Parc botanique de la Tour Vieille

Alès, France, France

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The Parc botanique de la Tour Vieille is a 2-hectare municipal botanical park located on the southern outskirts of Alès, Gard, France, named after an historic tower within its grounds.

Created in the 19th century by an enthusiastic amateur botanist who collected exotic plants, the park was abandoned for several years before being purchased by the city of Alès in 1973. The park's botanical collection has grown significantly since its first inventory in 1990, which recorded 200 species, and today features over 700 plant species and varieties, including 200 rare specimens.

Visitors can enjoy Mediterranean plants, century-old trees, shrubs, aquatic basins, and beautiful glass greenhouses, all maintained using ecological methods that prioritize mulching and water conservation. The park offers a serene retreat from the city with fresh ponds, walking paths, a children's playground for ages 3–12, and a mini-golf course (equipment not provided).

Open daily except Monday from 10:00 to 17:30 (October–March) or 10:00 to 20:00 (April–September), admission is free, though guided tours can be arranged through the tourism office. The park is easily accessible by foot or car, with parking available just meters from the entrance on Avenue d'Anduze.