6 “Picnic Worthy” Lakes In & Near Paris That No One Talks About
Home to monuments, bistros and boutiques that tempt you to shop until you drop, Paris is a city that is as iconic as they come. Exploring famous structures like the Eiffel Tower and checking out the lively café scene is a must. When you want to take a breather, you can head to the popular lakes of Paris which are incredibly picturesque and serene.
Relaxing walks and boat rides will help you relax before going back to the hustle and bustle of the city. If you want a little more activity, you can head to the lakes just a short distance from the capital, where swimming and kayaking are favorite pastimes.
The top lakes in Paris and beyond that should be part of your itinerary
Choose from these 6 best lakes in and around Paris and include them in your itinerary for a refreshing break from the usual sightseeing.
1. Willett Basin
The Bassin de la Villette is one of the more famous lakes of Paris. It is the largest artificial lake and connects two canals together, the Canal de l’Ourcq and the Canal Saint-Martin. It is a place of exciting activities at different times of the year. It is one of the few lakes near the Eiffel Tower in Paris, just over 10 kilometers away. Hugely popular with Parisians, you can join in the fun by swimming, attending shows and concerts, and picnicking along the banks.
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2. Minims Lake
Lac de Minimes is another lake in Paris, also in the Bois de Vincennes. It is smaller than Lac Dumesnil but no less picturesque. You can take a leisurely walk along the paths, take a boat ride to explore the lake and enjoy a meal at the café. If bird watching is your hobby, take along a binocular as there are good chances of spotting kingfishers and gray herons.
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3. Lower Lake
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Another major green lung of the city is the Bois de Boulogne which is home to beautiful gardens, lakes and a campground for those who want to sleep under the stars. Of the lakes, Lac Inferiere is the largest and has an island that you can reach by boat. Also try to check out the rest of the sights like the Ruisseau de Longchamp and the Grand Cascade Waterfall.
4. Leisure Island St. Quentin en Yvelines
Unlike the lakes of the Bois de Vincennes and the Bois de Boulogne, the Île de Loisirs Saint Quentin en Yvelines is a hotspot for activities such as mini golf, kayaking and barbecues. This is one of the best lakes in Paris (25 kilometers away from the city) for those hoping to experience some adventure. Plan a day out with the family as it has the perfect mix of activities for kids and adults. You can also spend the night in a yurt furnished with traditional Mongolian furniture and decor. Note: Yurt rentals are only available for overnight stays from Saturday to Sunday.
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5. Lac Dumesnil
Lac Dumesnil Lake in Paris is a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is located in the Bois de Vincennes, an important green area of Paris and the largest park in the city. Large, leafy trees provide welcome shade on land while boats offer a chance to explore the water. Keep an eye out for the Temple of Love, a romantic structure with a grotto beneath it. You should also check out the nearby Botanical Garden and the Vélodrome de Vincennes.
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6. Vacation Island of Bois Le Roi
If you are looking for swimming lakes near Paris, we recommend you head to the Île de Loisirs de Bois le Roi which is about 50 kilometers south of the city. The holiday island has a long list of fun things to do to keep you entertained, from basketball and beach volleyball to rock climbing and mountain biking. It also has accommodation facilities.
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The lakes in and around Paris are excellent places to rejuvenate and spend some time amidst nature. So this time when you plan your vacation to Paris, make sure to include at least one of these in your itinerary for a memorable experience.
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FAQs about lakes in Paris
Are there lakes in Paris?
Yes, Paris is home to many lakes. In fact, the Bassin de la Villette is the most famous lake in Paris because it is an artificial lake and it joins together two canals, the Canal de l’Ourcq and the Canal Saint-Martin.
What are the main lakes of France?
There are five lakes in France that you must visit on your trip to France and these are Serre-Ponçon Lake, Bourget Lake, Lake Der-Chantecoq and Lake Annecy.
Where can I swim near Paris?
Well, if you also love swimming then we would like to suggest you these pools in Paris that will guarantee you an amazing time and also your time here will be really amazing. They are – Piscine de la Butte aux Calais, Spa 28, Piscine Pointois, Aquaboulevard and Shangri-La Paris.
Can you swim in the Seine River in Paris?
Seine River is one of the most attractive rivers in the world but if you want to swim in this lake then you will be disappointed because this lake is not suitable for swimming.
What is the cheapest time to go to Paris?
The best time to visit Paris is June and July but not the cheapest. So, if you are looking for the cheapest months to visit Paris then you should plan your holidays in the month of January.
How many days do you need in Paris?
If you want to see only the main attractions of Paris then you can plan your holiday for 3 days. And if you want to explore more places then you must stay there for at least 5 days.
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