Allée des Cèdres

“Lost in the sprawling Bois de Boulogne?” a voice cuts through the gentle rustle of leaves. We’re standing at Allée des Cèdres, a quiet path overshadowed by the giants for which it’s named. Allée des Cèdres isn’t just a path. It’s a thread in the rich tapestry of this former royal hunting ground. Imagine, back in the 14th century, King Philip IV, inspired by a pilgrimage to Boulogne-sur-Mer, decreed a chapel be built here. This chapel, Notre Dame de Boulogne la Petite, gave the entire wood its name, Bois de Boulogne. Over time, Allée des Cèdres and the surrounding woods witnessed history unfold. From the destructive encampments of English and Russian troops in the early 19th century to the grand redesign under Napoleon III, the Bois de Boulogne, including Allée des Cèdres, has been reshaped and reborn. Napoleon III, inspired by London’s Hyde Park, envisioned a place of leisure and recreation. He commissioned the creation of two lakes, the Lac Supérieur and Lac Inférieur, which are now prominent features of the Bois de Boulogne. The cascade, crafted from rocks brought all the way from Fontainebleau, adds a touch of drama to this tranquil landscape. Allée des Cèdres is nestled near the impressive Grande Cascade. The cascade’s waters, sourced from the Seine via a complex hydraulic system, plunge dramatically creating a cool mist and a soothing roar. Nearby, you’ll find another historical treasure, the Chu00e2teau de Bagatelle. A charming structure built in a mere 64 days on a wager between Marie Antoinette and the Comte d’Artois. Now, Allée des Cèdres invites you to wander beneath the cedars, their fragrant branches reaching towards the sky. Take a moment to appreciate the legacy of this remarkable park, a green oasis created from a once-wild forest. Allée des Cèdres, a peaceful pathway, offers a glimpse into the heart of the Bois de Boulogne.