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8 ultra-cool escapades accessible by train in under 1 hour from Paris

undefined undefined 20 juin 2025 undefined 18h00

The Editor

Daniel_Kay

When Paris turns into a hot plate, every little breeze feels like a luxury. Instead of melting on your balcony or dousing yourself with lukewarm water, go find some fresh air elsewhere.

Good news: in less than an hour by train, there are green spots, rushing waters, or refreshing rocks where you can unwind in nature. We’re taking you on a journey to 10 beautiful getaways, tried and tested for their refreshing vibes.

1. The Hollande Ponds

On the edge of the Rambouillet forest, these former royal reservoirs have turned into a leisure hotspot where you can swim, paddle, and picnic under the pines. Less crowded than the classic waterways of the Île-de-France, it’s the perfect spot for a nature dip.

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La Verrière Station + shuttle or bike


2. The Grand Canal of Sceaux Park 

If you're looking to stay in the urban zone while still enjoying some fresh air, Sceaux Park has it all covered: fountains, water jets, shaded pathways, and lawns that are just perfect for a nap under the linden trees.

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RER B stop Parc de Sceaux


3. The Gorges of Apremont 

Just 40 minutes from Paris, these sandstone blocks nestled in the Fontainebleau forest provide a stunning backdrop that's straight out of the Rockies: climbing rocks, ferns, natural basins, and absolute silence.

Fontainebleau-Avon Station + bus or bike


4. Canoeing on the Marne and riverside café

Set off from Joinville-le-Pont or Nogent for a canoe adventure under the willows. Spend the afternoon at a riverside café, a glass of rosé in hand and your feet in the water.

RER A or line P


5. The sources of the Bièvre in Guyancourt

In the Yvelines, the sources of the Bièvre feed a series of ponds and small streams. The water is clear, the willows gently lean, and the scenery is perfect for slow and soothing walks.

Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines Train Station + 10 minutes on foot


6. Meudon Forest and the Val Fleury Stream

With its rolling hills, wooded areas, and charming little wet clearings, the Meudon Forest stays fresh. As a bonus: the discreet Val Fleury stream, perfect for walking barefoot on the moss.

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RER C Meudon–Val-Fleury

7. The Cergy-Pontoise Leisure Island

Looking for some thrills and refreshing water? Head to Cergy and its huge water sports center featuring a beach, supervised swimming, water skiing, and even an artificial surfing wave!

RER A Cergy-Préfecture + shuttle


8. The caves of La Roche-Guyon

These ancient troglo-carrier caves maintain a constant temperature of 12°C, even when it's 38°C in the shade! Perfect for a unique getaway, complete with a castle, a terraced garden, and lovely strolls along the Seine.

Mantes-la-Jolie Station + bus to La Roche-Guyon