the boxwood of the boulingrins have been replaced by a new work of art: Ephemeral Ribbons, by Patrick Hourcade. Learn more HERE!
Did you know? Israël Silvestre, famous 17th century drafter and engraver, is the author of numerous engravings presenting the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte and its gardens, during their construction:
