Attractions and Places To See around Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois include a blend of historical sites, green spaces, and cultural venues in the eastern suburbs of Paris. The area features remnants of ancient woodlands like the Forêt de Bondy and the Canal de l'Ourcq, offering natural pathways. Historical landmarks such as the Two Guard Pavilions and various churches contribute to the town's character. Cultural activities are centered around the Espace des Arts and annual events like the Pavillons Jazz Festival.
Best attractions and places to see around Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois
- The most popular attractions is Canal de L'ourcq, a trail that offers pleasant cycling and walking paths. The cycle path along the canal separates walking and cycling routes, providing a relaxed experience through green surroundings.
- Another must-see spot is Vincennes Castle, a historical site. This royal castle, located at the gates of Paris, features a nearly 50-meter-high keep and served as a royal residence between the 12th and 17th centuries.
- Visitors also love In the shade of the Canal de l'Ourcq, a pleasant cycle path. This section offers a tree-shaded route for an easy escape from Paris by bike.
- Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois is known for historical landmarks, green spaces, and cultural venues. Visitors can explore ancient woodlands, historical buildings, and enjoy local cultural events.
- The attractions around Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 980 upvotes and 64 photos shared.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Vincennes Castle
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Canal de L'ourcq
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In the shade of the Canal de l'Ourcq
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Moulin footbridge
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Canal de L'Ourcq
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Along the forest park of Sevran, a trench had to be dug to pass the canal.
Before starting at Mareuil-sur-Ourcq to join the Villette basin in Paris, the Ourcq river is canalized and navigable from the “Port aux Perches” in the town of Silly-la-Poterie.
With the Canal Saint-Denis, the Bassin de la Villette and the Canal Saint-Martin, it constitutes the network of Parisian canals, 130 km long and belonging to the city of Paris. Its construction began in 1802 and was completed in 1825. It was subsequently subject to several changes including the addition of five locks, a factory supplying the water to the canal at Trilbardou and the widening of the gauge on the first eleven kilometers.
Originally, the main objective of the canal was to supply Paris with drinking water; today, its use is reserved for roads. Until the 1960s, it was traversed over its entire length by the Ourcq flutes, barges adapted to the small size of most of the canal. Since 1962, only the first eleven kilometers, between the basin of Villette and Aulnay-sous-Bois, free of locks, have been open to commercial traffic: approximately one million tonnes are transported each year by barges, the deadweight of which are cannot exceed 400 tonnes. Beyond that, the canal, whose depth is now 80 cm, is intended for yachting. The Ourcq canal has also been used since its creation to supply the Saint-Martin and Saint-Denis canals with water. Since the end of the 1990s, the surroundings of the canal located in the Parisian agglomeration have been rehabilitated and developed to make it a green axis open to leisure activities such as cycle tourism and hiking.
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Tips from the Community
Quite busy in the morning, especially on weekends
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Water point available in the mill park
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Part of the Team Rynkeby Berlin tour in 2024. Unfortunately solo on this particular day.
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Located at the gates of Paris, the Château de Vincennes is a must-see in French history. Its nearly 50-meter-high keep makes it one of the tallest fortresses in Europe. The château served as a royal residence between the 12th and 17th centuries. Find all the information on accessing the château here: https://parisjetaime.com/billets/chateau-de-vincennes-m9000599.
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Superb view of the ruins, Marne
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This part of the Canal is very pleasant to ride, especially in summer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features and green spaces can I explore in Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois?
Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois offers several pleasant green spaces. The Canal de l'Ourcq is a prominent feature, providing peaceful pathways for walking and cycling. You can also find remnants of ancient woodlands in the nearby Forêt de Bondy, ideal for hiking and picnicking. Within the town, parks like Square Honoré d'Estienne d'Orves, Parc Lefèvre, and Parc de l'Hôtel de Ville offer spots for relaxation and recreation.
Are there historical sites to visit in Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois?
Yes, the town has a rich history reflected in its landmarks. You can see The Two Guard Pavilions, which are the namesake of the town and once marked the entrance to the former Château du Raincy. Other notable historical sites include the Église Notre-Dame de Lourdes, Église Saint-Augustin-des-Coquetiers, and the historic Place de la Basoche. A 17th-century Armorial Boundary Stone also marks ancient land divisions.
What cultural activities are available in Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois?
The Espace des Arts is the heart of the town's cultural life, hosting concerts, theatrical performances, exhibitions, and cinema. Art enthusiasts can also visit the Galerie Jean-Baptiste Claudot within the Espace des Arts. Annually, the town hosts the Pavillons Jazz Festival in late May, featuring international jazz artists. Don't miss the weekly market every Tuesday and Friday for a taste of local tradition.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois?
Absolutely. The pathways along the Canal de l'Ourcq are family-friendly for walks and bike rides, with separated routes for cyclists and pedestrians. Parks like Square Honoré d'Estienne d'Orves and Parc Lefèvre are popular with families. For a historical outing, Vincennes Castle, a royal castle with a towering keep, is also considered family-friendly and offers a glimpse into French history.
What kind of cycling routes can I find near Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois?
The area is excellent for cycling. The Canal de l'Ourcq offers a very pleasant and relaxed cycle path, often separated from walking routes and surrounded by green scenery. A particularly enjoyable section is In the shade of the Canal de l'Ourcq, providing a tree-shaded escape. For more extensive rides, you can explore various MTB and gravel biking routes, such as those found in the nearby MTB Trails around Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois or Gravel biking around Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois guides.
Where can I go for a walk or hike near Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois?
For walks, the pathways along the Canal de l'Ourcq are ideal for peaceful strolls. For more extensive hiking, the nearby Forêt de Bondy offers opportunities to explore ancient woodlands. You can also find various running trails, including loops around Parc de la Fosse Maussoin or the Vaujours Hill in Coubron, detailed in the Running Trails around Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois guide.
What is the best time to visit Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois?
Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois can be enjoyed throughout the year. Spring and summer (May to September) are ideal for outdoor activities like cycling along the Canal de l'Ourcq and exploring parks, with pleasant weather for the Pavillons Jazz Festival in late May. Autumn offers beautiful foliage in the green spaces. Its proximity to Paris makes it accessible for day trips to major attractions year-round.
Are there any unique viewpoints or charming spots in the area?
Yes, the Moulin footbridge is described as a charming and bucolic spot, offering pleasant views as it crosses the Marne. The pathways along the Canal de l'Ourcq also provide scenic perspectives of the waterways and surrounding greenery, especially the tree-shaded sections.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois?
Visitors particularly appreciate the relaxed and pleasant cycling and walking experiences along the Canal de l'Ourcq, noting its beautiful green surroundings and separated paths. The historical significance and impressive scale of Vincennes Castle also receive high praise, with many highlighting its long history and status as a royal residence.
Can I access these attractions using public transport?
Les Pavillons-Sous-Bois is a suburb of Paris, offering convenient access to the city's public transport network. While specific details for each attraction vary, the area is generally well-connected, allowing for easy travel to local sites and onward to Parisian attractions. For instance, Vincennes Castle is located at the gates of Paris and is easily reachable.
Are there any markets or local shopping experiences?
Yes, the town hosts a beloved weekly market every Tuesday and Friday in the town center. This is a great opportunity to experience local life, find fresh produce, and discover artisanal products. The Place de la Basoche, historically a clearing in the Bondy Forest, also hosts a shaded market today.
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