If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway in Rennes, Parc du Thabor is the place to go. This beautiful park feels like something out of a fairytale, with its lovely gardens and historical features making every visit special.

A Walk Through Beauty and History

Parc du Thabor isn’t just any park. It’s a green oasis right in the heart of Rennes. Imagine walking through a garden with perfectly shaped hedges, winding paths, and a lovely rose garden. Whether you love gardening or just enjoy a nice walk, this park has something for you. (Of course, I love it all, so it was extra fun for me!)

How to Get There

The park is easy to reach if you’re in Rennes. You can walk or bike there from anywhere in the city, and it’s not hard. If you’re coming from farther away, you can take a train to Rennes and then walk or take a bus to the park. I tended to just use Google Maps but of course there’s maps and signs throughout the city that will help you get there.

Explore the Gardens

Parc du Thabor is filled with wildlife. There are multiple gardens of different types, and I wouldn’t be surprised if they somehow had all the plants that are possible to grow in France’s climate growing there.

The French gardens have neat, orderly plants, while the English gardens are more relaxed with winding paths and natural beauty. There is a rose garden with more types of roses than you can count! The strong smell of the roses surrounds you as you explore the garden, and that leads you into the other gardens. I have been to a lot of parks- free and not free- and this one is not only free, but probably the park with the most different types of plants, which is so amazing. I couldn’t believe I didn’t need a ticket to enter, and I was there almost everyday some weeks.

Discover the Park’s History

Parc du Thabor has a fascinating history. It was once part of a 17th-century monastery. As you walk around, you can still see parts of the old monastery walls and a lovely pavilion that give the park a historic feel. (It also makes for very pretty pictures.)

There are also mutliple fun facts about this park that you can find at the bottom of this article, so make sure to read those!

Enjoy the Peaceful Atmosphere

One of the best things about the park is how calm and peaceful it is. It’s a great place to get away from the busy city. You can sit on one of the many benches, read a book, or just enjoy the nature that surrounds you. There are even benches hidden within the overhanging trees, which shut you out entirely from the world. When I lived in Rennes, my friends and I would go study at the park almost everyday, and we never got tired of it because there were so many spots to sit.

Fun for Families and Kids

The Parc du Thabor is a fantastic place for families. There’s lots of space for kids to run around and play, including several playgrounds and big lawns perfect for picnics and games. Kids will also like the small pond with ducks and other wildlife, plus exploring the fun bridges. Anyone exploring this park will feel like they’re in a fairytale, so that makes it especially fun for kids! Just make sure that you’re keeping an eye on them, because with the size of this park it’s incredibly easy to get lost, even as an adult.

Seasonal Highlights

The park is special in every season. In spring, the flowers bloom in beautiful colors. Summer is great for enjoying the green landscape and outdoor events. In autumn, the falling leaves make the park look like a painting, and in winter, I imagine that the snowfall adds a magical touch! I wasn’t able to live there during the winter but I imagine that it’s like that, and I am hoping to go back and visit soon in the winter to see what it’s like.

Something for Everyone

As you explore the park, look out for its art and sculptures. The fountains and decorations make the park even more interesting. There are lots of paths and gardens to photograph, so don’t forget to take pictures of the park’s beauty.

Of course, if you’re not one for taking pictures, there’s a lot of benches to sit and read on, covered in shade or in the sun. It’s quite a big park, and there’s room for everyone to find something they enjoy.

Nearby Attractions

If you have more time, check out other cool spots in Rennes. The city center, with its old wooden houses and charming streets, is just a short walk away. Rennes is also famous for its delicious food, so be sure to try some local dishes. Even though Rennes isn’t directly next to the ocean, the seafood is quite good because it’s shipped in fresh from the surrounding cities that are near the ocean.

Fun facts about Le Parc du Thabor

The park features three different styles of gardens: French formal gardens, English landscape gardens, and a stunning rose garden. This mix of styles creates a unique and diverse experience as you explore the park.

There were some scenes of the TV show “Bridgerton” filmed at this park!

Parc du Thabor hosts various events throughout the year. From outdoor concerts to flower shows, there’s often something happening in the park. Check the park’s event calendar to see if there’s a special event during your visit.

Final Thoughts

Parc du Thabor is a wonderful place in Rennes with its mix of natural beauty and history. Whether you love nature, history, or just need a peaceful place to relax, this park is perfect. So put on your walking shoes, pack a picnic, and enjoy the magic of Parc du Thabor!

Thanks for reading! If you’re planning a trip to Rennes or want more travel tips, check out my article about my favorite library in all of France that’s also in Rennes! Have a great adventure!