The Parc de la Tête d’Or is a large public park located in the 6th arrondissement of Lyon, France. It is one of the largest urban parks in France, covering over 117 hectares. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and offers a variety of attractions and activities.
History
The park was created in the late 19th century, and is named after the golden head of the statue of the Virgin Mary that was located in the center of the park. The statue was removed in the 1950s, and the park was renovated in the 1960s and 70s to create the lush green space that exists today.
Attractions
The park is full of attractions and activities for all ages. There is a lake, where visitors can rent boats, a botanical garden, a zoo, and a children’s playground. The park also has numerous walking and biking paths, as well as several cafes and restaurants. In the summer, the park hosts outdoor concerts and events.
The Zoo
The park is home to the Lyon Zoological Park, which is one of the oldest in France. It is home to over 600 animals from all over the world, including lions, tigers, elephants, and giraffes. The zoo also has an aquarium, where visitors can observe a variety of marine life.
The Botanical Garden
The Parc de la Tête d’Or is also home to the Lyon Botanical Garden, which was established in 1857. The garden is home to over 7,000 species of plants, and is divided into several different sections, including a rose garden, an alpine garden, and a tropical greenhouse. The garden is open to the public and offers a variety of educational programs and activities.
Things to Do
In addition to the attractions mentioned above, the Parc de la Tête d’Or offers a variety of activities for visitors. These include:
- Boat rides on the lake
- Picnicking
- Cycling and rollerblading
- Bird watching
- Mini golf
Getting There
The park is easily accessible by public transportation, as it is located near the Part-Dieu train station. It is also accessible by car, and there is ample parking in the area. The park is open year-round and is free to enter.
The Parc de la Tête d’Or is a beautiful and vibrant park, and a must-see for any visitor to Lyon. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an exciting adventure, the park has something for everyone.