This is not your typical Parisian garden. In fact, this is probably as un-traditional as Paris gets. This is the Parc de Bercy, and our final chapter in the French Way Spring Special .
A garden seldom visited by tourists!
Located in the heart of the twelfth arrondissement , the Parc de Bercy is split into three gardens which run along the right bank of the Seine River. I accidentally discovered this quiet corner of Paris on the way to one of the neighboring movie theatres – what a joy! It is now included in my morning power walk ritual, where I watch it change effortlessly with the weather and seasons. This is one of those places in the world where you see something different on every visit; buskers on their accordions, tiny tots playing on the merry-go-round, young couples out walking their Chihuahuas, or latterly, a man walking down three flights of stairs…on his hands!
Although considered “off the beaten track” for most tourists, Parc de Bercy continues to fascinate me in a way I can’t really describe. You see, it doesn’t feel like Paris. It’s young, it’s hip, and it’s most certainly marching to the beat of its own drum. The Parc de Bercy presents us with a refreshing diversity of architectural designs, forms, ambiances, and discoveries.
In this corner of Paris, the old and the new are inextricably intertwined; a traditional garden house is located merely metres away from Frank Gehry’s modern Cinémathèque , rectangular Japanese-influenced ponds are constructed under the shade of trees that have stood the test of time, and families can quietly eat an habitual Sunday night picnic dinner on the grass before heading to the movies at the trendy Cour Saint-Emilion , which borders the park. Some argue that it is a bit of a ‘mish-mash’ of design strategies, but the Parc de Bercy is really Paris’ way of saying, “we’re moving forward, but guarding what we hold dear.”
Surprise at every corner.
Near the exit which leads to the impeccably constructed Simone-de-Beauvoir bridge, are twenty-one colored sculptures crafted by Algerian sculptor, Rachid Khimoune. Erected in 2001, these sculptures represent twenty-one children from twenty-one different countries of the world, symbolizing us entering into the twenty-first century with a regard and respect for one another. They stand on the slope overlooking the park, proudly looking ahead to the future and embracing the adventures it has in store for us.
Despite its modern flair, Parc de Bercy is still a traditional park. What I mean by that is that this area works in the way any other park does – there are always people playing, laughing, eating, drinking, sun-bathing (albeit not this week), and spending time with the people that mean a lot to them. This is what a park should do, and this one achieves it beautifully.
Parc de Bercy shuts at 9pm (hours vary depending on season)
The closest metro stations are Bercy or Cour Saint-Emilion on Line 14.
Article written by Sarah Reese.
Can you believe that this is in the heart of Paris?
You must try and make a visit through the Parc de Bercy on your next trip to Paris!
Wonderful blog Sarah.
Sorry that I have missed that part of Paris, Great park, and Cinema. All the things you can discover when you have plenty of time to explore, and relax with it, instead of rushing around, trying to see as much as possible.
Frank Gheary is a Hero to us as we have visited his wonderful unique home/house in Los Angeles, and seen alot of his wonderful architecture in our travels. We follow his work all over the world, and he is certainly putting his footprint in many amazing places. He is a wonderful Architect and a Gentleman.
Rose and Vic – Fans of the the French Way Travel.
P.S. Must put it on the Bucket List.
Wow, that looks so beautiful! My favourite park (anywhere) is still Buttes de Chamont, but this looks like a serious contender too! I’ve only been to Bercy station for the Artesia train to Italy, but maybe I’ll explore properly next time, thanks.
Jools, we were tossing up whether to write about the Butte Chaumont, Parc de Monceau and Luxembourg Gardens, but thought we would include less known places!
It looks so beautiful, lush and serene. Just the spot to relax and contemplate!
Aw. This post really made me want to wander the streets and parks of Paris, who pretty and serene.
Kalyra was adament I buy her a shirt with the Eiffel tower on it yesterday, so maybe that is a sign. Prepare the wine and cheese!
Thanks Caz. So I might have to go and buy your daughter a T shirt!!!!
I love the parks and gardens of Paris. Excellent for reading or writing or doing nothing.
Gardens – always a break from the rushing world around us don’t you think.
Hi John, I have to say, the first picture looks absolutely beautiful with everything almost covered in green. Gardens are one of my favourites and you are right, there’s always a surprise waiting.
Thanks David. It always amazes me that in the middle of a garden like this you could be in the countryside whereas you are in the middle of one of the great world capitals.
I love the statues of the children from different countries. The man walking down the stairs on his hands must have been truly a sight to see.
I love walking around Paris and discovering new places- this garden seems fantastic and completely peaceful unlike some of the busier parts of the city.
Thanks Jade. Imagine walking in these gardens every morning whilst in the centre of this capital city!
Parc de Bercy looks so beautiful. I like the idea of there being a “surprise at every corner”. Next time I’m in Paris, I’d like to visit here. Very nice post and photos.
I love this garden and really am drawn to it as off the beaten path. I’ve been to Paris a couple of times and had never even heard of this. When I go back, I will have to check this out. It looks beautiful in the Spring!