Janvry, a picturesque village with a free wildlife park and events in the Chevreuse Valley

Does the village of Janvry ring a bell? Perhaps you remember when it took part in the Village Préféré des Français when it represented the Ile-de-France region in 2018? In any case, behind Janvry 's charm lies a rich history that dates back to the 12th century, with the hamlets that sprang up after the Norman invasions. Over the centuries, Janvry endured the devastation of the Hundred Years' War, became the domain of the Parisian bourgeoisie and retained its agricultural tradition. This village with the gentle, evocative name of "Janus's domain" has thus weathered the ages with resilience.

For heritage lovers, don't miss :

• Eglise Notre-Dame du Mont-Carmel: A witness to the 13th century, with its Louis XIII-style high altar and altarpiece.
• Château de Janvry: The Château de Janvry is a private estate open to hire for private or business seminars or events.
• Jean de Baillon's tombstone: A reminder of the Baillon family's influence in Janvry.
• Monsieur Joseph's forge: A trace of the village's blacksmith past.
• Maison "La chanson": Former residence of artists such as Coco Chanel.
• Halle de chargement ferme de l'église: Evidence of past agricultural trade.
• Painter Garo's studio: The cultural center where the works of pointillist painter Garo are exhibited.
  

• To be read
• Top 23 most beautiful villages and walks near Paris, our favorites
• 8 superb medieval villages to discover around Paris
• A guide to zoos, aquariums and menageries in and around Paris

But the real jewel in Janvry's crown is its free animal park and entertainment. There's a medieval festival in summer, a sandy beach, a Christmas market and even a ski slope in winter.

Located in the heart of the village of Janvry, the Parc Animalier stretches over 6 hectares of lush greenery. Over time, it has become an oasis for a diverse range of wildlife and a place of escape for all its visitors. It's an invitation to reconnect with nature, where you can discover a multitude of animals in a peaceful setting.

Location and access

Located along the rue du bois de Montmarre in Janvry (91640), access to the park is free of charge from 8am to 8pm, all year round. For those arriving by car, parking spaces are available along the wooded area.

Animal Diversity

The richness of the park lies in the wide variety of species that have found refuge here, including :

• Camels: These majestic desert animals roam peacefully, impressing visitors with their imposing stature.
• Geese: These graceful aquatic birds add a soothing soundscape with their gentle chirps.
• Goats and Biquettes: These sociable, inquisitive animals are always ready to meet visitors, especially young ones.
• Llamas: Native to the Andes, these exotic creatures add a touch of strangeness and curiosity to the park.
• Vietnamese pigs: Small and charismatic, they're a pleasure to watch.
• Donkeys: With their gentle chatter and peaceful characters, they're a family favorite.
• Fallow deer: These elegant cervids are particularly beautiful to see as they stroll through the park's green expanses.
• White Wallabies: These marsupials, cousins of the kangaroos, are a rarity and captivate the eye with their beauty and grace.
  

The park is equipped with a children's playground and picnic tables. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food, but are asked to keep the area clean. It is important to note that the animals are fed by professional caretakers, so it is strictly forbidden to feed them.

In summer, Janvry isn't just a typical Hurepoix village, it's also an exotic destination thanks to"Janvry Plage". For 19 years now, long before the emergence of the "Paris plage" concept, Janvry has been innovating by transforming part of its area into a veritable summer paradise, an oasis of happiness in the middle of the countryside.

Imagine an area covered in 190 tons of fine sand, adorned with coconut palms and palm trees, where deckchairs invite you to relax under the radiant sun. Tables to share a meal or play ping-pong, a bar to enjoy refreshments, all accompanied by soft music that lulls the atmosphere. And the centerpiece of this transformation: a huge inflatable swimming pool to keep young and old cool.

Present in July and August, this supervised bathing area with its beach bar is open to all, and is available on subscription to the association for 5€ for the season, which is as much as a mouthful of bread to have fun all summer long.

Janvry's unique charm lies in its authenticity. Without pretension or artifice, the village exudes a warm, friendly atmosphere. For lovers of nature and culture, but also for families in search of good deals, Janvry is undoubtedly the place to visit. We highly recommend this authentic discovery, full of surprises. A real treat to share!