Paris-Plages

The Paris-Plages (Paris Beaches) are artificial beaches created each summer on the banks of the river Seine in the centre of Paris. They are opened to the public throughout the months of July and August. The programme was initiated in 2002 by Bertrand Delanoë, the Socialist Party mayor, who wanted to create the haven for people that are forced to stay in the sweltering city of Paris in the summer. At first a single beach on the Rive Droite was create, and in 2006 a second beach was added on the Rive Gauche. The beaches feature many attractions such as a swimming pool, a concert stage, roller-blading, tai-chi, wall climbing, boules etc. The beaches also offer refreshment areas, play areas and deckchairs.

Although it is forbidden to swim in the Seine or sunbathe topless on the river's banks, the Paris-Plages has proven a great success, attracting over four million people in 2007.