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Bois de Vincennes

A delectable run through the "green lungs" of Paris.

Trail Running Easy

Distance
16 km
Ascent
45 m
Descent
59 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
35 m
High Point
67 m
Gradient
Bois de Vincennes Map

Holding the title of the largest park in Paris and home to a segment of the city’s famous marathon, the Bois de Vincennes is a must-run if you’re searching for trails in Paris. Beyond the medieval chateaus, floral gardens, and history of ancient kings, there’s more to Paris’s “green lung" than first meets the eye.

Description

Sitting with lotus posture and standing 9 metres tall, endowed in gold leaf, sits Europe’s largest Buddha. The statue resides in the Pagode de Vincennes in the park and is used by Buddhist schools of the Parisian region—a fun fact to think about as you run the 11km circumference of the park and something to take your mind off the incredible pastries that await you at the end.

There are miles of paved and unpaved trails within the grounds, and it’s a good idea to just explore your way through. Keep an eye out for the paths marked “Circuits Pedestres,” which includes 11km and 8km loops.

When you’ve built up a great appetite, an absolute must for the sweet-toothed is the nearby Blé Sucré. The New York Times and National Geographic have written about the desserts, viennoiserie, and breads made here, and there’s a good reason. Ils sont délicieux!

The Promenade Plantée is an incredible green walkway, elevated above the streets of Paris. You can run all the way back to Bastille from the Bois de Vincennes from the Port Dorée entrance to add extra length (and magic) to your adventure.

Difficulty

Easy

Low Exposure

1 out of 4

The path is on completely flat land and potential injury is limited to falling over.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

all year round

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area