Parc du Vallon

Beneath the watchful gaze of Lyon’s cityscape lies Parc du Vallon. It’s a hidden gem nestled within the 9th arrondissement. Parc du Vallon isn’t just a park. It’s a story whispered by the wind rustling through its trees, a story of urban renewal and natural rebirth. Opened in 2014, Parc du Vallon sprawls across 11 hectares. This makes it the fourth largest park in Lyon. This park isn’t just about open space. It’s about the clever integration of nature with urban design. The park features three distinct areas. A captivating wooded area lies to the south. The center boasts three expansive meadows, crisscrossed by a revitalized stream. To the north, a public garden and a festive esplanade await. The stream, known as the Ruisseau des Gorges, is a key character in Parc du Vallon’s story. Buried for decades since the 1960s, it now flows freely for 400 meters. The stream’s rebirth is a testament to the park’s commitment to ecological restoration. Parc du Vallon also safeguards the city from torrential floods. Ingenious design elements like retention basins and three dikes can hold a staggering 26,000 cubic meters of water. The park offers more than just scenic beauty. Playgrounds beckon at either end. One is a thrilling adventure space nestled within the southern woods. Educational signs throughout the park tell stories. You can learn about the park’s history, its diverse flora and fauna, and the secrets of the stream, dams, and a restored 17th-century washhouse. This washhouse, a relic of the old Château de La Duchère, stands as a quiet sentinel in the southern part of Parc du Vallon. Its surroundings are adorned with a carefully curated selection of plants. Look for soapwort, irises, lupines, and woodrush. Parc du Vallon embraces sustainable practices. Meadows are mowed, not clipped, to allow wildflowers to flourish. Deadwood enriches the soil, and mulch conserves water. Green waste is reused, and no chemicals or insecticides are used. Even the park’s restrooms are part of this eco-conscious narrative. Three dry toilets utilize worm composting. They are lit by natural light during the day and motion-sensor lighting at night. Parc du Vallon is a testament to Lyon’s commitment to blending urban life with natural harmony. It is a place where the whispers of history and the songs of nature intertwine, inviting you to become a part of its ongoing story.