Paris isn’t just about the Eiffel Tower and Haussmann style. It’s also nature, parks, beautiful surrounding villages and lakes! Yes, you don’t have to go far to get a change of scenery. Here are the most beautiful lakes near Paris to admire all year round.
The lakes of the Bois de Boulogne, a must-see!
How can we talk about lakes without mentioning the Bois de Boulogne lakes? These beautiful lakes, fed by the Ourcq canal, are a must-see in Paris. Although swimming is forbidden, you can still enjoy the freshness of the water by sitting on the edge! Ducks, swans and other birds make their home here. Like them, perhaps these lakes will become your HQ?
📍Location: 6 Rue du Bois de Boulogne, 75016 Paris
Lac Daumesnil, a must-see in the Bois de Vincennes
This beautiful lake in the heart of the Bois de Vincennes is not a creation of nature. In fact, it was created by man during the Second Empire. Nevertheless, its enchanting, soothing setting makes it a favorite spot for strollers. You can even rent a rowboat to sail around on sunny days!
📍Location: Rte de la Pyramide, 75012 Paris
Lac de Bois-le-Roi, a magnificent lake on the outskirts of Paris
This sublime lake, just 50 km from Paris, is a sight to behold all year round. You can picnic, play outdoor sports and even swim in certain designated areas. A veritable oasis on the banks of the wild Seine.
📍Location: Rue de Tournezy, 77590 Bois-le-Roi
L’étang des Noës, a refreshing swim in Ile-de-France
If you really want to get away from it all without straying too far from Paris, l’étang des Noës is the spot not to be missed. Located in the commune of Mesnil-Saint-Denis, this pretty lake lies at the heart of the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse regional park. A perfect place for wildlife-watching, picnicking and, of course, swimming!
🚗 Distance: Approx. 1h from Paris
Saint-Maur-des-fossés, and its beautiful wild river for a swim
You may not be able to swim in the Seine, but you can totally swim in the Marne. Once a year, the city comes alive with the Big Jump. A family event that brings together nature lovers and swimmers. We go there to make water jumps and share a good time with our loved ones.
🚗Distance: Approx. 32 minutes from Paris
Lac du Val de Seine, a natural treasure
This blue-green lake stretches over 269 hectares of greenery! Some of the ponds have been converted into beaches so you can enjoy the first rays of summer sunshine. You can also water-ski, pedal-boat or simply read a book on the grass.
Lac de Vaires-Torcy, a favorite playground for families
Just 20 minutes from Paris, Lac Vaires-Torcy offers a host of activities to do around the lake: water sports, golf, horseback riding… In summer, the lake is equipped with toboggans for the whole family, and hosts numerous summer festivals! It’s the place to be when the weather’s nice.
📍Location: Lac de Vaires-Torcy 77360 Vaires-sur-Marne
Lac de Jablines, the most exotic of all lakes
Translucent water, white sand… Yes, you’re still in France, and more precisely at Lac de Jablines. Renowned for its beauty, the lake offers a range of activities not to be missed on sunny days: paddleboarding, windsurfing and, of course, sunbathing by the lake! An ideal spot to relax with your feet spread out on the water’s edge.
📍Location: Île de loisirs de Jablines-Annet, 77234 Jablines
Les étangs de Hollande, in the heart of the Rambouillet forest
Nature lovers and ramblers are bound to be familiar with this area in the heart of Rambouillet. The six étangs de Hollande are a natural wonder! The perfect place to capture beautiful landscapes, breathe in the fresh air and unwind.
📍Location: Route des Étangs de Hollande 78610 Les Bréviaires
Le Loing, the ideal place for a family swim
Looking for a family outing away from the hustle and bustle of Paris? Discover this superb river in the south of Paris. You’ll enjoy a magnificent setting just 1 h from Paris, and can even stroll through the superb medieval town of Grez-sur-Loing. The bravest will love jumping off the latter’s stone bridge…
🚗 Distance: Approx. 1 h from Paris