Paris is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. The architecture, the colors, the light — it’s all, as cliche as it sounds, magical. One of my favorite parts of the city are the gardens that seem to bloom at every corner. There are topiary and roses just about everywhere and while I have a few places, like the Tuileries and the Palais Royale, a recent discovery on my last visit to the city has become one of my favorite new spots.

Located down a side street in the upper 3rd arrondismenet, the Jardin Saint-Gilles-Grand Veneur is a dreamy wonderland of peace and quiet. Far from the hustle and bustle, I love this garden because it’s possibly one of the least touristy spots I’ve been to in the heart of the city, and yet it’s also one of the most beautiful. The garden is backed by a magnificent view of the façade of the Hôtel du Grand Veneur townhouse, a resplendant building from the 17th century, but the main draw are of course the roses.

Hidden between the facades of buildings of the 3rd district, this garden is located down a side street in the upper 3rd arrondisement of Paris. To find it, take either the rue de Hesse or the rue des Arquebusiers, and cross the small porch in front of you.