Best lakes around Le Bourget include Lac du Bourget, the largest and deepest natural lake entirely within France. This lake is situated between mountains, offering a diverse landscape with steep western shores and more developed eastern areas. It is recognized as a Ramsar site and a UNESCO biosphere reserve. The region provides opportunities for various outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Not only in summer, but today, March 2nd at 10 PM with a temperature of 13 degrees Celsius, there's already a lot going on, with well-attended restaurants both indoors and outdoors. 😄
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The Bassin de l’Arsenal (also Port de l’Arsenal) is a picturesque marina in Paris that connects the Canal Saint-Martin to the Seine. It lies between the 4th and 12th arrondissements, directly below the Place de la Bastille. Originally, an arsenal (armory) was located here. After the destruction of the Bastille during the French Revolution, the former moat was transformed into the present-day harbor basin. The name remained.
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a very pleasant walk along the basin
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Visiting the Parisian beach on a Sunday gives an even better idea of the place where the French spend some summer relaxation.
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Why visit Lac d'Enghien? Relaxation and nature: The lake and its surroundings offer a peaceful setting to relax and enjoy nature. Recreational activities: Rent a pedal boat or canoe to explore the lake, or stroll along the landscaped trails. Pleasant atmosphere: Enjoy the lakeside cafés and restaurants for a culinary experience with a view. Local events: Participate in the cultural and festive events organized around the lake. Lac d'Enghien is a must-see for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Paris, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, leisure and natural beauty.
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Lac d'Enghien, located in Enghien-les-Bains, north of Paris, is a beautiful body of water surrounded by picturesque landscapes and a variety of leisure activities. This lake is a central location in this renowned spa town and is a haven of peace for residents and visitors alike. Characteristics of Lac d'Enghien: Size and layout: The lake covers approximately 43 hectares, surrounded by promenades and well-maintained gardens. It is surrounded by a wide esplanade that allows visitors to walk around the lake while enjoying the views. Water activities: Although swimming is not permitted, the lake offers activities such as pedal boat, canoe and rowboat rentals, allowing visitors to enjoy the water and discover the lake from a different perspective. Walks and relaxation: The walks around the lake are ideal for a leisurely walk, a run, or a simple relaxing break. The paths are well laid out and offer pleasant views of the water and surrounding green spaces. Green space and gardens: The lake is surrounded by landscaped gardens and green spaces where visitors can relax, picnic, or simply enjoy nature. There are also playgrounds for children. Café and restaurants: There are several cafés and restaurants located near the lake, where visitors can enjoy a meal while admiring the view of the water. Events and activities: Enghien Lake is the site of various cultural events and festivities throughout the year, such as open-air concerts, markets, and local events. Easy access: Located close to Paris, the lake is easily accessible by train or car from the capital. Enghien-les-Bains train station is a few minutes' walk from the lake, making it easy for visitors to get there.
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Family Activities: The lake and its surroundings are perfect for families, offering a safe and enjoyable space for children. Nearby playgrounds and walking trails allow families to spend a pleasant day together. Why visit the lake of the Georges Valbon Departmental Park? Nature and relaxation: The lake offers a peaceful setting to relax and enjoy nature. Recreational activities: It offers various activities such as fishing, canoeing and bird watching. Family space: With its rest areas and child-friendly activities, it is ideal for family outings. Photography: The views of the lake, especially at sunrise or sunset, offer exceptional photographic opportunities. The lake of the Georges Valbon Departmental Park is a key place that enriches the experience of the park, by offering a calming and diverse natural space for all visitors.
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The lake of the Georges Valbon Departmental Park, located in La Courneuve, is one of the major attractions of this vast green space. This body of water, which is an integral part of the park, adds an extra dimension to the experience of this place of leisure and relaxation. Characteristics of the lake: Dimensions and layout: The lake is relatively large and is surrounded by lawns and paths, making it an ideal place to walk, have a picnic or simply enjoy the scenery. Its banks are designed to facilitate access and offer unobstructed views of the water. Water activities: Although swimming is not permitted, the lake allows activities such as fishing and canoeing, under certain conditions. Specific areas are often dedicated to these activities, allowing visitors to enjoy the lake while respecting safety and conservation rules. Biodiversity: The lake is an important habitat for a variety of birds and other animal species. Visitors can spot ducks, swans and other aquatic species, making the lake a popular place for wildlife viewing. Relaxation Area: The lakeside is furnished with benches and seating areas, allowing visitors to sit and enjoy the tranquility of the water. It is a great place to relax, read a book or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. Scenic View: The lake offers picturesque panoramic views, especially at sunrise or sunset. The reflections in the water and the surrounding landscape create attractive photographic opportunities.
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The most popular lakes in the area include Enghien Lake Promenade, known for its beauty near the city casino and rowing activities. Another favorite is the Lake at Georges Valbon Departmental Park, which offers a peaceful loop for walking and wildlife viewing. Visitors also enjoy Bassin de la Villette, a relaxed spot popular for summer activities like boules, boating, and swimming.
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Enghien Lake Promenade, Bassin de la Villette, and Lake at Georges Valbon Departmental Park are all noted as family-friendly. The Georges Valbon Park, for instance, offers picnic spots and opportunities to see diverse wildlife like ducks and swans. Chanteraines Departmental Park also features an educational farm and a tourist train, making it ideal for children.
The area around Le Bourget offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy running on trails like the 'To – Nice ride loop from La Courneuve' or 'Georges Valbon Park – Georges Valbon Park loop from Le Blanc-Mesnil'. For cycling, there are options such as the 'Étang des Brouillards – George Valbon - The Cascades loop from Drancy' or easier routes like 'A little break from nature loop from Dugny'. Road cycling enthusiasts can explore longer routes like 'Nantouillet Castle – Church of Juilly loop from Drancy'. You can find more details on these activities in the respective guides: Running Trails around Le Bourget, Cycling around Le Bourget, and Road Cycling Routes around Le Bourget.
Yes, the Arsenal Basin is a significant historical site. It was originally a 14th-century ditch for defense, later becoming a port. Since 1983, it has served as a marina, bordered by gardens, and is known as the largest inner-city naval port. Its history is tied to the Charles V enclosure and the Bastille.
The lakes offer diverse natural features. At Lake at Georges Valbon Departmental Park, you'll find a lake within a forest, with artificial but magnificent bodies of water, lawns, and wooded areas. Chanteraines Departmental Park features valleys, groves, and vast meadows, providing a natural break with diverse flora and fauna, including various bird species.
Visitors particularly appreciate the calm and scenic beauty of the lakes. For instance, the Enghien Lake Promenade is praised for its beauty and the sight of rowers. The Bassin de la Villette is loved for its relaxed atmosphere, especially in summer, where locals gather for boules, aperitifs, and boating. The Lake at Georges Valbon Departmental Park is valued for its peaceful loop, combining nature and design, and opportunities for picnics and wildlife viewing.
Yes, many lakes offer excellent paths for walking and running. The Lake at Georges Valbon Departmental Park has a nice loop for runners, allowing you to train by the water. Chanteraines Departmental Park also provides many well-appointed paths for jogging or a leisurely stroll. The Running Trails around Le Bourget guide offers specific routes.
While swimming is not permitted in all lakes, Bassin de la Villette is recommended in summer for activities including swimming, especially during the annual 'Paris Plages' event. For other lakes like the one at Georges Valbon Departmental Park, swimming is generally not allowed, but other water activities like canoeing might be possible under certain conditions.
Absolutely. The Lake at Georges Valbon Departmental Park is ideal for picnics, offering several spots in the shade or sun. Chanteraines Departmental Park also provides quiet places for picnics amidst its vast meadows and wooded areas.
Lac du Bourget, located near Le Bourget-du-Lac, is the largest and deepest natural lake entirely within France. It is nestled between mountains like Mont du Chat and the Bauges Mountains, offering picturesque beauty. It's known for its unique hydrology as a meromictic lake, its inspiration for poets like Alphonse de Lamartine, and its international recognition as a Ramsar site and UNESCO biosphere reserve. It's a hub for water sports, cycling, and offers panoramic viewpoints.
Yes, many lakes offer scenic viewpoints. The Enghien Lake Promenade is appreciated for its beautiful views. The Lake at Georges Valbon Departmental Park offers picturesque panoramic views, especially at sunrise or sunset, with reflections in the water. The Arsenal Basin also provides views of the marina and surrounding gardens.
While specific public transport details for each highlight are not provided, many departmental parks and urban lakes are generally well-served by public transport in the greater Le Bourget area. For example, parks like Georges Valbon and Chanteraines are designed for public access, often with nearby bus or train connections.


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