4.5The largest urban park in France, Le Parc de la Tete d'Or is influenced by the style of an English garden and features several activities for all ages, including a zoo, botanical gardens, miniature railway, boating lake, pony rides for children, and more. It's a great spot to unwind and enjoy the natural splendor, with dozens of trails for walking, jogging, or bicycling as well as big open spaces for activities and picnics.
Founded in 1857 by the brothers Eugène and Denis Buhler in the same year as New York's famous Central Park, Le Parc de la Tete d'Or has seen numerous additions since its inception, including the impressive glasshouses containing species of trees, plants, and flowers from all over the world in 1865 and the rose gardens featuring 30,000 rose shrubs comprising 350 different varieties in the 1960s. The park's name comes from a rumor that a treasure containing the head of Christ may be buried somewhere in the park.
The botanical gardens date back to 1796 when Poullain-Grandprey established them on the slopes of La Croix Rousse. The gardens were relocated to their current location in the park in 1857, and the glass houses were built in 1860, allowing for the introduction of tropical and subtropical plants and flowers. The gardens' principal objectives are teaching, conservation, and research.
After the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes in Paris, France's second public zoo features around 400 different animals grouped into 64 different types.
The zoo's infrastructure has improved over the last decade, with the new African Savannah including zebra, giraffes, and pink flamingos opening in 2006. The zoo is a member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EAZA) and is committed to the preservation of animals that are on the verge of extinction. The zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the winter and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the summer.
A: The park is open every day of the year from 6:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. However, some areas of the park may have different opening hours.
A: The park has several attractions including a large lake where visitors can rent boats, a zoo, a botanical garden, a rose garden, and several playgrounds. The park also has many walking and cycling paths.
A: No, entry to the park is free of charge. However, some of the attractions within the park may have an admission fee.
A: The park is located in the 6th arrondissement of Lyon and can be easily accessed by public transportation. There are several bus and metro lines that stop near the park. There are also several parking areas near the park for those who prefer to drive.
Duration RequiredPlace Général Leclerc, 69006, Lyon, France
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