Parc de la Tete d'Or

Styled after the charm of an English garden, Le Parc de la Tête d’Or in France is the country's largest urban park. It's a haven for families, offering a delightful mix of attractions: a zoo, a serene boating lake, lush botanical gardens, a miniature railway, and pony rides for the little ones. It's a fantastic spot to unwind and soak up the natural beauty. The park is crisscrossed with trails perfect for walking, jogging, or bicycling, and there are vast open areas ideal for games and picnics.

Le Parc de la Tête d’Or was brought to life in 1857 by the genius of brothers Denis and Eugène Buhler. Interestingly enough, it was created in the same year as New York's iconic Central Park. Since then, the park has evolved with fascinating additions: in 1865, majestic glass houses were introduced, showcasing plant and flower species from across the globe. The 1960s saw the birth of the rose gardens, home to 30,000 rose bushes of 350 diverse varieties. There's a charming legend behind the park's name, suggesting that treasure with the "head of Christ" might be buried somewhere within its grounds.

The park houses France's second public zoo, following the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes in Paris. Home to nearly 400 animals across 64 species, the zoo has undergone significant upgrades over the last decade. In 2006, the African Savannah exhibit was unveiled, featuring zebras, giraffes, and pink flamingos. The zoo is a proud member of EAZA, the European Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and is committed to the conservation of species on the brink of extinction. While you're there, don't miss the opportunity to learn about the zoo's efforts in wildlife preservation and their exciting educational programs.