Paris Plages 2013 will welcome all sun worshippers, water sports enthusiasts, deckchair snoozers and sand castle builders to take their pleasure by the Seine. If Paris is not the first holiday destination that springs to mind if you're looking for a seaside style holiday, Paris Plages (Paris Beaches) will make you think again. Every year for just over a month, key locations on the banks of the Seine are redesigned as beaches, with more sand, sun loungers, entertainment and sport than you can shake a beach umbrella at. At the Hotel du Danube you are just a half hour's walk away from this event which runs until 18th August.
Paris Plages 2013 : the sand banks of the Seine
Since 2002, the banks of the Seine have, with the aid of several thousand tons of sand shipped along the river, been transformed into beaches. Originally dreamed up by Paris mayor Bertrand Delanoe for the benefit of Parisians who were unable to get away on holiday, Paris Plages have also proved hugely popular with visiting tourists. So much so that the idea now encompasses three locations.
A pleasant stroll from the Hotel du Danube, across the Seine by way of the Ile de la Cite, where Notre Dame Cathedral is located, you will find all the fun of the seaside along a two mile stretch of the Right Bank. The area becomes pedestrianised and a host of amenities are on offer, including free concerts, various sporting activities, and vendors of homemade ice cream. Even mist areas are available to cool you down. Outside City Hall you can play beach volleyball or rugby, or just relax in front of a giant screen showing opera, dance and other musical delights.
Hotel du Danube is so convenient for Paris Plages 2013
Nestled at the heart of the renowned Saint Germain des Pres district on the Left Bank of the Seine, our sophisticated and elegant family-owned hotel is so handy for a day at the beach. The friendly Hotel du Danube staff will be happy to direct you.
Picture copyright holder : Tourist office Paris - Photographer Amélie Dupont