Top 5 Lakes around Nanterre
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 use.
Best lakes around Nanterre
- The most popular lakes is Saint-Cucufa Pond, a lake located in the heart of the national forest of Malmaison. It offers a peaceful and preserved setting, accessible after a walk among the trees. This stretch of water is home to ducks, batrachians, and fish, making it an idyllic place for a picnic or to rest.
- Another must-see spot is Chanteraines Departmental Park, a large green space with lakes and varied landscapes. This 85-hectare park offers a nature break with meadows, woods, and lakes, providing opportunities for relaxation and outdoor recreation close to the capital.
- Visitors also love Chanteraines Lookout, a viewpoint offering views of the pond. In a region with generally flat terrain, this lookout provides an opportunity for scenic photos and a change of elevation.
- Nanterre is known for its accessible natural ponds, departmental parks with lakes, and scenic viewpoints. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from tranquil forest ponds to expansive parklands.
- The lakes around Nanterre are appreciated by the komoot community, with 3 highlights receiving 491 upvotes and featuring 68 photos.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Saint-Cucufa Pond
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Chanteraines Departmental Park
Highlight • Forest
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Chanteraines Lookout
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Nanterre
Tips from the Community
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.
0
0
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.
1
0
In a region where the terrain is fairly flat, any climb and viewpoint is welcome! Take the opportunity to take photos of the pond.
2
0
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.
1
0
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.
1
0
Located in the heart of the national forest of Malmaison, the pond of Saint-Cucufa offers a peaceful and preserved setting. You reach it after a nice walk among the trees. This stretch of water is home to ducks, batrachians and fish. An idyllic place for a picnic or to rest!
3
1
A well-known crossing point in the region many mountain bike trails around
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural environment can I expect around Nanterre's lakes?
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.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Nanterre?
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.
What activities can I do at the lakes around Nanterre?
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.
Can I go hiking or walking around the lakes?
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.
Are there opportunities for cycling or mountain biking near the lakes?
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.
Is swimming allowed in the lakes around Nanterre?
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.
What are the best lakes for a picnic near Nanterre?
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.
Are there any viewpoints to enjoy scenic photos of the lakes?
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.
How accessible are the lakes around Nanterre by public transport?
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.
What makes the lakes around Nanterre popular with visitors?
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.
Are there any specific wildlife to look out for at the lakes?
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.
Most popular routes around Nanterre
Most popular attractions around Nanterre
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Find the best lakes around Nanterre per region:
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Nanterre? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
