Visiting Mugel Park, a botanical oasis beneath a giant
Tucked into a small cove in the shadow of the massive Bec de l'Aigle, Mugel Park is an unexpected splash of green on the coastline of La Ciotat. This garden, protected from the mistral winds by the looming cliffs, benefits from a unique microclimate. It offers a sensory escape where the scent of aromatic plants mingles with the sound of waves hitting the pebbles.
What makes Mugel Park unique?
More than just a park, Mugel Park serves as a botanical journey spanning nearly 17 hectares (about 42 acres). Its character comes from an incredible plant diversity that thrives thanks to the shelter of the Bec de l'Aigle and an ingenious rainwater collection system. Once private property before the city acquired it, this space is now a quiet sanctuary, recognized with the Jardin Remarquable (Remarkable Garden) label for its collection density and the layout of its grounds.
Exploring between gardens and wild nature
You can experience the park in two distinct ways. On one side, there is a landscaped garden where species from all over the world grow side by side. On the other, a wilder area climbs up the slopes of the rock face.
The garden of wonders
This tended section is a mosaic of different landscapes. You can wander through:
- A dense, cool bamboo grove.
- Collections of succulent plants and cacti.
- Palms representing thirty different species.
- Aromatic plants and typical Mediterranean flora like cork oaks and chestnut trees.
The climb to spectacular views
For those looking for a bit more activity, a trail leads up to a viewpoint situated at 82 meters of altitude (about 269 feet). The climb pays off with a view over the baie de La Ciotat (Bay of La Ciotat), the Île Verte (Green Island), and the open sea. It is the best spot to admire the majesty of the Bec de l'Aigle and its conglomerate cliffs, featuring the reddish rock that defines the area.
Insider tip: Make sure to head over to l'anse du Sec (Sec Cove), passing by the Atelier Bleu (Blue Workshop). This spot at the edge of the park offers a great view and rare quiet, even during the peak of summer. It is the perfect place for a moment of reflection.
A day for the whole family
Mugel Park is a complete destination. It houses two pebble coves, l'anse du Petit Mugel (Petit Mugel Cove) and l'anse du Grand Mugel (Grand Mugel Cove), which are great for a swim. Shaded picnic areas and playgrounds for children make it a solid choice for a family outing, mixing beach time, hiking, and botanical discovery.
Opening hours
*Information subject to change
I was expecting to find a botanical garden with lots of features showcasing different environments, different types of flowers, etc. In fact, most of the park is taken up by "wild" scrubland.
There are a few aromatic plants and fruit trees, but that is not what caught my attention. If you hike up to the heights, you will get spectacular views of the city and especially the Bec de l'Aigle, the cliff that overlooks the Calanques du Mugel.
Positive point: admission is free.