Paris is a beautiful place to visit at any time of the year but none more so than autumn when the metropolis’ parks are turning glorious shades of red, orange, and gold. The temperature is perfect for strolling around and exploring these beautiful oases of calm nestled colourfully amongst the grey buildings of the metropolis.
The historic Bois de Vincennes to the east of Paris has an English style landscape and is four times larger than Hyde Park in London. One of the park’s main features is the magnificent Château de Vincennes, formerly a second home for French royalty and a must-see for any visitor. More of the park’s attractions include a hippodrome, velodrome and zoo where you can see elephants and mouflons amongst other animals. Amongst its four lakes, you will also discover the Arboretum de l’École du Breuil which showcases an amazing variety of around 2000 different types of trees and shrubs.
The Bois de Boulogne is the remaining part of the old oak forest of Rouvray. In Paris’ 16th arrondissement, it is 2½ times larger than New York’s Central Park. Featuring the Jardin d’Acclimatation, a large amusement park complete with ménagerie and other attractions, the park is one of the main draws for Parisians at the weekend. Here you will find city dwellers relaxing, reading, jogging, biking, rowing and picnicking. The park also hosts the Hippodrome de Longchamp and the Jardin des Serres d’Auteuil, a beautiful botanical garden set within a major greenhouse complex.
Being France’s main botanical garden, it is little surprise that the Jardin des Plantes also incorporates a botanical school. Situated in the 5th arrondissement, visitors can visit the park’s part of the National Natural History Museum which encompasses the Paleontology and the Entomology Museum, the Grande Galerie de l’Évolution, and the Mineralogy Museum. Further attractions include the art deco wintergarden, an Alpine garden, a rose garden and Mexican and Australian hothouses where many exotic plants flourish. The Jardin des Plantes also features a small zoo.
The Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, located in Paris’ 19th arrondissement, is quite unique. It encompasses over five kilometres of paths and trailways and is one of Paris’ largest parks. Wandering around you will encounter bridges, cliffs, mounts, exotic trees, lakes, a grotto complete with waterfall and several English and Chinese gardens. The park is also home to three restaurants, two reception halls, and two Guignol theatres, making it perfect for an autumnal family picnic.
Come to Paris and experience the more natural side of the capital. The 4 star Hotel Bassano would love to welcome you and look after you during your stay.
