Do you know the Petite Ceinture? This 32km former railway line, now overrun by nature, forms a loop at the ends of the capital and offers many quiet, timeless walks. In Paris's 17th arrondissement, the Promenade Pereire is located on the former rail line, between Porte Maillot and rue de Tocqueville, along boulevard Pereire. Where to go?
Like the Coulée verte, this stretch of nature runs in a straight line, plunging us into a parallel world in the heart of the capital, between rose bushes, climbing plants and other flowering shrubs, in spring and summer. The walk is divided into several sections with different atmospheres, between which you'll have to re-enter civilization to reach the next sections. We begin our tour (which lasts less than an hour, after all) on rue de Tocqueville, where we take the stairs down to the Petite Ceinture.
You'll come across dogs and their owners looking for a quiet spot, birds, insects and a whole new biodiversity, where nature reclaims its rights. The walk is relaxing, with the sound of birds rather than cars, thanks to the abundant vegetation that absorbs the noise. After passing through a tunnel, it's already time to emerge to reach the next part of the walk, a few metres further on, after the traffic circles. Good to know: a few tennis courts are available on the boulevard!
We start again at Place du Maréchal Juin, next to the Pereire metro station. And here are the famous rosebushes, in full bloom in summer! In summer, there are still plenty of flowers to admire under the plant arches, a perfect place to read a book, have a picnic or simply enjoy nature in the heart of the city. Although there are no longer any rails here, a plaque paying homage to Emile and Isaac Pereire, the parliamentarians behind numerous 19th-century railway lines, reminds us of the former route of the Ligne d'Auteuil beneath our feet.
As far as Porte Maillot, the landscape alternates between children's play areas, ping-pong tables open to all, and real little havens of peace, shaded by large trees and pergolas. You'll be able to admire all the colors of roses available, from orange to pink and white, as well as heather and other colorful plants. And best of all, you'll be almost alone in the world, as the promenade is relatively unknown to Parisians!
A guide to walks on the Petite Ceinture in Paris, for walks in the heart of nature
Do you know the Petite Ceinture? This abandoned railway line, 32km long, encircles Paris and offers nice green spots, far from the Parisian tumult. Shall we go for a walk off the beaten track? [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
Starts November 8, 2024
Location
Promenade Pereire
Place du Maréchal Juin
75017 Paris 17
Prices
Free
A guide to walks on the Petite Ceinture in Paris, for walks in the heart of nature
