Ever wished to escape the city without leaving Paris? The Parc départemental Georges-Valbon offers just that. It is a sprawling green oasis straddling five municipalities. These are La Courneuve Saint-Denis Stains Dugny and Garges-lès-Gonesse.
Originally named Parc de la Courneuve it was renamed to honor Georges Valbon. He was the first president of the Seine-Saint-Denis council. This park stands as the third largest green space in the Paris region. Only the Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes are larger.
Imagine this: 417 hectares of diverse landscapes. Valleys lakes and meadows stretch as far as the eye can see. Waterfalls cascade creating a soothing ambiance. A rose garden blooms with vibrant colors. It is a true ecological reserve.
The Parc départemental Georges-Valbon is home to diverse flora and fauna. Around 140 species of birds have been recorded here. Many types of insects thrive in its natural environments. This rich biodiversity earned it a place in the Natura 2000 network.
But its history goes back further. From the Middle Ages to the 19th century the land was used for cereal crops. Later it became market gardens supplying food to Paris. The area was naturally wet and prone to flooding being near the Seine. Several rivers and streams crossed the site including the Croult and the Vieille Mer.
The idea for a public promenade dates back to 1925. However the first section opened to the public in 1970. In the 1960s part of the park was home to the Campa shantytown. Hundreds of families lived there in poverty. They were later rehoused in public housing.
The park’s design evolved over the years. In the 1970s landscape architects created artificial valleys hills lakes and viewpoints. The 1980s saw a focus on ecological balance. The upper lakes were redesigned to improve their biological functions.
For a time the Fête de l’Humanité was held in the park. From 1972 to 1998 this large festival took place here. Bruce Springsteen even performed a concert in the park in 1985.
The Parc départemental Georges-Valbon offers a wide range of activities. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy hiking and cycling trails. There are even orienteering trails. Families can rent pedal boats on the Grand Lac. Children have several play areas to explore. For relaxation you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride. Picnic areas and refreshment bars are available.
The park also hosts various events. The Honey Festival is held every September. A night show takes place each fall. An equestrian center is managed by UCPA. The park’s calendar is full of sports nature and workshop activities.
The park’s team includes 17 eco-guards. Three brigade leaders on horseback or in vehicles patrol the grounds. They provide information ensure safety and raise awareness about environmental protection.
Two visitor centers named Édouard Glissant and Victoria Montou offer information. They also host events and thematic tours. Near the Victoria Montou center stands the sculpture Le Vigilant. It was created by the artist Rachid Koraïchi.
During the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games the park was a celebration zone. A giant screen showed the competitions. Free sports activities were offered daily. Concerts and other events took place.
Whether you seek outdoor adventure a peaceful retreat or a fun family outing the Parc départemental Georges-Valbon welcomes you. It is a testament to nature’s resilience and the importance of green spaces in our urban lives. A place where history ecology and recreation intertwine.