Jardin Des Fontaines Pétrifiantes
About
The Jardin des Fontaines Pétrifiantes is a living laboratory of nature created in 1994 in the village of La Sône, Isère. Here, water sculpts the earth into spectacular tufières (calcite‑covered plants) and a cascade that has become an icon of the Vercors plateau. The garden is a tapestry of more than 800 exotic species, Mediterranean, aquatic and tropical plants, arranged in playful pathways and artful installations that invite visitors to stroll, observe, and photograph. From the petrification phenomenon to the crystal‑glazed glasshouses, every corner offers a unique sensory experience. An on‑site restaurant, the Côté‑Jardin, serves home‑made dishes featuring local produce, and a terrace offers a shaded spot to relax. Guided by the garden’s designers, the space encourages families, nature lovers, botanists and photographers to discover the hidden wonders of calcite‑laced foliage and water‑etched rock. It is open from 10:00 to 17:45 every day, with the last entrance at 16:30 and a closing ceremony at 17:45. A free ticket is available for visitors under four years, while other admission options range from 7 € for children (4‑10 years) to 12 € for adults.
Highlights
- Petrification Phenomenon
- Cascade
- Crystal Glasshouses
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
Late spring through early autumn when the garden’s plant life is at its most vivid and the weather is pleasantly warm
Frequently Asked Questions
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes