Arboretum de la Vallée aux Loups

This stunning botanical garden offers families a peaceful escape from Paris with winding paths perfect for little explorers, open lawns for picnicking, and an incredible variety of trees and plants from around the world. Kids will love hunting for different leaf shapes, spotting squirrels and birds, and running freely through this beautifully maintained 13-hectare park while parents enjoy the serene landscaping and historic grounds.

• ✓Diverse collection of rare and exotic trees from Asia, Americas, and beyond
• ✓Peaceful walking trails perfect for nature exploration and leaf collecting
• ✓Open lawns ideal for picnics and letting kids run freely
• ✓Beautiful seasonal displays including spring flowers and autumn colors
• ✓Historic landscape design with charming pathways and benches

1. 1.Bring a picnic lunch as there are lovely grassy areas perfect for family dining, though no food vendors are on-site.
2. 2.Pick up a free map at the entrance to navigate the different garden sections and find the most interesting tree specimens for your nature scavenger hunt.
3. 3.Visit in spring (April-May) for spectacular blooming flowers and azaleas, or autumn (October) for brilliant fall foliage that kids love collecting.
4. 4.Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain includes gentle slopes and some unpaved trails.
5. 5.Download a tree identification app before your visit to make it educational and interactive for older children.

Weekday mornings (10:00-11:30 AM) are quietest, perfect for peaceful nature walks. Spring and autumn offer the most dramatic scenery, while summer provides lush greenery and longer daylight hours for exploration.

Admission is completely free, making this an excellent budget-friendly family option. Limited street parking is available nearby, or take RER B to Robinson station (15-minute walk). Bring your own snacks and water as facilities are minimal.

Open year-round with consistent hours. Spring (April-May) features blooming flowers and fresh greenery. Autumn (September-October) showcases brilliant fall colors. Winter visits are possible but shorter daylight hours apply. Check ahead for occasional closures during severe weather.

The charming town center of Chatenay-Malabry (10-minute walk) has several creperies and cafes with outdoor seating. For a family-friendly option, head to the nearby shopping area at Velizy 2 (5-minute drive) which offers diverse food courts and chain restaurants familiar to international visitors.