Best lakes around Nanterre are found in the broader Île-de-France region, as Nanterre itself is an urban commune in the western suburbs of Paris. The area offers significant recreational opportunities, with many rivers and man-made bodies of water transformed into popular recreation sites. Notable options include the lakes of the Bois de Boulogne, which are easily accessible and provide a natural escape close to the city. The region's navigable rivers also contribute to numerous lakes and ponds developed for recreational…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
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Popular around Nanterre
Did you know? You will discover the Ferme des Hautes-Bornes and its domestic animals, the Micheletty circus where shows take place every week, and the fishing ponds.
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Discover the large park in the north of Hauts-de-Seine with its little train, its educational farm, its ponds... The departmental park of Chanteraines is located straddling the communes of Gennevilliers and Villeneuve-la-Garenne. With its 82 hectares of greenery, it is one of the largest in the north of the department. A little secret, find this spot to get a magnificent view of Paris and Île-Saint-Denis.
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This 200-hectare forest was acquired by Joséphine de Beauharnais in 1800, the first wife of Emperor Napoleon I. The estate extended over a thousand hectares as far as the woods of La Celle-Saint-Cloud. The Empress particularly appreciated this walking area and often took her guests there for horse-drawn carriage rides. Near the Saint-Cucufa pond, she had a sheepfold and a stable built. The latter is still visible and today houses the forest rangers of the National Forestry Office. After Joséphine's death, the estate was divided up and partially deforested. It was her great-nephew, Napoleon III, who saved the forest from fragmentation through exchanges. He bought it in 1856 and incorporated it into his civil list. In 1870 and 1871, the Malmaison State Forest was the site of fierce assaults by Captain de Nisme's artillery against the Prussians entrenched behind the Buzenval wall. In 1871, the forest became state-owned when it became part of state property. Since 1966, it has been managed by the National Forestry Office. It is composed mainly of trees such as chestnut, oak, ash, cherry, sycamore, beech, and birch. You descend to the beautiful pond on the left (be careful, there is a steep descent with many walkers and dogs—usually kept on leashes) where you can admire numerous birds (woodpecker, moorhen, heron, etc.). Access to the pond is via an unpaved path for 100 meters. Access to the Château de la Malmaison and its park in Rueil-Malmaison (bicycle racks in front of the castle entrance): 2 km. You will then join trail no. 4 "From the Empress to the Impressionists." Go back up to the right until you reach the entrance to the woods (the way you came in). On the way up, on the left: you can complete the fitness trail on foot. At the exit of the Bois de St. Cucufa: restaurant and bakery. Head towards the old village of Garches, a steep descent. You can admire the St. Louis Church, the Sidney Bechet Cultural Center, the town hall (restrooms accessible on weekdays), and its park. There are many shops but no bicycle racks.
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The Parc départemental des Chanteraines, located in the communes of Gennevilliers and Villeneuve-la-Garenne in the north-western suburbs of Paris, is a large green space of 85 hectares that offers a real breath of fresh air close to the capital. Created in the 1970s, the park stretches along the Seine and offers a variety of activities for all ages, in a natural and peaceful setting. The park is divided into several thematic areas, including meadows, woods, lakes and gardens, offering visitors multiple opportunities for relaxation and outdoor recreation. Among the main attractions are the educational farm, which allows children to discover the farm animals, as well as the Train des Chanteraines, a small tourist train that crosses the park. The park is also an ideal place for cycling, jogging, picnics and bird watching. Why visit the Parc départemental des Chanteraines? Nature and relaxation: With its vast meadows, lakes and wooded areas, the park offers a perfect setting for a walk, a picnic or simply to relax away from the noise of the city. Educational farm: This is an ideal place for families, allowing children to discover animals such as sheep, goats, and chickens, while learning about agriculture and nature. Outdoor activities: Whether for jogging, cycling, or simply a stroll, the park has many well-appointed paths and cycle paths, offering varied routes. Train des Chanteraines: This little tourist train, popular with families, allows you to tour the park in a fun way and offers a beautiful view of the different areas of the park. Biodiversity: The park is home to a diverse fauna and flora, making it an excellent place for bird watching and discovering nature. The Chanteraines Departmental Park is a true oasis of greenery and tranquility in the suburbs of Paris, offering a multitude of leisure and nature discovery activities for families, sports enthusiasts and nature lovers.
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In a region where the terrain is fairly flat, any climb and viewpoint is welcome! Take the opportunity to take photos of the pond.
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The park of the Hauts-de-Seine department was created in 1975. For athletes, it offers a nature health course with 33 pieces of equipment distributed in all sectors of the park, which makes this course the largest health course offered in French departmental parks but also the largest in Europe.
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This Gennevilliers park allows for a nature break with its valleys, groves and lawns. Its name comes from the green frogs (tree frogs) which were found here in numbers in the past.
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The pond of Saint-Cucufa is a magnificent body of water located in the national forest of the same name. This natural pond offers a peaceful and preserved setting, surrounded by greenery and lush vegetation, which makes it an ideal place for walks and relaxation in the heart of nature.
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While Nanterre itself is an urban area, the nearby lakes offer a refreshing escape into nature. You'll find serene waters, often surrounded by extensive parkland or forests, providing a peaceful and preserved setting. These areas are home to diverse flora and fauna, including ducks, swans, and various birds, offering a chance to connect with nature close to the city.
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. For instance, Saint-Cucufa Pond is located in a national forest, perfect for a peaceful walk and picnic. Chanteraines Departmental Park is a large green space with lakes, an educational farm, and a tourist train, offering multiple activities for all ages. The Chanteraines Lookout also provides scenic views suitable for family outings.
You can enjoy a variety of activities. Many lakes are perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and bird watching. At the Bois de Boulogne lakes, you can rent a rowboat for a paddle. Chanteraines Departmental Park offers cycling, jogging, and an educational farm. The surrounding areas also provide opportunities for hiking and other outdoor sports.
Absolutely. The lakes are surrounded by numerous paths and trails suitable for walking and hiking. For example, Saint-Cucufa Pond is accessible after a pleasant walk through the national forest of Malmaison. Chanteraines Departmental Park also features many well-appointed paths. For more extensive options, you can explore various hiking routes in the region, such as those found in the MTB Trails around Nanterre guide, which often include sections around ponds and forests.
Yes, the region offers excellent opportunities for cycling. Chanteraines Departmental Park has dedicated paths for cycling. For more adventurous rides, you can find numerous routes nearby. Check out the Road Cycling Routes around Nanterre, MTB Trails around Nanterre, and Gravel biking around Nanterre guides for detailed routes that often pass by or near these beautiful lake areas.
Generally, swimming is prohibited in many of the natural lakes in the region, including those in the Bois de Boulogne, to preserve their natural environment and for safety reasons. These lakes are primarily for enjoying the tranquil atmosphere, boating, and observing wildlife from the shore.
For a delightful picnic, Saint-Cucufa Pond is highly recommended, offering a peaceful and preserved setting within the national forest. Chanteraines Departmental Park also provides vast meadows and lakeside spots perfect for a relaxing outdoor meal.
Yes, the Chanteraines Lookout offers excellent views of the pond, providing a unique opportunity for scenic photos, especially in a region with generally flat terrain. It's a great spot to capture the beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
Many of the recreational lakes in the broader Île-de-France region are easily accessible. For instance, the lakes of the Bois de Boulogne are directly adjacent to communes bordering Nanterre and are well-served by public transport from Paris and its suburbs, making them a convenient option for a quick escape.
Visitors appreciate the lakes around Nanterre for their ability to provide a natural escape close to the bustling city. They offer peaceful settings for relaxation, opportunities for outdoor activities like walking and cycling, and family-friendly environments with amenities like educational farms. The blend of preserved nature and recreational facilities makes them highly appealing.
Yes, the lakes are home to various wildlife. At Saint-Cucufa Pond, you can spot ducks, batrachians, and fish. The Bois de Boulogne lakes are known for their ducks, swans, and other birds. Chanteraines Departmental Park also boasts diverse fauna and flora, making it an excellent spot for bird watching and discovering nature.


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