Le saviez vous guide - activities

Unusual in the Yvelines: the superb waterfall grotto at Parc du Dr Fauvel in Villennes-sur-Seine

Villennes-sur-Seine, a charming commune in the Yvelines department, is home to a little-known treasure: the waterfalls of the Parc Fauvel grotto. Located some 36 kilometers west of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, this small town near Poissy on the left bank of the Seine boasts a park that combines history and nature. The park, an example of English romanticism, features an unusual grotto and waterfalls.

La Hublotière, Hector Guimard's Art Nouveau villa opens this summer in Le Vésinet (78)

Have you heard of La Hublotière? This Art Nouveau villa, designed by Hector Guimard, is hidden away in the heart of Le Vésinet, in the Yvelines department. Exceptionally, it's opening its doors to the public this summer - a golden opportunity to discover our heritage!

Did you know? There's an abandoned "ghost" water park in the Yvelines department.

There's no shortage of amazing sites in the Paris region. Such is the case of this "ghost" water park in the Yvelines department. Abandoned for more than 20 years and listed as a Monument Historique in 2009, the former leisure center was a popular spot for families from its inauguration in 1935, and remained so for several decades. Here's the story.

Moret-sur-Loing : Medieval and Impressionist city among the most beautiful detours in France

Discover Moret-sur-Loing, this medieval and impressionist city among the Most Beautiful Detours of France, only one hour from Paris. Visit this charming town, famous for its Sucre d'Orge, its royal city and the landscapes of Alfred Sisley.

The original building facade on rue Blomet, Paris 15th arrondissement

Flanking rue Blomet in the 15ᵉ arrondissement of Paris, you may come across the facade of this unusual and original Paris building. This 1909 building, designed by architect Charles Lefebvre, is reminiscent of the grand houses of Normandy.

Did you know? This fountain near the Jardin du Luxembourg represents only 4 continents.

Just off the Jardin du Luxembourg, in the Jardin des Grands Explorateurs, is a grandiose fountain by Napoleon III's sculptor. It represents four women carrying the world, allegories of the continents, but one is missing... find out why!

Did you know? What is the history of the Magnolias in the Jardin du Palais Royal?

It's magnolia season in the gardens of the Palais Royal! Over the past few days, the majestic trees have been decked out in beautiful shades of pink and purple, much to the delight of walkers, tourists and photographers alike. But do you know why there are magnolias in this garden? Back in history...

Climbing District Saint-Lazare, a climbing gym and coworking space hidden in a chapel

How about a climb in an atypical location? Climbing District is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, close to the Saint-Lazare train station. Housed in a hidden former chapel, this climbing gym, which looks like an old library, is sure to surprise. Tip: coworking spaces with free wifi and coffee shop.

Did you know? There are a dozen ghost stations in Paris. Do you know them?

While many Parisians take the metro every day, few are aware that the capital is home to a dozen ghost stations. Operated then finally abandoned or never opened... what are these ghost stations and where are they located in Paris? We tell you all about them.

Did you know? The Place des Fêtes metro station was designed as an air-raid shelter.

Located on lines 7 bis and 11 of the Paris metro, Place des Fêtes station is far from being the busiest on the RATP network. Yet this station hides many secrets. With its unique architecture, Place des Fêtes station was designed as an air-raid shelter for the population. We explain.

Grandma's Day, since when has there been a grandma's day? date and origin

When is Grandmother's Day and where does it come from? Did you know that this celebration, contrary to popular belief, has its origins in a commercial initiative rather than in historical or religious tradition? We tell you all about it...

Did you know? Seine flooding in Paris - what was the worst? Back in pictures

Do you know the worst flood ever to hit Paris? A look back at the flood of January 1910, a historic event that left its mark on the capital.

Did you know? This is the oldest clock in Paris, discover its history

Do you know the oldest public clock in Paris, still in operation? Fixed to the walls of the Conciergerie in the heart of the Ïle de la Cité, this clock has been telling the time since 1371. Commissioned by Charles V, the clock marks the king's time.

Did you know? Where is the highest point in Paris?

What's the highest point in Paris? It's an interesting question, and one worth considering. We're not talking here about the highest vantage point in the capital, but the highest point on land in Paris. Belleville, Montmartre? What do you think?

Did you know? The Statue of Joan of Arc in Paris has been secretly replaced

The equestrian statue of Joan of Arc, which stands proudly on the Place des Pyramides in the 1st arrondissement, is one of Paris's most emblematic monuments. Since its creation in the 19th century, it has never ceased to be a political issue, although its history remains little-known. Did you know that the statue we admire today is not the original, but a replica secretly substituted by the artist himself?

Did you know? Why is the Tuileries metro station green?

Since June 2023, the Tuileries station on line 1 of the Paris metro has been astonishing with its verdant decor, the work of Cyprien Chabert echoing the Jardin des Tuileries. Note that this decoration is ephemeral and will remain in place until 2030.

Did you know? What is the history and origin of Valentine's Day?

February 14 is Lovers' Day, more commonly known as Valentine's Day. But do you know who this Valentine is and why we celebrate this event on February 14? We explain the history and origins of Valentine's Day.

Did you know? The statue of a famous Roman she-wolf is hidden in a Parisian square.

In front of the Sorbonne lies a sculpture with a strong symbolic link between Paris and Rome: a she-wolf. A replica of the Capitoline She-Wolf, it was donated to the French capital as part of the twinning agreement between the two cities, a reminder of the legend of Remus and Romulus.

History of Paris: the Cemetery of the Innocents and what remains of it today

Did you know? In the Halles district of Paris, there was once a well-known cemetery in the capital: the Cimetière des Innocents (or Saint Innocents' Cemetery). Discover its fascinating history and the few remaining vestiges.

Paris 2024: the Colline d'Elancourt (78), Olympic mountain bike venue and highest point in the region

At 231m, the Colline d'Élancourt is the highest point in the Ile-de-France region! Located in the Yvelines department, the track will be hosting the mountain bike cycling events during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.