PARIS’ GREEN WALK : LA COULÉE VERTE

Hidden gem of the French capital, la Coulée Verte (literally the Green Flow) also known as La Promenade Plantée is a 4,5km trail elevated 10m above the 12th arrondissement. A bucolic walk away from the fast paced city life right in the middle of Paris. How is this possible may you wonder?

Opened in 1993, it is the world’s first elevated park walkway which then inspired the New York Highline. In 1969, the trains on the avenue Daumesnil’s viaduct whistled for the very last time before the rail tracks closed forever. Saved from demolition by the residents and city of Paris, a garden and walking path were built upon the obsolete railway infrastructure of eastern Paris. Under the Viaduc, arches were built glass fronted workshops for local artisans. It is now known as the Viaduc des Arts.

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Start at Bastille, climb up stairs and enjoy the journey which will lead you all the way to the Porte de Vincennes!

Its lush greenery with climbing plants, roses and all sorts of bushes, gives an almost countryside feel while offering a beautiful view over Paris’ boulevards. Children will love the impressive 1930’s muses ornating the Police station and will have fun taking a sneak peak into people’s homes through the window! Crossing tunnels and trenches will also give a feeling of adventure to your young explorers.

Right in the middle of the journey, the trail meets the Jardin de Reuilly. A lovely garden with a vast lawn in which to enjoy a picnic and play ball games. 

A perfect way to experience nature, art, and design all in one! Take your bike, rollerblade and skateboard to make the day even more fun!

USEFUL INFORMATION

Address : From De la rue Édouard-Lartet à la Bastille 75012 Paris

Map & Opening hours : https://www.paris.fr/equipements/coulee-verte-rene-dumont-ex-promenade-plantee-1772

*All pictures are from L’Île aux Fées except from the one of the Viaduc des Arts which comes from Wikipédia

Dress tip :

To be in line with the surrounding nature and remain chic, what better than an elegant French style smocked dress?

Visit our Parisian boutique L’Île aux Fées 66 rue Notre Dame des Champs 75006 ( open from Tuesday to Saturday from 2pm to 7pm) or shop online at Charlotte sy Dimby.com