Les Jardins de l'Imaginaire — Attraction in Sarlat-la-Canéda

Having read the five star reviews of the gardens, but mindful of some poor reviews we visited on a wet and dreary afternoon after a walk around Terrasson. Firstly, the old town with its narrow little streets leading up to the pretty church, is delightful. There are quirky and original shops with a choice of eateries to suit every taste and pocket. The gardens are just a short walk beyond the beautiful building where you purchase your ticket, and we found the staff helpful and knowledgeable. They apologised for the weather and produced a laminated version of their guide. The gardens themselves are the result of an international competition. The winners, Kathryn Gustafson, who produced the garden landscaping and planting scheme, and architect Ian Richie have produced something quite wonderful. We saw the gardens in the rain and with only a limited number of plants in flower, but the overall concept and design really spoke to us. In addition the views over the Vesere and the town are panoramic. As we left after about two hours we considered those negative reviews we had seen and decided that some people have no soul. What are they expecting? The hanging gardens of Babylon or herds of wildebeest roaming the plain (to coin a phrase)? All for €8, really? Ignore them and visit. If you’re going with children take a spare set of clothes, they will surely want to run through...

Great gardens, with varied and interesting water features, spoiled by only being opened to guided tours. So no time to wander the endless paths, contemplate the installations, sit on any of the stone benches, or enjoy anything really. The girl giving the tour was very nice and friendly, but a garden of this nature is about being outside and close to nature, not wandering about with a bunch of tourists listening to the story of x, y and z. It's still a nice place to be, and the rest of Terrason is well worth the visit, so don't let this put you off entirely,...

So beautiful! Ethereal Even after the flowering season, the garden is a work of art. Playing to every single one of your senses to bring you into this magical land, center you in the present, as well as look into the past and future. Every section is a new wonder. The best space was le jardin de l'eau. Refreshing, relaxing, and beautiful in every way. Hughly recommend at any time but it js particularly beautiful in spring and...