Located at an altitude of 2 m above the famous Col du Lautaret, discover this botanical treasure in the heart of the Écrins.

Follow the path that will take you around the world of high-altitude plants and let yourself be surprised by a moment of unexpected beauty. Whether you are passionate about flora or not, the Jardin du Lautaret will captivate you with the majesty of its panorama and the magic of the floral colors.


The largest collection of

mountain plants

Eric Beaulet
Specimen from the Lautaret Garden

The Jardin du Lautaret houses an impressive collection of plants from mountain ranges around the world. With more than 2 different species, it is a European reference in the world of botany. In this garden, you will encounter rare plants, often endemic, and learn about their properties (medicinal, toxic or food). 


The Lautaret Garden,

an open-air laboratory

This garden is also and above all a research site. Attached to the University of Grenoble Alpes and the CNRS, scientists come here to study the effects of climate change on mountain ecosystems. You will be able to learn about current environmental issues, while observing experiments in progress.

Celine Viola
Lautaret garden
Lautaret garden

Did you know ? 

The Jardin du Lautaret, founded in 1899 by botanist Jean-Paul Lachmann, aimed to study and protect alpine plants and raise public awareness about their conservation. From the moment it opened, the site was already very popular with visitors. Col du Lautaret was chosen because of its position at the intersection of the northern and southern Alps, and its geological and climatic diversity, allowing it to mountain hut 1 species, or 500/1 of the French flora. 


An exceptional natural setting

Celine Viola
Lautaret garden

The Jardin du Lautaret will fascinate you with its contrasts. In this mountain environment, dominated by cold rocks and steep peaks, lush vegetation flourishes. Thousands of brightly coloured plants emerge between the stones and small streams, forming a vibrant picture, facing the Écrins.


Things to know before your visit

  • Flower picking is strictly prohibited within the grounds of the Jardin du Lautaret.
  • Most of the trails are suitable for people with reduced mobility and strollers.
  • Pets are not allowed in the garden.
  • Au Col du Lautaret, you will find something to eat.

When to come?

Opening hours from June 07 to September 07, 2025
Monday Open from 10 a.m to 18 p.m
Tuesday Open from 10 a.m to 18 p.m
Wednesday Open from 10 a.m to 18 p.m
Thursday Open from 10 a.m to 18 p.m
Friday Open from 10 a.m to 18 p.m
Saturday Open from 10 a.m to 18 p.m
Sunday Open from 10 a.m to 18 p.m

Open every day, including weekends and public holidays


Location – Contact

Closed
Sommet du Col du Lautaret Col du Lautaret
05480 Villar-d’Arêne
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