Val Cocherel Garden, Dinan
Gardens in Dinan
Val Cocherel Garden is one of the must-see places in Dinan, a vibrant 4-hectare park officially named for the Cocherel stream that winds through it. Locals often call it Jardin des Petits Diables-the Garden of the Little Devils-a nickname that hints at its playful, family-friendly atmosphere. Set in the heart of the city, this lush haven blends natural beauty with recreational fun, making it a favourite spot for both residents and visitors.
The garden offers everything from play structures to mini-golf, shaded picnic areas, and a charming collection of animals, including Gadichon the donkey, who has called the park home for 33 years. With a kiosk serving ice creams and refreshments, beautifully maintained green spaces, and a lovely rose garden, Val Cocherel Garden is a highlight of any walking tour of Dinan for families and nature lovers alike.
Table of Contents
- History and Significance of Val Cocherel Garden
- Things to See and Do in Val Cocherel Garden
- How to Get to Val Cocherel Garden
- Practical Tips on Visiting Val Cocherel Garden
- Where to Stay close to Val Cocherel Garden
- Is Val Cocherel Garden Worth Visiting?
- FAQs for Visiting Val Cocherel Garden
- Nearby Attractions to Val Cocherel Garden
History and Significance of Val Cocherel Garden
Named after the Cocherel stream running through it, Val Cocherel Garden has long been one of Dinan's most cherished green spaces. Over the decades, it has evolved into a joyful public park designed to bring together leisure, nature, and community life. Its alternative name, Jardin des Petits Diables, reflects its popularity with children and its emphasis on play and outdoor fun.
The park owes much of its charm to the dedication of Jean-Marc, who has been its gardener and animal keeper for 30 years. His care has shaped the lawns, flowerbeds, and animal enclosures that make the garden both lively and inviting. Yet even Jean-Marc is outmatched in longevity by Gadichon, the beloved donkey who has been part of the garden’s landscape for 33 years and remains an endearing favourite among visitors.
The combination of natural waterways, curated gardens, animal companions, and urban accessibility creates a unique green oasis. It is not just a park but a place where generations have relaxed, played, and created memories.
Things to See and Do in Val Cocherel Garden
Families will find plenty to enjoy here. Children can explore play areas equipped with swings, slides, and open spaces perfect for carefree afternoons. The mini-golf course and ping-pong tables add extra layers of fun, while shaded picnic zones allow families to settle in comfortably for lunch or a break between activities.
Animal lovers will appreciate the small collection of friendly residents, especially Gadichon the donkey, who has become something of a local celebrity. Other animals add to the park’s charm, making it an engaging stop for younger visitors. A kiosk in the park provides drinks, ice creams, and sandwiches-ideal for refuelling on warm sunny days.
The rose garden brings a quieter, more contemplative side to the park. Well-tended and full of colour, it offers a peaceful corner for adults while the children play nearby. With its mix of greenery, activities, and community spirit, the park is one of the things to do in Dinan for visitors looking for a relaxing day outdoors.
How to Get to Val Cocherel Garden
The nearest major airport is Rennes-Saint-Jacques Airport, located about an hour from Dinan. From the airport, visitors can travel to the city via car or regional public transport. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Dinan on Booking.com.
Dinan is accessible by train, with regular services from Rennes and Saint-Malo arriving at Dinan station. From the station, the garden is reachable on foot or by local bus, as it lies within the urban area. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.
Travelling by car is straightforward, with Dinan well connected by local roads. Parking areas are located around the city centre, making it easy to walk to the park once you have arrived. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Practical Tips on Visiting Val Cocherel Garden
- Best time to visit Val Cocherel Garden: Spring and summer for blooming gardens and warm weather playtime.
- Entrance fee in Euros: The park is free to enter.
- Opening hours: Open daily as a public park; kiosk and mini-golf have seasonal hours.
- Official website: Check Dinan tourism sites for updates on facilities and events.
- How long to spend: Allow 1-2 hours depending on activities.
- Accessibility: Paths are generally accessible; play areas may include uneven surfaces.
- Facilities: Playgrounds, picnic areas, kiosk, animals, mini-golf, ping-pong tables.
- Photography tip: The rose garden and stream offer lovely natural compositions.
- Guided tours: The park is typically explored independently.
- Nearby food options: Cafés and bakeries in central Dinan are within walking distance.
Where to Stay close to Val Cocherel Garden
Staying in Dinan provides convenient access to the garden and the rest of the medieval town. Hôtel Arvor offers charm near the town centre and local attractions. For a boutique stay, La Maison Pavie blends design and heritage within a short walk of parks and historic streets. Visitors seeking riverside tranquillity can choose Mercure Dinan Port, with scenic pathways leading toward town.
Is Val Cocherel Garden Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Val Cocherel Garden is a delightful escape in the heart of Dinan, ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful outdoor space. Its blend of greenery, play areas, animals, and community warmth creates a welcoming environment that adds charm and variety to any visit to the town.
What Other Travellers Say...
Petits Diables Garden in Dinan is a family-friendly free park just off the promenade with lawns and picnic spots, tables, play areas and a mini golf; visitors praise its pleasant gardens, a small collection of birds and other animals, nearby parking, and amenities like food kiosks (some note public toilets can be hard to locate), making it a relaxed spot for kids and groups to spend a few hours.
FAQs for Visiting Val Cocherel Garden
Nearby Attractions to Val Cocherel Garden
- Dinan Ramparts - Walkable medieval walls with sweeping town views.
- Port of Dinan - A peaceful riverside area with cafés and boats.
- Governor's House - A 15th-century artisan home with historical exhibits.
- Château de Léhon - Atmospheric castle ruins with panoramic views.
- Saint-Magloire Abbey - A tranquil historic monastery alongside the river.
The Val Cocherel Garden appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Dinan!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
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Planning Your Visit
Opening of the garden:
Summer: From April 1 to September 30: 8:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Winter: From October 1 to March 30: 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Opening of the kiosk:
from April 1 to September 30, open 7 days a week, from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
from October 1 to November 15, open Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. or 5:30 p.m.
Nearby Attractions
- Château de Dinan (0.2) km
Castle - Place des Merciers (0.2) km
Historic Building - Tour de l’Horloge (0.2) km
Historic Building - Saint-Malo Church (0.3) km
Church - Basilique St-Saveur (0.4) km
Basilica - Rue du Jerzual (0.4) km
Street - Porte de Jerzual (0.5) km
City Gate - Dinan Ramparts (0.5) km
City Gate and City Walls - Governor’s House (0.6) km
Historic Building - Vieux Pont, Lanvallay, Dinan (0.6) km
Bridge
