Best lakes around Gentilly offer diverse natural and recreational opportunities. The region features a mix of natural and artificial lakes, often integrated into larger green spaces and historical sites. These bodies of water provide settings for various outdoor activities and offer natural retreats near urban areas.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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super place for running, watch out for the opening hours! January 8am-5pm February 8am-6pm March 7:30am-7pm (8:30pm from daylight saving time change) April 7am-8:30pm May 7am-9pm June 7am-9pm July 7am-9pm August 7am-8:30pm September 7:30am-8pm October 8am-7pm (5pm from daylight saving time change) November 8am-5pm December 8am-5pm
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Panoramic view of the Grand Canal just after the entrance. An ideal place for a family walk, which is also a favorite ground for runners.
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Today we went on a beautiful hike near 🌞 in the Parisian forest. With an area of approximately 846 hectares in the west of the city, the Bois de Boulogne can be considered one of the two 'lungs' of Paris and the second largest green space in terms of area, after the Bois de Vincennes in the east. In October, many cyclamens bloom here along the hiking trail. A hike all the way around the lake with a visit to the island is a wonderful one. A free ferry ride is offered to get to the island. Highly recommended. We took a short break at LE CHALET DES ILES. Afterwards, we hiked a short distance on the island. Surprisingly, the heron was very friendly. I had the impression that it was expecting to be photographed 😄. It immediately struck a pose; I've never been so close to a heron before. There are always great photo opportunities along the hike, with small, babbling brooks in a very idyllic setting.
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Bois de Boulogne Paris, France The two trees (240 cm) are a gift from Swedish industry to the Parisians and symbolize love and unity. This bronze statue was inaugurated in 1994. With this donation, the investor – a Swedish industrial holding company – and the Wallenberg family acknowledge the historical significance of relations between France and Sweden. At the tip of the small island in Lake Superior, this symbol of love has become a favorite place for Parisians to rest, row, and contemplate for bird lovers. There are great places to sit and relax. The sculpture is beautiful to behold and highly recommended 👍 to visit.
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Another wonderful moment that simply takes you away 🥰. First, we took a break on a wonderful viewing bench and enjoyed the view of the Les Deux Arbes sculpture and the surrounding area 😍. It was hard for us to leave this place 😔. But the day is drawing to a close. This short hike in the Bois de Boulogne 💙 is absolutely spectacular and highly recommended.
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The view from across the shore was spectacular, but to see it from here is incredible. To see so much romance in one statue is indescribably beautiful.
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The pond is as bucolic as you could wish for
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Yes, several lakes in the Gentilly area are well-suited for families. Lake Daumesnil in the Bois de Vincennes is a popular choice, offering a natural break near the capital. The Luxembourg Palace and Gardens, with its large pond, is also very family-friendly, featuring statues and open spaces. Additionally, Villebon Pond in the Meudon forest and Lake Gravelle are noted for their family-friendly atmosphere.
The lakes around Gentilly offer diverse opportunities for outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking and jogging around many of them. For more structured activities, there are numerous routes available. For example, you can find various running trails, including a moderate 9.5 km loop around Parc de la Cité Universitaire and Lake at Parc Montsouris, or a 12.8 km loop around Lake Daumesnil. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore routes like the 19.8 km 'Fleury reservoir – Trivaux Pond loop' or the longer 'Meudon Pond – Aqueduc de Buc loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Running Trails around Gentilly and MTB Trails around Gentilly guides.
The lakes around Gentilly are beautiful year-round, offering different experiences with each season. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the lush greenery and warmer weather, perfect for walks and picnics. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, especially in areas like the Meudon forest around Villebon Pond. Even in winter, the serene landscapes provide a peaceful setting for walks, as noted by visitors enjoying the quiet beauty of places like Lake Gravelle.
The lakes near Gentilly are home to various natural elements and wildlife. At Villebon Pond, you can observe ducks and gray herons amidst weeping willows. The Bois de Vincennes, where Lake Daumesnil and Lake Gravelle are located, offers a natural break with diverse flora and fauna. Even artificial lakes like Daumesnil provide a chance to admire the nature of the Ile-de-France region.
Yes, the region boasts significant historical sites alongside its lakes. The most prominent is the Luxembourg Palace and Gardens. This garden, inspired by the Florentine Boboli garden, was created in 1612 at the initiative of Queen Marie de Médicis and features 106 statues, the monumental Medici fountain, and a large pond. While Lake Daumesnil is artificial, it was created during the Second Empire, adding a historical layer to its natural appeal.
For a more peaceful experience, consider visiting Lake Gravelle, located in the south-east of the Bois de Vincennes. It's described as a very pretty, peaceful lake nestled in the woods. Villebon Pond in the Meudon forest is also known as a popular spot for nature lovers seeking tranquility.
Yes, many lakes around Gentilly are surrounded by easy walking paths. The Upper Lake of the Bois de Boulogne is a great local recreation area popular with joggers and walkers. Lake Daumesnil also offers pleasant walks, allowing you to admire the nature of the Paris region. The paths around Villebon Pond are also suitable for leisurely strolls, connecting to other ponds via small canals.
Absolutely! Cycling is a popular activity around the lakes. The Upper Lake of the Bois de Boulogne is particularly great for cycling. For more extensive rides, you can explore various MTB and gravel biking routes in the area. For instance, the 'View of the Château de Sceaux – La Coulée Verte in Châtillon loop' is an easy 23 km MTB route. You can find more cycling options in the MTB Trails around Gentilly and Gravel biking around Gentilly guides.
Visitors particularly enjoy the natural escape and recreational opportunities provided by the lakes near Gentilly. They appreciate the chance to relax and get away from city stress, as highlighted by those visiting the Upper Lake of the Bois de Boulogne. The beauty of places like Lake Gravelle and the natural break offered by Lake Daumesnil are frequently praised. The diverse landscapes, from serene ponds to historical gardens, also contribute to a highly positive visitor experience.
Yes, several lakes offer loop trails perfect for walking or jogging. For example, you can find a 12.8 km loop around Lake Daumesnil. The Luxembourg Gardens also feature a loop trail, allowing you to explore its extensive grounds. These loops provide excellent opportunities for a continuous and scenic outdoor experience.
While specific fishing regulations vary, Villebon Pond in the Meudon forest is noted as a popular place for fishermen. It's always advisable to check local regulations and permit requirements before planning a fishing trip to any of the lakes.


Still not found your perfect lake around Gentilly? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.