The C.C.E.A.M.E. acronym stands for Centre de Conservation et d'Etude des Arbres Méditerranéens et Exotiques.
The arboretum occupies part of the historical Mas Roussillon agricultural domain, which preserves traditional local land-use patterns.
The site acts as a living laboratory for testing which tree species best tolerate the increasing aridity caused by climate change in the Roussillon plain.
The garden hosts rare botanical specimens that are specific to the unique saline and wind-exposed environment of the Mediterranean coast.
The park is maintained by volunteers and associations dedicated to protecting regional biodiversity rather than purely decorative horticulture.
The Arboretum C.C.E.A.M.E. is a specialized botanical garden and educational site located on the Mas Roussillon estate in Canet-en-Roussillon. It serves as a conservation space focused on the Mediterranean flora and the natural ecosystems of the Pyrénées-Orientales region. The grounds feature a diverse collection of trees, shrubs, and perennial plants curated to demonstrate climate-resilient gardening. Managed by a dedicated local association, the site functions primarily as a center for ecological research and public environmental awareness. Visitors can explore various botanical zones that highlight biodiversity, including sections dedicated to local heritage species. It acts as an open-air classroom providing resources on sustainable landscaping and soil health for the regional agricultural context. The site integrates traditional rural architecture with managed natural landscape design.
The central observation area that overlooks the collection of mature exotic and Mediterranean trees.
Bring a hat and high-SPF sunscreen, as much of the arboretum is open and exposed to direct Mediterranean sunlight.
Check the official website before traveling for notice of guided tour availability or volunteer gardening workshops.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes, as the paths consist of natural earth and gravel surfaces.
Do not visit during heavy wind events, as the open plains around Canet are subject to strong Tramontane gusts.
The site is typically closed during heavy rain or extreme weather events; often functions with variable hours based on association volunteer availability.
Do not collect seeds, cuttings, or plants; stay on marked paths to protect soil health; keep noise levels low as this is a research site.
