Sssshhhhh…..this is my most favourite spot in Paris. Frequented largely by Parisians, I don’t want it over-run with tourists. So if you promise to keep this address to yourself, I’ll tell you about it.
It’s called the garden of the Royal Palace – le jardin du Palais Royal – and it’s a sublime sheltered retreat tucked behind a courtyard near the Louvre. The long, rectangular garden is hemmed in by elegant arcades that border its perimeter. Exclusive boutiques are to be found in 18th-century shopping galleries. As well as two or three restaurants. And other treats.
I love the faded grandeur of the buildings. The author, Colette, lived in one of these upper apartments overlooking the garden.
You could easily spend half a day here. There’s a beautiful fountain in the middle. Tree-lined allées that provide shade.
There are little squares of rose garden in which to sit to read a book, contemplate life, people-watch, write your memoir.
Where young princes once strolled, local boys today play soccer.
And at the far end, near the entrance, is an inner courtyard containing the controversial columns designed by artist, Daniel Buren.
I like the irreverent interplay between modern and classical.
I love the jardin du Palais Royal. It’s French, it’s fabulous, it’s forever. Pour toujours.
We went there on a recent trip to Paris after you wrote about it when writing about the passages of Paris. It is magical. Thank you.
There’s another Paris park that I also love – the parc Monceau in the 8th arrondissement. A completely different character, but charming.
Such a special place! I haven’t been to Paris in years, but this makes me want to go back right now…
And what is especially nice is that during the month of August, it’s practically empty! A l’occasion que vous venez à Paris, je serais ravie de voir vos photos de l’endroit. Thanks for writing.
Absolutely beautiful and as I remember it. Thanks! :)
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