Les Buttes Chaumont: a Parisian Park with Bucolic Vistas

A place to breathe in the concrete jungle

A view of the park, Les Buttes Chaumont, in Paris’ 19th district. Le Temple de Sibylle is one of its distinguishing features. This picture was taken by the author.

My favorite park in Paris has depth and personality. Built into the side of a steep hill, its many layers and textures give it dramatic flare. There are sweeping views of its trees, lakes, and the city’s northern suburbs look majestic in the distance. Walking through its winding pathways is a feast for the senses. It’s filled with the sound of chatter, laughter, heavy breathing as joggers run past, wine glasses clinking as lovers toast the sunset — in the midst of a bustling city, this is where people kick off their shoes, languidly lie in the grass to contemplate the sky or read a book.