With the heat wave on the horizon, some of us are dreaming more than ever of a cool escape. So we rush to the pools, parks, and woods… only to quickly find ourselves caught up in the crowds who’ve had pretty much the same idea. So to avoid the heat, we recommend heading a little way out of Paris to discover a truly unique spot: the Butte des Châtaigniers. Hidden in the heart of the Val-d’Oise, this little-known giant hill offers a breathtaking view of Paris.
La Butte des Châtaigniers, a magnificent and well-preserved park
We’ve already told you about the Butte d’Orgemont, which offers a magnificent view of the capital, but did you know that right next door lies another hill just as spectacular? The Butte des Châtaigniers is an exceptional spot where you can get a real dose of nature just minutes from the capital.

Perched over 100 meters high, you can even admire La Défense, Sacré-Cœur, or even the Eiffel Tower on a clear day from the top of its observation deck. Sports enthusiasts love to go there for outdoor activities, and visitors have plenty of time to picnic or take a stroll when the weather is mild and pleasant. Along with the Butte d’Orgemont and the Butte d’Argenteuil, it is part of the Buttes de Parisis Regional Nature Area. A protected green space spanning over 400 hectares, rich in biodiversity.
The Butte des Châtaigniers is a former gypsum quarry covering nearly 18 hectares. Today, it is covered in woods and meadows. It’s a truly unique spot that will completely transport you. A magical place, completely free, that will leave you in awe!
Location: Butte des Châtaigniers, Bd Youri Gagarine, 95100 Argenteuil