The Marais on a Sunny Afternoon

Bonjour from Le Marais

Le Marais has a number of public parks and gardens springtime visitors shouldn't miss. Our favorite « jardin du marais » is Place des Vosges. It is an absolute square, surrounded by perfectly symmetrical brick and stone mansion houses sitting atop a colonnaded walkway. Under the arches are some of Paris' chicest restaurants and tea houses such as Carette, Dammann Frères, La Place Royale, L' Ambroisie, where President Obama recently had dinner and the famous Pavillon de La Reine, the most prestigious Marais hotel you can book with with an unbeatable offer, only with parismarais.com :

Book now

Planted with well-pruned square-shaped trees, there are patches of lawns opened for sunbathers and children playgrounds with sandboxes, and the harmony of the scene is enchanting. A hidden door links to the beautiful Hotel de Sully garden worth, where you' ll find the best bookshop dedicated to Paris architecture.

Do not miss the Musée Carnavalet at 16, rue des Francs Bourgeois. The museum is dedicated to the History of Paris and is probably the first one you should visit to discover how the city grew up throughout the ages. The Carnavalet museum is formed of two 17th-century mansions around a perfect example of a formal « jardin à la Française ». It is designed to reflect the time of Madame de Sevigné, who lived there for several years.

Do not miss also the adorable « Square du Temple » in the booming Haut Marais (the third district). The true secret gardens of Le Marais lie behind the massive doors of the "Hôtels Particuliers" that the average visitor doesn't venture into. Don't be afraid to have a peek. Very often, the digitcode allows entry during the daytime and you will discover quiet cobblestone courtyards and lovely gardens. Those who live in these private mansions overlooking such serenity cannot help but to truly love living in Le Marais!

The following photographies were taken this week on a sunny afternoon by Vadim David, our new talented photographer and community manager. Vadim has several passions in life including cats, cars, architecture and photography. He speaks fluently English, French and Russian.

Enjoy his vision of Le Marais beautiful gardens and architecture !

Pascal Fonquernie
Chief Editor PARISMARAIS.COM