The park originated as a private estate purchased by the city of Hyères in the 1860s.
It houses a 'jardin zoologique' featuring various avian species and small mammals.
The site contains a diverse botanical collection, including multiple species of palms acclimated to the Mediterranean climate.
The park's namesake, Olbius Riquier, was a prominent local figure who bequeathed his property to the commune.
Parc Olbius Riquier is a seven-hectare botanical garden and leisure park established in the 19th century in Hyères. The park features a central lake, a small zoo, and expansive walking paths lined with exotic vegetation. It is well-known for its resident free-roaming peacocks that traverse the grounds. The botanical collection includes palm trees, rare plant species, and historical greenhouses. Additional amenities include a children's playground, a carousel, and a pond populated with ducks and swans. The layout emphasizes formal 19th-century landscaping principles mixed with naturalistic zones. It serves as a significant green space within the urban area, designed for both educational botanical appreciation and recreation.
The wooden bridge overlooking the central lake provides the best framing for waterfowl and the surrounding greenery.
Bring a camera ready for the peacocks, as they often approach visitors along the main paths.
Pack a light picnic, though be mindful of the birds who may attempt to share your food.
Visit the greenhouses to see subtropical plants that thrive in the local climate.
Avoid visiting during the height of the midday sun in summer, as shade is concentrated but limited in the open grassy areas.
Open daily throughout the year, though specific garden sections may close briefly for seasonal maintenance.
Maintain a respectful distance from the peacocks and do not feed the animals human food.
