Located just thirty minutes outside Paris in a relaxing corner of the Essonne region, the Port aux Cérises is one of the best places near the capital to come for outdoor family activities in a lively (if slightly old-fashioned) setting. Attractions here include playgrounds, an equestrian centre, a miniature train track, a skate park, mini golf and an open-air swimming pool. You can make your way from one to the other either on foot or by bike along paths that run along the edges of the Port’s two lakes.
The most popular activity here is the elaborate tree-climbing course featuring ladders, nets and pontoons (€5.50-€8 a go). The zip wire over the lake is also great fun, as are the little rollercoaster, giant swings, inflatable toboggans, plus the angling and canoeing. A number of other activities are also reserved for under-12s in a safely cordoned off area. To boost your energy levels, there are five food outlets inside the park serving simple yet relatively healthy grub.
This isn’t the place to come for a peaceful day out, but after an afternoon spent running around, it’s idyllic to sit by the banks of the Seine and gaze at the canal boats floating by.