© Hippolyte Romain

he Jardin d'Acclimatation zoological gardens in the Bois de Boulogne is once again offering two months of beachside fun and games for Parisians and tourists, following the success of last year's Jardin-Plage initiative, which attracted over 300,000 visitors.

Jardin-Plage ("beach in the gardens") is a vast summertime playground that brings all the fun and pleasure of the beach right to the heart of the city.

Visitors can sun themselves in deckchairs set out on the teak beach, where changing tents are also provided, while their children have fun in the sandboxes or splash around in the play fountains.

There are plenty of ways to cool off and have fun in the refreshing water sprays, paddling pool, giant flower-fountain and – a new feature this year – the crazy water cannon.

Kids are spoiled for choice when it comes to the play areas available. Budding sailors will love clambering aboard the giant play ship, while the mini-trampoline will appeal to the more sports minded.

Together with swings, a giant rope spider web and numerous table-tennis tables, there really is something for everyone at the park. So come along with your bucket and spade and join in the fun building sandcastles in the city!

Jardin-Plage is the ideal place for getting away from it all during the hot summer months. Meet up with family or friends for a picnic, play games on the grass or just relax under the shade of the age-old tress around the zoological gardens.

Open every day from 10am to 7pm until the end of August
Jardin d'Acclimatation, Bois de Boulogne (XVIth arrondissement)
Sablons Metro station
Prices: €2.70 (reduced rate: €1.35)
Tel : 01 40 67 90 82
www.jardindacclimatation.fr

(Published on July 22, 2009)