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Llamas and camels stroll through this village just 1 hour from Paris

undefined undefined 28 juin 2024 undefined 17h11

The Editor

© Facebook / Christian Schoettl

It's no secret, France is full of quirky little villages, each with its own unique features. Whether it's a culinary specialty, an architectural originality, or a singular history, the French love these little gems to explore for a weekend. And Parisians, rejoice, we've found a place (truly) like no other, just 1 hour from the capital.

If, like us, you love animals, but are getting a little tired of the usual dogs, cats, and more recently crabs that you come across in the streets of Paris, no worries, we have a solution for you. Head to Essonne, and more specifically the village of Janvry, where the animal park is home to no less than 100 individuals. A magical place where you will have the chance to see some uncommon species, like llamas, and dromedaries!


A different kind of passion

For the small town of Janvry, it all started over 25 years ago, when the mayor, Christian Schoettl, decided to organize an animal parade in the town. He then developed a passion for dromedaries, more suited to the French climate than one might think. This led to the Janvry Animal Park expanding and welcoming new tenants.

Since then, the mayor, very active within the French association of camelids, has fought for the village to host the first (and only) two editions of the camelid fair. But also an impressive camel parade and other llamas earlier this year, to celebrate the fact that 2024 has been elected as the international year of camelids. On this occasion, delegations from 34 countries gathered in Essonne.

Today, the Animal Park has 4 dromedaries among its residents. You can also come across deer, buffalos, wallabys, llamas, ducks... And here, there is no question of putting the animals in cages or depriving them of their natural environment. All are adapted to the climate of the region.Ile-de-France, and roam as they please within the 6 hectares of land. And to extend the experience all the way, you can even sleep in a cabin on the property, amidst the animals.


A rich city

More than just a simple gathering of camels, Janvry is a village with a rich history. Famous for its typical Christmas market, the town is also metamorphic, as it turns into a ski resort in winter ("Janvoriaz"), and a beach resort in summer ("Janvry Plage"). In short, it's a city filled with treasures, bustling with numerous events.

The place even received the title of Favorite Village of the French, thanks to its history, its architecture (especially the magnificent castle), and more generally to the always warm welcome of its inhabitants. So, fancy a little safari?

Janvry (91640)
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