Mandeville’s go-to getaway
Residents of Mandeville, Covington and other nearby towns and cities like to get out every once in a while. It can be refreshing to get away from the cities and schools and just enjoy the outdoors. Luckily, Mandeville has just the thing that is also stooped with classic Louisiana culture.
Overlooking the vast Lake Pontchartrain and its famous causeway bridge, the Mandeville Lakefront on the northshore is a popular public park that welcomes all visitors. This park is a linear stretch running along most of the northern corner of the lake. It’s a peaceful break from the city and a gift to its people.
The Mandeville Lakefront began a couple centuries ago with the founding of the city of Mandeville. Mandeville owes its creation to Bernard Xavier de Marigny de Mandeville whose family owned much of Louisiana’s property including the greater New Orleans area. During this time, de Mandeville maintained a plantation in what is now Fontainebleau State Park and he soon purchased 5,000 acres of the area, intending to build a new town. In 1834, the new town of Mandeville was formed.
The town was originally used as a resort for the wealthy to visit, but over time it gained mass appeal. It soon transitioned to a prosperous city.
Much later in 1956, the north and south shores were connected by the construction of the causeway. The lakefront area was converted to a park to preserve the land and oaks, some of which are over a hundred years old.
The park itself is actually owned by the city of Mandeville. it is open to all who care to visit as long as they abide by a few simple rules.
Pets are welcome. Dogs and their walkers are a frequent sight in this area. Many are seen playing with others and catching frisbees. Some even take a swim every now and then. Officially, however, they must be restrained by a leash.
Countless people have enjoyed the park’s serenity over the years. Listing his favorite things about the lakefront, Covington resident Alan Comardelle II said, ”Nice place for a walk and a talk. A beer and some cheer. Some fun in the sun.” Comardelle elaborates that the park offers a nice, peaceful respite. ”The lakefront is a nice place to socialize with friends, go for a walk, or attend several events held there over the year. One of the nicer places to visit in Mandeville.”
Another suburban Mandeville resident, Colton Scariano, agrees and likes the area for very similar reasons. He noted the lakefront is a ”Lovely place to rent a bike, fly a kite, take a hike, or grab a bite.” The two clearly enjoy getting some fresh air.
Lakeshore Drive and the surrounding area also provide many bars and restaurants so visitors may enjoy the wind and the sun while they eat.
Throughout the lakefront are many benches which offer a nice place to rest but also have deeper meaning. These benches are often commemorated to lost loved ones and stand as memorials to locals.
Some choose to enjoy the day by sailing on Lake Pontchartrain. On breezy days sailboats, jet-skis and even swimmers are a common sight. It can be great fun as long as the wind doesn’t pick up too much and it doesn’t rain.
The weather can be the price to pay for all the luxury. Most houses in the area are elevated for a reason, after all. For all the luxury the area provides the local climate can be quite wrathful. Storms will surge and have even been known to destroy construction projects before their completion.
The houses might be incredible places to live, but a great deal of upkeep is surely required when the weather turns sour. The lakefront can be a fantastic visit, but for many it’s best that way. Better as a place to visit than as a place to live.
