Best lakes around Gentilly offer diverse natural and recreational opportunities. The region features a mix of natural and artificial lakes, often integrated into larger green spaces and historical sites. These bodies of water provide settings for various outdoor activities and offer natural retreats near urban areas.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Gentilly.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
super place for running, watch out for the opening hours! January 8am-5pm February 8am-6pm March 7:30am-7pm (8:30pm from daylight saving time change) April 7am-8:30pm May 7am-9pm June 7am-9pm July 7am-9pm August 7am-8:30pm September 7:30am-8pm October 8am-7pm (5pm from daylight saving time change) November 8am-5pm December 8am-5pm
0
0
Panoramic view of the Grand Canal just after the entrance. An ideal place for a family walk, which is also a favorite ground for runners.
0
0
Lots of runners. Ideal to visit just a few kilometers from Paris. Line B stop Parc de Sceaux or La Croix de Berny
0
1
Green lung of eastern Paris. Very pleasant
0
0
The Luxembourg Gardens are one of the most beautiful and emblematic parks in Paris. Located in the 6th District, these gardens were designed in 1612 by order of Marie de Médicis, and are a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature in the middle of the city.
14
0
The Sceaux estate is an idyllic place for a stroll. From the Grand Canal you can see the castle and the beautiful gardens of the park. Since 2023, it is possible to cross the Grand Canal on the surface of the water thanks to the Gué.
1
1
Yes, several lakes in the Gentilly area are well-suited for families. Lake Daumesnil in the Bois de Vincennes is a popular choice, offering a natural break near the capital. The Luxembourg Palace and Gardens, with its large pond, is also very family-friendly, featuring statues and open spaces. Additionally, Villebon Pond in the Meudon forest and Lake Gravelle are noted for their family-friendly atmosphere.
The lakes around Gentilly offer diverse opportunities for outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking and jogging around many of them. For more structured activities, there are numerous routes available. For example, you can find various running trails, including a moderate 9.5 km loop around Parc de la Cité Universitaire and Lake at Parc Montsouris, or a 12.8 km loop around Lake Daumesnil. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore routes like the 19.8 km 'Fleury reservoir – Trivaux Pond loop' or the longer 'Meudon Pond – Aqueduc de Buc loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Running Trails around Gentilly and MTB Trails around Gentilly guides.
The lakes around Gentilly are beautiful year-round, offering different experiences with each season. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the lush greenery and warmer weather, perfect for walks and picnics. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, especially in areas like the Meudon forest around Villebon Pond. Even in winter, the serene landscapes provide a peaceful setting for walks, as noted by visitors enjoying the quiet beauty of places like Lake Gravelle.
The lakes near Gentilly are home to various natural elements and wildlife. At Villebon Pond, you can observe ducks and gray herons amidst weeping willows. The Bois de Vincennes, where Lake Daumesnil and Lake Gravelle are located, offers a natural break with diverse flora and fauna. Even artificial lakes like Daumesnil provide a chance to admire the nature of the Ile-de-France region.
Yes, the region boasts significant historical sites alongside its lakes. The most prominent is the Luxembourg Palace and Gardens. This garden, inspired by the Florentine Boboli garden, was created in 1612 at the initiative of Queen Marie de Médicis and features 106 statues, the monumental Medici fountain, and a large pond. While Lake Daumesnil is artificial, it was created during the Second Empire, adding a historical layer to its natural appeal.
For a more peaceful experience, consider visiting Lake Gravelle, located in the south-east of the Bois de Vincennes. It's described as a very pretty, peaceful lake nestled in the woods. Villebon Pond in the Meudon forest is also known as a popular spot for nature lovers seeking tranquility.
Yes, many lakes around Gentilly are surrounded by easy walking paths. The Upper Lake of the Bois de Boulogne is a great local recreation area popular with joggers and walkers. Lake Daumesnil also offers pleasant walks, allowing you to admire the nature of the Paris region. The paths around Villebon Pond are also suitable for leisurely strolls, connecting to other ponds via small canals.
Absolutely! Cycling is a popular activity around the lakes. The Upper Lake of the Bois de Boulogne is particularly great for cycling. For more extensive rides, you can explore various MTB and gravel biking routes in the area. For instance, the 'View of the Château de Sceaux – La Coulée Verte in Châtillon loop' is an easy 23 km MTB route. You can find more cycling options in the MTB Trails around Gentilly and Gravel biking around Gentilly guides.
Visitors particularly enjoy the natural escape and recreational opportunities provided by the lakes near Gentilly. They appreciate the chance to relax and get away from city stress, as highlighted by those visiting the Upper Lake of the Bois de Boulogne. The beauty of places like Lake Gravelle and the natural break offered by Lake Daumesnil are frequently praised. The diverse landscapes, from serene ponds to historical gardens, also contribute to a highly positive visitor experience.
Yes, several lakes offer loop trails perfect for walking or jogging. For example, you can find a 12.8 km loop around Lake Daumesnil. The Luxembourg Gardens also feature a loop trail, allowing you to explore its extensive grounds. These loops provide excellent opportunities for a continuous and scenic outdoor experience.
While specific fishing regulations vary, Villebon Pond in the Meudon forest is noted as a popular place for fishermen. It's always advisable to check local regulations and permit requirements before planning a fishing trip to any of the lakes.


Still not found your perfect lake around Gentilly? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.