Audio GuideBois de Boulogne
Former royal hunting grounds, now a huge public park with lakes, nature trails & botanical gardens.
Park
Paris, France
Bois de Boulogne is one of Paris’s largest public parks, located in the sixteenth arrondissement near Boulogne-Billancourt. Once a royal hunting ground, the park became accessible to the public after land was donated by Napoleon III in the mid-nineteenth century. Later, Baron Haussmann and Jean-Charles Adolphe Alphand transformed it into a space blending nature with art and leisure.
As you wander through the park, you will notice distinct areas. One section features an English-style landscape with winding paths and gentle lawns. Another treasure is the internationally renowned rose garden at the Château de Bagatelle, where vibrant colors and sweet aromas fill the air. The Jardin d’Acclimatation, known for its historical zoo and amusement areas, adds a touch of playful history.
Artificial lakes, ponds, and water features were created to enhance the natural beauty of the setting. They now host activities such as boating, providing a serene complement to the lush greenery. A fascinating chapter in the park’s past is the first free manned hot air balloon flight by the Montgolfier brothers.
Bois de Boulogne has also inspired famous artists like Manet, Renoir, and Van Gogh, making it a cultural hub. Today, the park thrives as a recreational centerpiece, hosting marathons, bike rides, jogging, and horse-riding. It reflects the evolving spirit of Paris, where history meets modern leisure.
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