Le Rocher

A land linked island fit for a Prince

By Julia Revitt Photography

May 14^th, 2017

Le Rocher, is a rocky outcrop that juts out from Monaco into the Mediterranean Sea. Home to the Prince's Palace where the current Prince of Monaco resides, it also has a museum, winding old streets, cafes and a beautiful garden. Let's take a stroll around together...

Le Rocher as seen from the Jardin Exotique, Monaco

Place du Palais

Prince Rainer's home is something to behold. Built in 1191 and set on the rocky outcrop, it's an imposing building. Its turbulent past is evident in the cannons on display and the armed guards at the entrances.

Guards at the Palace. 11:55am to see the changing of the guard.

Beautiful ornamental chains line the entrance to the Prince's Palace

Military history is on display throughout Le Rocher

Saint Martin Gardens

These gardens are such a tranquil escape from the crowds found around the palace. Avoid the tour parties (or just wait 5 minutes as they never stay long) and you'll find secluded benches with beautiful views over the ocean.

The cacti and succulents are beautiful in the garden

Ancient and welcoming

The old streets are narrow and bustling with people and commerce. You can buy everything from a full Ferrari outfit (think Monaco GP) to a coffee and croissant.

Important to stay nourished and hydrated!

Superyachts, cruise liners and ancient ramparts

Art

There are permanent statues throughout Le Rocher and also more temporary installations from visiting artists.

Maritime links

Being right next to the Mediterranean Sea means that there are a lot of links to the ocean throughout Le Rocher. The views are domainated by the sea in one direction and Monaco in the other. This makes a fascinating combination of water and high rise.

Oceanographic Museum's imposing position

Statue of Prince Albert 1st overlooking the Mediterranean Sea

Oceanographic museum

A popular stop for the visiting crowds, the Oceanographic Museum was founded by Prince Albert I in 1906. The famous undersea explorer, Jacques Cousteau was the museum's director from 1957 to 1988. It's an impressive building with an equally impressive history and well worth a wander round.

Le Rocher is certainly popular with tourists but rightly so. Visit at the end of the day, when the light is golden, the tour groups have gone onto their next stop and you'll have the gardens, narrow streets and views to yourself. Take time to breathe in the scents from the flowers, feel the breeze from the ocean in your hair and appreciate the uniqueness of this amazing place.