Pedalo on a lake in summer / A girl in a sailboat

Watersports in Paris Region

Some people are more at ease in the water, others prefer the thrilling sensation of gliding across it. In Paris Region, the watersports centres offer a host of activities that involve oars, sails or just drifting along where you please.
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Choose your next watersport

Watersports in Paris Region

Water is the source of life, but it also offers a terrific way to have fun and unwind. In a boat, canoe or pedalo, water takes us to explore the wilderness along the banks. It keeps the children amused, it challenges athletes, and inspires artists. Among the host of activities available, watersports are enjoyed by many people from the local area.

Paris Region, a land dotted with watersports venues

Famous for its cultural and historical wealth, the region of Île de France also boasts some hidden aquatic gems that deserve to be better known. Paris Region extends beyond the capital itself and includes various watersports venues where a whole host of activities are available. Forget swimming pools and footbaths, because nature beckons you. Whether you’re into sailing, passionate about waterskiing or just looking for a place to relax by the water, Paris Region has just what you’re looking for and it’s only a splash away.

Loops of the river Seine

The symbol of Paris and a vital waterway of Île-de-France, the river Seine also offers an enchanting setting for watersports fans. Fancy a trip on the river? A kayak or canoe adventure is a much better way to explore than just a boat trip and will give you a sense of wellbeing. On the outskirts of Paris, the Seine reveals its wilder side.

Fun fact: Did you know that the river Seine should have had a different name? Strictly speaking, according to the rules of hydrography, it should have been named the river Yonne. When two waterways meet, the resulting river takes the name of the one with the highest flow. This is the case of the Yonne which meets the Seine at Montereau-Fault-Yonne, in the department of Seine-et-Marne. Or should we say Yonne-et-Marne?

River Marne, the Seine’s little twin

It may be outshone by the Seine, but the river Marne makes a vital contribution to Paris Region’s wealth of watersports venues. Its picturesque banks are an invitation to peacefully explore. Take advantage of the tranquillity of this river to unwind with watersports like canoeing and paddleboarding, as you soak up the natural beauty of Île-de-France.

Lakes and facilities in Île-de-France

The lakes and facilities scattered across Paris Region offer a haven of peace to nature lovers and watersports fans. The lakes of Enghien-les-Bains, Vaires-sur-Marne and Saint-Quentin are just a few examples of these recreational venues where you can enjoy your favourite watersport. Alternatively, you can just take a dip in the calm waters, a far cry from the rough waves on the Atlantic coast.

Water parks in Paris Region

For the ultimate in family fun, visit the water parks of Paris Region. These parks are designed for making everlasting memories. Some offer a chance to learn to skipper an inflatable boat, others have enormous swimming pools and water slides, but they all keep the children entertained. For those who prefer sports to games, why not sign up at a sailing club or rowing club? That’s right, our water parks appeal to fans of these activities as well.

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  • Copyright images: © DR, © DR