Mediterranean gardens embody relaxed elegance, natural textures, sun-drenched colours, and fragrant plantings. On the Côte d’Azur, outdoor spaces are as important as indoor living, offering areas for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying the region’s exceptional climate.
At Baie des Anges, we design gardens that combine beauty, low maintenance, and harmony with the Mediterranean landscape. Here are the top landscaping ideas for creating timeless Riviera gardens.
1. Planting Mediterranean Icons: Olive, Citrus, and Cypress Trees
Signature Mediterranean trees bring structure, personality, and shade to outdoor spaces.
Ideal choices include:
- Olive trees — sculptural, drought-resistant, and iconic
- Citrus trees (lemon, orange, mandarin) — evergreen foliage and seasonal fragrance
- Italian cypress — tall, elegant, perfect for framing entrances or views
- Pine and stone pine — adding coastal character and shade
These species thrive in the Côte d’Azur climate and create an immediate Mediterranean atmosphere.
2. Use Native, Drought-Resistant Plants for Easy Maintenance
Mediterranean gardens favour plants that thrive in hot, dry summers and mild winters.
Recommended plants:
- lavender
- rosemary
- thyme
- sage
- oleander
- bougainvillea
- agave and aloe
- Mediterranean grasses
These plants reduce water usage, attract pollinators, and offer fantastic colour and fragrance year-round.
3. Create Gravel or Stone Pathways
Natural pathways give structure and charm to gardens.
Best materials:
- warm gravel or crushed stone
- limestone pavers
- terracotta tiles
- river pebbles
Curved paths emphasise movement and discovery while blending seamlessly into the terrain.
4. Add Dry Stone Walls for Authentic Provençal Structure
Dry stone walls are a hallmark of Mediterranean landscaping—beautiful, functional, and durable.
They work perfectly for:
- defining garden levels
- supporting terraces on hillside properties
- creating rustic borders
- adding visual interest and authenticity
Baie des Anges specialises in stone craftsmanship that respects traditional techniques.
5. Build Shaded Pergolas for Outdoor Living
A pergola creates a comfortable retreat from the sun and extends outdoor living spaces.
Top pergola options include:
- natural wood pergolas covered with vines
- aluminium structures for modern villas
- pergolas with retractable shading
- pergolas integrated with outdoor kitchens or lounges
Climbing plants such as jasmine, wisteria, and bougainvillea enhance beauty and scent.
6. Integrate Water Features for Tranquillity
Water features add a refreshing ambiance and luxurious touch.
Options include:
- small reflective pools
- stone fountains
- modern wall-mounted water features
- natural-style ponds
The gentle sound of water elevates sensory comfort and elegance.
7. Choose Mediterranean Ground Covers for Colour and Texture
Low-maintenance ground covers reduce weeds and add softness.
Recommended choices:
- creeping thyme
- gravel with aromatic herbs
- lantana
- Mediterranean creeping rosemary
These options thrive in sun and require little water.
8. Build Terraced Gardens on Sloped Properties
The Alpes-Maritimes region includes many hillside villas. Terracing allows homeowners to:
- make efficient use of sloped land
- reduce erosion
- create multiple garden zones
- enhance views of the sea or valley
Terraced landscaping is both practical and visually striking.
9. Use Natural Stone for Patios and Terraces
Stone is timeless and perfectly suited to the Riviera climate.
Top choices:
- travertine
- limestone
- sandstone
- slate
These materials stay cool underfoot and create elegant Mediterranean outdoor living areas.
10. Add Outdoor Dining and Lounge Areas
Mediterranean gardens revolve around social living.
Baie des Anges designs:
- shaded outdoor dining spaces
- outdoor kitchens or BBQ areas
- cushioned lounge areas
- poolside relaxation zones
These spaces turn gardens into year-round extensions of the villa.
11. Incorporate Artistic and Sculptural Elements
Mediterranean gardens often feature decorative accents such as:
- terracotta pots
- ceramic planters
- stone sculptures
- wrought-iron lanterns
- mosaic features
These elements add personality and celebrate regional craftsmanship.
12. Use Lighting to Highlight Plants and Architecture
Evening lighting transforms the garden’s atmosphere.
Recommended solutions:
- uplighting for trees (especially olive and cypress)
- soft path lighting
- lanterns for terraces
- subtle LED strips along stone features
Warm lighting enhances texture and creates a magical nighttime ambiance.
Design Your Mediterranean Garden with Baie des Anges
A Mediterranean garden is more than landscaping—it is an experience of beauty, calm, and Riviera charm. Baie des Anges designs and builds outdoor spaces that reflect the region’s traditions, climate, and lifestyle.
From terraces and planting schemes to stonework and outdoor living zones, we create gardens that feel timeless, luxurious, and in harmony with nature.