Thirty million years ago an ocean covered the Ile-de-France region. This is Place des Sables. Imagine a vast warm ocean teeming with life. The seabed was rich with quartz. Over time the ocean retreated leaving behind the Bassin Parisien. The quartz transformed into fine sand. This is the sand of Place des Sables a remarkable geological anomaly.
This remarkable sand is not ordinary sand. Its high silica content makes it special. It’s used to make optical glass. So if you wear glasses you might be wearing a tiny piece of Place des Sables.
Place des Sables is part of the Massif des Trois-Pignons in the Fontainebleau forest. It’s a popular spot for hikers and sightseers. They come to walk amongst immense sandstone blocks. These are remnants of the quartz that once formed the ocean floor. They create a unique natural outdoor exhibition.
The area is also known by a less charming name. Locals call it “les sables du cul de chien” or “the sands of the dog’s bottom”. It’s a rather informal name but it reflects the area’s unique character.
On weekends Place des Sables is bustling with visitors. It’s best to visit during the week if you prefer a quieter experience. But whenever you visit you’ll be stepping back in time. You’ll be walking on the remnants of an ancient ocean floor. A true testament to the power of nature.
Place des Sables a place of immense history and beauty. A place to walk reflect and marvel at the passage of time. Remember that the next time you put on your glasses. You might be wearing a tiny piece of history. A grain of Place des Sables.