While biking from the city centre of Paris to the palace of Versailles, we go through the Bois de Boulogne, Paris’ second largest park.

Impressed by Hyde Pak while he was in exile in London, once he became emperor of France in 1852, Napoléon III decided on building two large public parks in the East (bois de Vincennes) and West (bois de Boulogne) of Paris.

More than 150 years later, it remains a locals’ favorite. It is a popular spot for Parisians to enjoy a picnic on the grass, stroll in the park, work out, play tennis or watch the French open at Roland Garros, visit the zoo, bet on a horse race at the track of Longchamp, relax with kids at the Jardin d’Acclimatation theme park, or visit one of the greenhouses.

About two and a half times the size of Central Park, NYC, it is best to discover the wood by bike. La grande cascade, this man-made waterfall and cave offers a nice break.

Grande Casade in bois de Boulogne, Paris

Marcella & Claire

Travel tips:

• To bike in Paris, you can rent a Velib’. Easily found at docking station throughout the city, you just grab one and ditch it at the station close to your point of interest. You will be charged a flat daily fee and then per the hour, the first half hour being free.
• Check out this interactive map for the specific details to help you plan your trip and more articles and photos (zoom out) about the area!!