Parks and gardens in Paris: Sceaux

Situated not far away from Paris, the Parc de Sceaux is a beautiful natural spot. Designed by the André le Notre, the most famous French landscape architect in the 17th century, this park is perfect for long walks, jogging or even fishing. Thanks to the many cherry trees, during the spring, this park transforms into a place where you can celebrate Hanami, a traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the beauty of flowers. Children will especially enjoy playing in the Parc de Sceaux as there are several very interesting playgrounds.

Parc de Sceaux and Petit Château

Rue du Dr Berger, 92330 Sceaux, France

History

In 1670, Jean-Baptiste Colbert, a French politician and a former Minister of Finances of France, decided to construct his country house near Paris and Versailles. For that reason, he bought the castle and land in Sceaux. Then, he commissioned André le Notre, the most famous French landscape architect and the principal gardener of Louis XIV, to design the park on his new property. To decorate the park, Colbert also bought several statues from the French sculptors, Antoine Coysevox and Pierre Pouget. After Colbert’s death in 1683, the castle and park became the property of his son, the Marquis de Seignelay. He decided to enlarge the park and built the Orangerie, a beautiful building that also served as an art gallery. After the Marquis de Seignelay’s death, at the age of 39, the castle and park were sold to Louis-Auguste de Bourbon, Duke of Maine. In 1793, during the French revolution, the property was confiscated and transformed into a school of agriculture. Almost all the statues were removed, and the castle was destroyed. In 1856, a new castle, that can be seen today, was built, and the park was replanted. 

Cherry blossoming

In the Parc de Sceaux, you can find many Japanese cherry trees. From the end of March to early May, this park becomes a perfect spot to enjoy cherry blossoming. It is also a place where you can celebrate Hanami, a traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the beauty of flowers. This celebration is a great opportunity to picnic with your friends and family under incredibly beautiful cherry trees. 

Practical information

The Parc de Sceaux is perfect for long walks, but you can also enjoy fishing on the Grand Canal. This park is especially great for children from 3 to 12 years old, as there are four very interesting playgrounds. In the park, you will find a shop where you can get a coffee and a sandwich, but as picnicking is authorized in the park, I suggest you bring your own food and drinks. The park is open every day, and the entrance is free of charge. The best way to get to the Parc de Sceaux is to take RER B and get off at the station Bourg-la-Reine, Sceaux or Parc de Sceaux.