A garden so enchanting that it’s protected as a French National Monument. Like many of Menton's gardens the Serre de la Madone was planted by an eccentric Englishman, this time Lawrence Johnston who created Britain's Hidcote Manor. Fountains and pergolas are shaded by strawberry trees and umbrella pines. Caught the garden bug? Menton’s more private botanical gems include Jardin Maria Serena (by guided tour only, Monday 10am and Friday 2:30pm, 6€), Fontana Rosa (by guided tour only, Monday and Friday both at 10am, 6€), and L’Orangeraie (open Thursday 10am–4pm only, 6€).