Islands in the Seine often hold secrets. Today, we explore the unique story of the Île du Platais. This island has an identity that is quite unusual.
Île du Platais, also known as Île de Médan, stretches about 1.7 kilometers. You will find it nestled in the Yvelines department. It lies between Villennes-sur-Seine and Médan on the left bank and Triel-sur-Seine on the right bank.
Interestingly, Île du Platais isn’t connected to the riverbanks. The only way to reach it is by ferry.
Let’s rewind to the 19th century. The famous author Émile Zola purchased a chalet near the island in 1880. It had a Norwegian style. Zola invited his artist friends like Cézanne, Manet, and Pissarro to Île du Platais. They sought inspiration in its light.
Back then a section of Île du Platais was known as Villennes Beach. Parisians loved escaping here. They would take boat trips from Paris.
However, Île du Platais faced challenges. Flooding always hindered development. Today, the Seine Flood Control Plan restricts construction.
Now, for a surprising twist. In 1928, two doctor brothers, André and Gaston Durville, bought a large part of Île du Platais. They had ideas about nature cures and naturism. They established a health resort. It was named Physiopolis.
Initially, Physiopolis was a naturist resort. But authorities made them adopt minimal clothing in the 1930s. Despite this, Physiopolis thrived. By 1930, sunny weekends attracted 2,000 people to Île du Platais. Physiopolis lasted until the 1950s. You can still find remains of its chalets.
Today, Île du Platais offers a glimpse into its diverse past. It was a haven for artists. It was a naturist retreat. This island in the Seine has quite the story.