Paris Vignettes: The City’s Glorious Gardens in Spring

The Paris Vignettes series features the inspired work of street photographer William “Bill” O’Such in themed installments

One of Paris most enchanting aspects is its green space: lush parks, gardens, and hidden retreats where the city’s buzz fades away, replaced by a chorus of birds amidst the flowers and people relaxing on the iconic green benches. For one of my “green days,” I rode Metro line 13 up to Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, a haven of rolling hills and picturesque views. The park’s winding paths invite exploration, with every turn offering a new surprise — a cascading waterfall here, a dramatic stone bridge there. If you haven’t visited, it’s a must-see, surrounded by charming neighborhoods, each brimming with character.

As I wandered, I noticed how the city’s gardeners increasingly encourage biodiversity in Paris. A small wooden structure (“petites hebergements”) welcomed you as you entered the park, providing “lodging” for beneficial insects. These critters play a crucial role in pollinating the park’s vibrant flowers (“épanouissement”), fostering a flourishing ecosystem.

Afterwards, I ventured to the nearby Parc de Belleville, a more intimate but equally captivating spot. Here, amidst well-manicured lawns and hidden corners (“sourire parc belleville”), I stumbled upon a vineyard — an unexpected gem in the heart of Paris. The park’s terraced layout offers stunning panoramic views of the city, with the Eiffel Tower peeking through the skyline.

On my way home, I passed through Square Léopold Achille in Le Marais, a modest yet lively square where families gathered to play and relax. As I sat on a bench, I glanced up to see a magnificent magnolia tree (“magnolia dans le marais”), its massive branches heavy with blossoms. Nearby, a blooming bush (“rose partout”) added another splash of color.

Even the cemeteries in Paris hold their share of greenery (“verdure dans le cimitiere”). At Cimetière du Montparnasse, ivy and ferns intertwined with ancient gravestones, creating an atmosphere both peaceful and contemplative.

But perhaps the most joyful moment came at Parc Monceau. Beyond its manicured lawns and stately statues, I started my adventure with photographing shoes, and while getting close to ground level I spotted a sprightly puppy (“le chien qui se pavane”) who was trying to keep pace with its pack, while another dog waited nearby, exuding confidence and contentment (“je suis pret”)