Why You Have to See the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

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

The Parc des Buttes-Chaumont stands out as one of the most enchanting parks to discover on a sun-drenched Saturday. In striking contrast to the gorgeous but relatively flat Jardin du Luxembourg, this park in the 19th arrondissement presents a captivating landscape of rolling hills, secluded slopes, cascading waterfalls, serene lakes, vibrant gardens, hidden cafés, and much more.

As I recall from a memorable stroll with Patrick Bezzolato, this area was once a gypsum quarry, its mineral wealth fueling the city’s construction before its transformation in 1867 into a picturesque English garden. Consequently, all the park’s distinctive hillsides and valleys were sculpted during its initial phase and subsequently adorned with lush greenery. Nestled in the heart of the park, a welcoming (and trendy!) guinguette beckons.

Wander along the park’s winding paths and you’ll stumble upon a tranquil lake around which benches offer the perfect perch for unwinding and observing the local wildlife. Occasionally, you might even spot adventurous souls making their way to the island, much like the resident ducks.

After my recent visit, a thought crossed my mind: would the mayor of the 19th arrondissement follow the example of their counterpart in the 8th and designate a specific area where dogs could freely roam for a few hours each morning?

For those of you planning an extended stay in Paris, I highly recommend venturing beyond the central districts to discover this area. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the park and also savor the authentic Parisian life unfolding in the surrounding cafés and streets.