A nature break in the heart of the city
For the sheer pleasure of walking, playing, running and recharging your batteries, here are five ideas for getting out and about even in winter.
The jardin des Plantes
At the jardin des Plantes, there are free-range chickens, century-old trees, beautiful statues, a host of activities for children… and two footbridges leading to the Royal and Grand-Rond gardens. At the main entrance to the garden is Le Muséum, a must-see for fans of life sciences.
The Canal du Midi
Pierre-Paul Riquet is the man behind this structure, which was designed to transport freight. Now a World Heritage site, it can be explored on foot, by bike or by boat. It is linked to the Garonne via the remarkable Brienne canal.
The Japanese Garden
At the heart of Compans-Caffarelli Park lies a haven of peace, the jardin Japonais, with a pond spanned by a red bridge, a tea pavilion and a decor of stone and plants inspired by the Orient… In April, don’t miss the spectacle of the cherry blossom!
Chateau de Reynerie and park
In the Mirail quarter, the Parc de la Reynerie plays with symmetry and perspective. This little-known formal garden is a peaceful spot to stroll through while admiring the 18th-century château.
Along the waterways…
On the banks of the Garonne
The Garonne flows right through the heart of the city offering a multitude of walks and viewpoints!
Left Bank
If you walk along the 16th-century ramparts in the Raymond-VI Gardens, you’ll come to a flight of steps, a belvedere and, finally, a footbridge that crosses over a waterfall.
Right Bank
It’s a delight to admire the views from La Daurade, with the river, La Grave, the Pont Neuf, the Hotel-Dieu… Below are the port where sand dredgers moored their barges, and a morgue where the drowned victims of the Garonne were once laid to rest.
The Villes et Villages Fleuris label
The city of Toulouse has been awarded the ‘four flowers’ label by Villes et Villages Fleuris. This label is awarded to municipalities that are committed to planting public spaces, preserving natural resources and biodiversity, and creating islands of freshness, while adapting to environmental challenges.
Since 2017, Toulouse City Council has been managing its green spaces in a more environmentally friendly way, without using chemicals. Zero pesticides, late mowing and eco-grazing help to preserve fresh soil, rich local flora and biodiversity, particularly on the 10 hectares of Les Argoulets.
In 2024, 5,060 m² of flower meadows were created on 13 sites, including 9 orchards, to strengthen nature in the city and increase acceptance of tall grass. These meadows beautify Toulouse while promoting wildlife: the presence of pollinators can be multiplied by 23 in the first year.
