Upon coming out from under the canopy of trees, one immediately feels the contrast between the cool air of the woods, and the strong heat and intense light of the Potager”. Situated away from the bottom of the hills in the rustic countryside, the “Potager”, built in 1745, nearly covers 2,5 acres in size. On an impressive artificial island, the garden is surrounded by canals and pink brick walls built in 1745) topped by slated on a framework of oak.Until 1995, this vegetable garden was used for hay, but has since then been completely reconstructed. Its restoration began with the walls and roofs after a great storm in 1999, then the progressive renovation of the canals, flowerbeds, and banks followed, with a traditional technique of weaving willow branches used for the banks.

The micro climate of the “Potager”, surrounded by canals, is perfect for the direct planting in the ground of Peach trees, Fig trees, Guava trees from Brazil, and more. Its walls are adorned with impressive and flower-adorned espaliered pear trees from the 18th century, including a rare specimen with 32 branches and a circumference of 1.06 meters. The banks of the canals are enhanced by two piers where one can truly allow themselves to drift into a sweet reverie.
The vegetable garden is a conglomeration of plant life and flowers: hedges of small fruits, flowerbeds, vegetables (including 20 varieties of tomatoes), a collection of cucurbit, a herb garden interspersed with slices of sequoia to facilitate its upkeep; and a garden of medicinal herbs organized by their ancient uses, including stress, insomnia, dermatology, heart, blood, kidneys, etc.

Planted and sustained with careful wisdom and hard work, this historic place invites one to stop to enjoy the serenity of a moment of introspection in its charming yet restrained setting.

The Orangery was constructed in 1746. Against a backdrop of the tall, shingled roof of the Château, the architectural ensemble created by the Church of St. Cecile, the Hermitage and the Orangery is the perfect surrounding for the citrus trees found lining the path. The citrus plants are also complimented by the surrounding colors: the pink bricks of the building, the grey of the lavender plants, and the blue sculptures of the Arizona Cypress. A handsome Italian-inspired garden too confirms that Acquigny is designed to pleasure the senses and to instill deep contemplation in those who experience its splendor.

Vegetables from the Mediterranean and other hot climates decorate the façade of the orangery – Jasminum officinalis, pomegranates, passion vines, Fremontodendron Californicum, vines- each transporting one into an enchanting universe of delicate perfumes.