If you'd like to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city but still be in Paris, the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is the place for you.

A former quarrying area, the Buttes-Chaumont ("bald mountain") is the steepest park in Paris, as well as one of the largest at 61 acres (27 hectares). The hills provide a great workout for walkers and joggers and the cliffs are dramatic.

A maze of walking paths winds up and down the hills. You can find yourself in the middle of woods and cliffs and feel like you're far away. Then you round a bend and see Paris before you.

There's a lovely small Temple to Sybille at the top of a cliff, from which you can get a beautiful view of Sacré-Coeur and Montmartre, while looking down on the park's circular lake.

There's even a small waterfall, and large grassy areas to relax, read, or talk with friends. A variety of trees and beautiful floral plantings provide seemingly endless visual interest.

Down at ground level there are activities for kids, including pony rides, playgrounds, and a carousel. There are also restaurants and snack bars.

Because it's off the beaten track in the 19th arrondissement (the mairie, or town hall is just across from the park), the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont doesn't draw too many tourists. French families and people of all ages enjoy this large and unique city park.

Another effort of Napoléon III, the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont opened in 1867.

Métro: Buttes-Chaumont or Botzaris

Buttes-Chaumont

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