8 places to relax after the Olympics in Paris

This is Paris’ High Line: a green promenade built on top of an ancient railway. Leaving from Bastille, the 5 km long green ribbon transports the jogger or cyclist to the enormous and romantic Bois de Vincennes. I find it irresistible, when Spring is upon us, to stroll the day away, underneath bridges, through flowery meadows and groups of startled pigeons. Come here to fill your lungs with goodness or to teach the kids how to ride a bike.

This former train station has been converted into an ‘eco-friendly’ space. The bar-restaurant offers organic food and the repair workshop gives stuff a second lease on life. Enjoy the tranquillity and green surroundings of the outside, where you can explore an urban farm with a poultry-yard and a community garden.

This small museum, near jardin du Luxembourg and set back from the street, was the home and studio of artist Ossip Zadkine, who lived and worked here from 1928 until 1967. The sculpture garden is a haven of tranquillity and a place to remember this major figure in the École de Paris.

In the heart of Le Marais you will run into these tiny city gardens, which were in vogue during the Second Empire. They have succeeded in retaining their intimate and romantic atmosphere. It’s a place for lovers, teens, the curious and locals to hide, to meet or to seek some peace and quiet. These gardens are enchanting thanks to the mix of rare trees, flowering shrubs and the tiny stream.

One of the most amazing hotels in Paris is located in the centre of the Quartier Latin, near the Pantheon, at the end of a tree-lined courtyard. And yet it is largely unknown. This beautiful pink town house has 51 rooms with a vintage look and feel. The walls are covered with flowery wallpaper and the rooms furnished with antiques. The highlight is the quiet garden where breakfast is served as soon as the sun rises.

The Eugène Delacroix museum is in the painter’s house and studio, overlooking a delightful private garden. This intimate green oasis in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a haven of tranquillity, as the artist originally hoped it would be. The flower beds, which have been reproduced from illustrations, are just as the artist originally wanted them to be and reflect his passion for nature. Benches invite visitors to enjoy the peace and quiet.

Considered one of the ten most beautiful parks in the world Bagatelle is also the perfect place for a family picnic. Caves, waterfalls, a rose garden, a small forest and large stretches of grass… it’s all there, inviting you to dream away and relax. A nice plus in this historic park is the peacocks that roam around freely, which children always find fascinating.

This charming square, which has been redesigned in recent years, is only a short walk from the vibrant working-class neighbourhood of Belleville. Gourmet restaurants and groceries opened in the square and the surrounding streets, adding significant value to this block.