BOIS DE VINCENNES ORNITHOLOGICAL RESERVE

Located on the outskirts of Paris and accessible by public transport, this historic hunting ground of the kings of France is the place to go to relax. With no less than 35 km of paths accessible in complete tranquillity, and 18 km of long-distance hiking trails. The site is not lacking in attractions, between the Garden of Tropical Agronomy René Dumont with its Indochinese temples, and its bamboo grove, the Buddhist temple, the sites of the Botanical Garden of the City of Paris, which include the Floral Park and the Du Breuil school, the theaters of the Cartoucherie, the house of the park and wood. It is an idyllic and educational place for children who are delighted to discover the Paris Farm, the puppet theatres, the Aquarium of the Palais de la Porte Dorée and the nature library. At the Parc Floral, the Butterfly Garden and a practical mini-golf course for a miniature tour of Paris, with most of the monuments converted into obstacles. In the heart of the woods, the two-hectare ornithological reserve with its pond. An elevated observatory allows you to observe about fifty species of birds such as the kingfisher, grey warbler, European sparrowhawk, moorhen, litorne thrush, garden warbler, or even the peony bullfinch. Explanatory panels detail the habits of the latter. There are also many mammals, as well as some species of bats. The streams and lakes, although artificial, are home to frogs, toads, newts, dragonflies and ducks. The most remarkable monument of the wood remains the castle of Vincennes. A royal residence from the 12th to the 18th century, it has preserved its walls, its medieval towers, the keep and the Sainte-Chapelle. The wood also has an equestrian centre, where pony rides are offered. More than 15 km of bridle paths, two sports circuits, football, rugby and tennis pitches, a bowling green, an archery area, four playgrounds and riding schools complete the range of activities. A boat trip on the Minimes lake offers lovers a romantic stroll, while horse racing fans can bet at the racecourse. As soon as the weather is fine, sunbathing on the deckchairs on the beach of the Chalet du Lac. The Parc Floral is the setting for many free events, especially in summer. Paris Jazz Festival, Pestacles, Festival Classique au Vert.