With four lakes, woodlands galore and meadows full of flowers, this 995-hectare haven is a dream come true for walkers and joggers.
Did you know ?
This really is a biodiversity breeding-ground! Covering 10% of the surface area of Paris, the Bois de Vincennes is home to some 500 species of wild plants, attracts birds in their thousands and teems with mammals, reptiles and insects.
Why not join a guided bike tour of these woods, or visit the colonial vestiges of the Jardin d’Agronomie Tropicale (tropical agronomy garden) ?
On your marks, Get set, Breathe!
Life through a green lens? You’re in the right place! The paths lined with ancient oaks, maples and pines will help you forget the hustle and bustle of Paris. The absolute calm of this place is interrupted only by the song of blue tits, blackbirds and warblers. With 450 hectares of forest, 80 hectares of gardens and 7.8 km of rivers, the Bois de Vincennes is a gem of biodiversity and a joy to visit in any season.
If you go down to the woods today…
Walking, cycling or jogging, visit the woods whichever way you choose! You may want to explore off the beaten track, or stick to the designated paths. Keen walkers can pick up the GR14 hiking trail at the Porte Dorée (gate) and follow it along the Gravelle stream to the Hippodrome (racetrack). Fancy something more energetic? Three trails are fitted with various pieces of fitness equipment which will keep your biceps busy and work those tummy muscles!
Activities galore for kids of all ages
You’ll also find the Parc Floral here, as well as Paris’s world-famous Vincennes Hippodrome, the Cartoucherie theatres, the Parc Zoologique, and the Arboretum which houses 2,000 specimens! If you bring the children, expect them to cry for more! Why? Because they’re going to love the Ferme Pédagogique (children’s farm), the Théâtre de Marionnettes (puppet theatre) and the lovely old carousel. Unless they’d prefer a pony ride or a boat trip… They’ll be spoilt for choice!
