As is the case for most mythical beasts, the idea of the dragon seems to have been around since pretty much the beginning of time. However, this dragon-shaped monster at the Parc de la Villette has only been around since the 1970s. Originally built from wood and metal, the gigantic structure has since provided climbing areas, obstacles, activities and toboggan games to generations of miniature Parisians. At least, this was the case before health and safety requirements led to the old dragon being shut down for eight years for renovation.
Up and running again from spring 2015, go and gawp at the shiny beast yourself: 25 metres long, entirely metallic and painted in rainbow colours. Older children (8-14) can mount the creature using ropes, rubber stairs or nets scattered across its body, or alternatively be spat out along a massive tongue-shaped tube. For younger children, there are cute little rocking animals, merry-go-rounds and balance games strewn along the dragon’s tail. Parents, you can watch on from the safety of the surrounding benches, tables and trees.