Le Père Goriot, Peau de Chagrin, Illusions perdues… The illustrious writer Honoré de Balzac has undeniably left his mark on the history of French literature through his major works. But did you know that Balzac had a haven of peace where he could rest in the heart of Paris? Located in the 16ᵉ arrondissement of Paris, the Maison de Balzac is now a year-round museum dedicated to the writer. But it’s above all for its hidden garden that we like to go there… It offers a breathtaking view of the Iron Lady. It’s the perfect way to get away from it all for an afternoon!
A secret garden in the heart of Paris with a view of the Eiffel Tower
Who would have thought that such a verdant setting could be hidden in the heart of Paris? The garden of Balzac’s house, located in the very chic 16ᵉ arrondissement, is surprisingly tranquil and bucolic. It’s safe to say, the writer had in his hands a veritable Garden of Eden in which to recharge his batteries!
The 650 m² garden has been completely redesigned to make your visit as pleasant as possible! You’ll find native plants and flowering bosquets that will perfume the premises all year round. As you stroll around, you’ll be captivated by the peacefulness of the surroundings. Three areas stand out:
- A curtain of greenery along the wall on the Rue Raynouard side,
- A lawn planted with trees
- Copses, vines and even trellised fruit trees on the rue Berton side.
In this romantic setting, a special guest has been added to this enchanting tableau: the Eiffel Tower. Balzac’s house has a charming ace up its sleeve, as it boasts one of the finest views of the Iron Lady, who appears almost surrounded by greenery…
A romantic garden and café
After an invigorating stroll, head for the museum café. The Rose Bakery is the ideal place to read in the sunshine while sipping a café frappé. For those with a sweet tooth, there’s a healthy menu where fresh, organic produce is the order of the day: a salad, a pastry… The hardest part will be choosing! A lovely café, with a view of our beloved Eiffel Tower, perfect for enjoying the sunny days.
📍Location: 47, rue Raynouard 75116 Paris