Updated on May 15, 2026
Summary:
- A garden suspended between history and the Mediterranean
- Succulent plants from warm regions
- Flowers all year round
- Useful Information
- FAQ: Hanbury Botanical Garden in Ventimiglia
Located in Ventimiglia, a few minutes from Monaco, the Hanbury Botanical Garden extends over several hectares and brings together thousands of acclimatized plant species. Between history of the 19th century, botanical diversity and breathtaking views of the sea, the visit offers an experience both cultural and natural, accessible almost all year round.
With 3,500 varieties of plants, this acclimatization garden is one of the most beautiful in Italy. It unfolds at the border, just after Menton, on 9 hectares open to the public.
A garden suspended between history and the Mediterranean
The tour starts at Cap de la Mortola. There, along the flowery paths, planted paths and fountains, the gaze glides towards the sea nearly 100 meters below.
The history of this garden and its palazzo takes us back to the 19th century, when many British people wintered on the Riviera. While having made a fortune in China in the trade of spices, tea and silk, Thomas Hanbury returned to England, he no longer bore the weather. During a stay in Menton, while taking a boat trip to Italy, he then saw this promontory with which he fell in love. He acquired it in a few months," says Luigi Minuto, president of the Hanbury Botanical Garden. In 1867, the businessman and philanthropist bought the terraced villa, with breathtaking views of the Italian and French coasts. He landscaped the green spaces with the help of his brother Daniel, botanist and pharmacologist.
Having become the property of the Italian state, the estate is now managed by the University of Genoa. In 2017, H.S.H. Prince Albert II came to celebrate the 150th anniversary of this lush setting, classified as a protected area, by planting a camellia.
©GHB Daniela Guglielmi
Succulent plants from warm regions
The site covers 18 hectares. "We are in an acclimatization garden. Thomas Hanbury brought seeds and plants from America, Africa, and Australia. They were seeded and only those able to adapt naturally to the climate were preserved," continues Luigi Minuto.
The walk begins in the warmer part of the garden, among remarkable specimens of succulents: agaves, aloes and other "cushions of mother-in-law" piquant. Continuing the descent, the landscape is metamorphosed with sumptuous acacias and an Australian forest, dominated by a monumental araucaria planted in 1872 and melaleucas with soft bark like paper.
©GBH Daniela Guglielmi
Flowers all year round
Here, the tradition is to count all the plants in bloom at the beginning of January, as did Thomas Hanbury, who lived on site from autumn to spring. "We have identified nearly a hundred in 2025," says the director.
In the lower part, the exotic orchard and the collection of ancient citrus fruits accompany the visit up to the refreshment bar, on the seafront, lined with rare varieties of salvia with yellow, red and blue blooms.
©GBH Daniela Guglielmi
Located in Corso Montecarlo, 43 in La Mortola, in Ventimiglia, the Hanbury Gardens can be discovered almost all year round, throughout the seasons.
The site occasionally hosts art exhibitions on the ground floor of the palace, while its terraces, usually closed, are unveiled during the Heritage Days.
The estate also includes a marine protected area, offering the possibility to explore the coastline and observe marine mammals during sea trips, especially in the summer season.
- An exceptional botanical garden located on the border between France and Italy
- More than 3,500 varieties of plants from different continents
- A historic estate created in the 19th century by Thomas Hanbury
- A walk among exotic collections, varied landscapes and views of the sea
- A site open to the public with events and activities according to the season
On the French-Italian border, the Hanbury Botanical Garden offers a unique immersion between heritage, botany and Mediterranean landscapes. This historic site combines plant collections from around the world and exceptional views of the Riviera.
FAQ: Hanbury Botanical Garden in Monaco
When is the best time to visit Hanbury Botanic Garden?
The garden can be visited almost all year round, with flowers that evolve according to the seasons. Spring and early summer offer a great diversity of colors, while winter allows to discover some species in bloom in a quieter setting.
Where is the Hanbury Botanic Garden located
The garden is located in La Mortola, in Ventimiglia, Italy, a few minutes from the French border and Menton. It enjoys an exceptional location between sea and hills.
Is the site accessible all year round?
The Hanbury Botanic Garden is open almost all year round, with opening times that may vary depending on the season. Cultural events and exhibitions can also be offered from time to time.
Can we complement the visit with other activities?
Yes, the site also manages a marine protected area, allowing to organize trips at sea to discover marine mammals during the summer season.
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