Jaÿsinia Alpine Botanical Garden

Free alpine botanical garden climbing the slope above Samoëns village.

Jaÿsinia is the best single thing in Samoëns village: a steep, free botanical garden climbing the south-facing slope above the old centre. Paths wind past alpine plants, trees, cascades, and viewpoints over the roofs and valley.

It opened in the early 20th century and is still devoted to mountain flora. You do not need to be a botanist to enjoy it. The walk is short but sharp, and the combination of flowers, stone walls, and mountain views makes it a fine first stop after arriving.

things to do sight garden
A story
The garden was created by Marie-Louise Cognac-Jaÿ, a Samoëns native who co-founded the La Samaritaine department store in Paris. Her gift turned a steep village hillside into one of the Alps' loveliest public gardens.

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