We’ve heard it all before: when temperatures rise above 30°C in Paris, living in the capital is almost akin to survival. Fortunately, there are some good tips to help us cope with the heat. As far as we’re concerned, we have a number of ideas for refreshing escapades and outings in the capital and beyond, the ideal opportunity to get out of the heat and get some fresh air.
Lakes and lakes
Vaires-Torcy lake
Just 20 minutes from Paris, this lake offers a sandy beach where you can relax and enjoy the water. A popular spot for water-based activities such as pedal-boating and water-skiing, it offers plenty of opportunities to cool off without a 4-hour train journey.
Lac de Jablines
Just 45 minutes from Paris, this lake offers translucent water and sandy beaches that transport us far from the hustle and bustle of Paris. Like Lac de Vaires Torcy, it’s an ideal spot for swimming and water sports such as paddleboarding and windsurfing.
La Plage Bleue
When we think of beaches, we immediately think of the sea or the ocean… But there’s a much closer spot to cool off. Nestled in Valenton, in the Val-de-Marne region of France, the Plage Bleue is a landscaped stretch of water where you can enjoy sand and relaxation less than an hour from Paris. The ideal place to take a summer break without having to travel hundreds of kilometers.
Étang des Noës
Located in the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse regional park, this pond offers the perfect natural setting for swimming and birdwatching. It’s a peaceful place to relax in the middle of nature, and above all to get some fresh air and escape the heat.
The banks of the Loing
We’re all familiar with the surrounding villages, enchanting scenery and small forests. The Loing and its surroundings are among the prettiest in the Paris region, and there are several places along its banks where you can enjoy a swim! A perfect getaway!
Forest walks and hikes in the shade
Viaduc des Fauvettes
Just 30 minutes from Paris by RER B, this 9 km hike offers rolling, shady landscapes around the viaduct and the Gif-sur-Yvette forest. Here again, a great opportunity to escape the capital without burning up.
Montmorency forest
Located in the Val d’Oise, this forest offers trails between Bouffémont and Saint-Leu-la-Forêt, perfect for a hike in the shade of the trees. With a distance of 12 kilometers, it offers a pleasant itinerary to enjoy at the start or end of the day. What’s more, we’ve already told you more about this great getaway, so all you have to do is follow the guide!
The Bois de Boulogne
For something a little closer to the capital, head for the Bois de Boulogne. The lakes in this giant green space are a great place to enjoy the cool shade of the trees. Although swimming is prohibited, it’s a pleasant place to stroll and relax by the water.
Parc de Saint-Cloud
This famous park offers vast wooded areas where you can stroll in the shade and enjoy the view over Paris. It’s the ideal place to enjoy a picnic with family or friends and escape the hustle and bustle of the capital for a while.
Also read: 40 things to do in Paris in autumn at least once in your life