Even if you loathe botanical gardens, and even if you only visit one in Menton, we beg you to come here. Menton’s microclimate has reared a leafy wonderland within its protective walls. Fragrant paths weave past giant Amazon water lillies, Buddha’s Hand citruses from Thailand, and flowering toromiro trees from Easter Island. The scene is most magical within the black bamboo plantation, where sunlight dapples a babbling brook. Menton’s other botanical gardens include Serre de la Madone. They were designed and owned by American heir Lawrence Johnston, whose family made their fortune in the Klondike gold rush.