Just a few kilometers from the capital, the Parc départemental des Chanteraines is one of the largest green spaces in the Hauts-de-Seine department. Developed in the 1970s on former agricultural and industrial land, it now covers nearly 80 hectares between the municipalities of Gennevilliers and Villeneuve-la-Garenne. With its large meadows, wooded areas, and lakes, it is one of the great green lungs of northwestern Paris.
An 80-hectare park in close proximity to the capital
The park was designed as a natural landscape accessible to the city’s residents. The wide paths are ideal for long walks or bike rides, while more secluded trails wind through the groves and undergrowth. The scenery changes completely with the seasons, from spring blooms to green meadows in summer and warm colors in fall.
As you stroll through the park, you will come across ponds and wetlands that attract many birds. Ducks, herons, and moorhens can easily be spotted around the water, making the site a small refuge for biodiversity in the middle of an urban area. Some areas are deliberately left wilder in order to preserve this natural balance.
Parc des Chanteraines is also known for its educational farm, which is very popular with families. It is home to several farm animals, as well as vegetable gardens and areas dedicated to learning about agriculture. The park regularly hosts workshops and activities for children, who can enjoy the countryside without leaving the Paris region.
Another special feature of the park is its tourist train, one of the few still in operation in a park in the Paris region. This miniature train runs on several kilometers of track and allows visitors to cross the park from one end to the other while enjoying the scenery. It’s a rather unusual activity that appeals to both children and train enthusiasts alike.
The site also includes several playgrounds, sports fields, and large lawns where you can easily settle down for a picnic when the weather is nice. Local residents often come here to run, cycle, or simply enjoy a quiet moment away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Easily accessible from Paris, thanks in particular to the nearby T1 tramway and RER C train line, over the years Parc des Chanteraines has become one of the largest recreational areas in western Paris. With its natural surroundings, activities, and open landscapes, it offers a real breath of fresh air just a few minutes from the capital.
📍Parc des Chanteraines – 46 Av. Georges Pompidou, 92390 Villeneuve-la-Garenne