08.10.09
Parc des Buttes Chaumont: aka “The Adventurer”
As I am always keeping my eye out for new places to explore in Paris, I was particularly interested in a recent blog entitled “7 Paris Parks/Gardens to Fit any Personality or Mood.” The author, Ashley Bruckbauer, spent one summer in Paris as part of a study abroad program and then another on a research fellowship. She wrote several blogs about her time in Paris. You might enjoy reading them, or keeping up with her upcoming adventures as a teacher in China at http://lavieenchina.wordpress.com. The following is an excerpt from her Parks/Gardens Blog that inspired me to put this park on a “To Do” list for my upcoming visit.
Parc des Buttes Chaumont: aka “The Adventurer”
This expansive space in the 19th is without a doubt for the adventurer, the explorer, or someone looking for an outdoor haven within the city. Key characteristics of this park are a 100ft waterfall, cliff top folly replicating the Temple de Sibylle near Rome, and suspension bridge allowing passage over the park’s large pond. Entering the park you will find many forked paths that wind up and down the steep hills (giving the park its name of “butte”). The hills provide great views of the city, including much of Montmartre, and many visitors choose to lay here tanning, reading, and basking in relaxation. The varied nooks and crannies of this park make it a true adventure to explore and on sunny afternoons one can observe instructors giving boxing lessons, families picnicking, and artists sketching in these hidden spots. Who knew that Paris could offer the kind of outdoor adventure that includes hidden grottoes, Roman ruins, 100ft waterfalls, and the seclusion of a hilltop?