A 2.5 hectare park surrounding a serpentine pool and a rock grotto.
The park was inaugurated at the same time as the Casino in 1880. A number of trees that are now over a hundred years old were planted to mark the occasion, including the cedar and sequoia on either side of the lake. The original entrance, on the allée des Bains side, is flanked by 2 small symmetrical pavilions, linked by an ornate gate, the only vestige of the superb fence that once encircled the park.
The park is the work of landscape gardener Chevallier, who freely drew his inspiration from the garden layout of the spa town over an area of almost 4 hectares. The view is based on the Casino / Port de Vénasque axis.
Opposite the Casino, Chevallier created a first space that illustrates the idea of controlled nature: chestnut trees planted in staggered rows structure the esplanade.
In a second plan, an open-air theatre overlooking the lake was laid out, making it possible to host a number of shows, including the first performance of “Les Romanesques” with Edmond Rostand and his family. The Compagnons de la chanson and Charles Trenet have also performed here.
Behind it, an English-style park has been laid out to reflect the idea of recreating nature. The romantic character of this garden is enhanced by undulating paths shaded by harmoniously planted trees. A stream meanders from the grotto to the pond. The park is planted with a variety of tree species, in keeping with the 19th century craze for all the new species discovered and brought back from the colonies by overseas travellers.
The Port de Vénasque can be seen in the background, illustrating the idealised nature of the area. Like a backdrop, the Pyrenees are an integral part of the composition of the Casino park. They are the culmination of the park’s composition.
Near the grotto, the marble statue “Le Baiser à la Source”, by Henri Coutheillas, dates from 1908. This erotic scene, originally placed in the Elysée gardens, depicts a naked young man bending over to kiss a young woman, the personification of a spring.
Behind the Casino, the boulodrome has 3 playing fields and welcomes a large number of amateurs and tournaments throughout the year.
