No need to leave Île-de-France to find yourself immersed in breathtaking natural scenery. In Châtenay-Malabry, within the Hauts-de-Seine (92), the Vallée-aux-Loups Forest Estate Arboretum extends over a tranquil 12.5 hectares of greenery, just about fifteen kilometers from Paris. Themed gardens, ponds, suspension bridges, a bonsai greenhouse... this free park offers plenty of surprises for those willing to take the time to explore it.
This estate has a much richer history than it might seem at first glance. In the 19th century, landscape architect Édouard André already described it as Paris's "promised land of horticulture." Originally designed as a classic French formal garden, the property evolved over the decades into an English garden, reflecting the landscape tastes of the time. It wasn't until 1890 that the Croux Nurseries established themselves here, using the park as a lush showcase for their clientele. By the early 20th century, these nurseries were recognized as the largest in France, and it was during this period that most of the century-old trees still enjoyed today were planted—an invaluable vegetal heritage.
Since the 1990s, the Hauts-de-Seine Departmental Council has been celebrating this historic core by creating themed gardens that highlight its horticultural heritage: orchards of fruit trees, chestnuts, alders, and vibrant autumnal gardens... These lush botanical scenes unfold as you stroll, making this spot one of the most beautiful walks in the Île-de-France region.
Among the 500 plant species documented in the park, the highlight remains undoubtedly the Weeping Blue Cypress of the Atlas, which has been designated a National Remarkable Tree. At 150 years old, it spreads its branches over nearly 700 square meters, with bluish-spined limbs gracefully dipping toward the ground and the neighboring pond. It's a nearly otherworldly sight, blending the essence of living sculpture with an impressionist painting. In some spots, Francis Ballu's subtle artistic touches blend seamlessly into the scene, supporting the tree and blurring the line between nature and creative expression.
Just nearby, a massive giant sequoia stretches 33 meters toward the sky. When you look up, you search for the treetop but can barely see it — that’s part of the charm of this place. The Arboretum is home to a national collection of Convolvulaceae, entrusted to us by botanist Patrick Blanc and recognized since 1999 by the Conservatory of Specialized Plant Collections. This rare botanical specialty grants the site a true scientific status: it’s officially listed in the national register of sites of artistic, historical, scientific, legendary, and picturesque significance. In 2013, the Department also acquired 66 bonsais from the collection of French expert Rémy Samson, now displayed in a dedicated greenhouse that’s definitely worth a visit.
The Departmental Valley of the Wolves is freely accessible at 102 Chateaubriand Street in Châtenay-Malabry. Opening hours vary by season: from November to February, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; in March and October, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and from April to September, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Note that bikes and dogs are not allowed inside the Arboretum grounds. For lovers of remarkable gardens in Île-de-France, this is a must-visit spot that should be on your list. And since you're in the area, the House of Chateaubriand, also part of the estate, is well worth a visit.
Our opinion: A calming stroll filled with botanical and historical treasures, perfect for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and families alike. Explore with wide eyes, and leave eager to return every season for more discoveries.
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Dates and Opening Time
Next days
Sunday:
from 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Monday:
from 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Tuesday:
from 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Wednesday:
from 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Thursday:
from 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Friday:
from 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Saturday:
from 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Location
Parc de la vallée aux loups
Parc De La Vallée Aux Loups
92290 Chatenay Malabry
Prices
Free
Official website
vallee-aux-loups.hauts-de-seine.fr
