An Unforgettable Eco-Chic Parisian Staycation: Exploring the Vibrant 12th Arrondissement

Our recent adventure into the heart of Paris led us to a delightful eco-friendly staycation in the charming 12th arrondissement. In collaboration with the wonderful Hotel de la Porte Dorée, we immersed ourselves in the local culture, sustainable practices, and unique attractions of this often-overlooked district. Far from the typical tourist trails, the 12th arrondissement offers an authentic Parisian experience, combining urban vibrancy with serene green spaces. Join us as we recount our journey through bustling markets, tranquil lakes, historic sites, and unforgettable culinary discoveries.

A Taste of Local Life: The Vibrant Parisian Market

Stepping out from the welcoming doors of the Hotel de la Porte Dorée, our senses were immediately captivated by the lively atmosphere of the local market, conveniently located right in front of the hotel. This wasn’t just any market; it was a kaleidoscope of colors, aromas, and sounds that truly define Parisian life. Stall after stall showcased an abundance of gorgeous, fresh fruits and vegetables, many proudly labeled as organic. It was a true feast for the eyes, offering a glimpse into the healthy, seasonal eating habits deeply ingrained in French culture.

Among the vibrant produce, a beautiful flower stand caught our attention. Adorned with a stunning array of blossoms, it was impossible to resist pausing to admire the delicate petals and rich fragrances. White roses, in particular, always hold a special place in our hearts. What are your favorite flowers? This market wasn’t just a place to shop; it was a community hub, a social gathering point where locals exchanged pleasantries and selected the freshest ingredients for their daily meals. The commitment to organic and locally sourced produce aligns perfectly with our eco-friendly travel philosophy, making this market a perfect start to our Parisian exploration.

Thank you to the Hotel de la Porte Dorée for sponsoring this post. All opinions are our own. Affiliate links included.

Chalet des Iles Daumesnil: A Romantic Lakeside Lunch

After our delightful foray into the market, we decided to fully embrace the tranquility of the 12th arrondissement by strolling further into the expansive Bois de Vincennes. Our initial plan for a relaxing and romantic lunch à deux was open-ended, but as we explored the verdant pathways and stumbled upon the enchanting Chalet des Iles Daumesnil, we instantly knew we had found our perfect spot. Nestled gracefully on an island in the middle of Lac Daumesnil, accessible by a charming small bridge or even a rowboat, the restaurant offered a breathtaking setting.

Our lunch here was nothing short of splendid. We savored a trio of delectable dishes: accras, a classic beef tartare, and a flavorful grilled salmon bobun. The accras, typically a Creole fritter often made with cod, presented a delightful surprise – they were filled with succulent crabmeat! This unexpected twist made them taste wonderfully similar to crabcakes, a dish I’ve genuinely missed since moving from the US to Paris 15 years ago. The joy of this culinary rediscovery was immense; yes, food truly can excite me that much!

Hugo, a connoisseur of beef tartare, frequently orders it when we dine out, and he declared this rendition to be one of the finest he’d tasted in Paris. Its fresh preparation and perfect seasoning clearly left a lasting impression. My grilled salmon bobun was equally satisfying – a generous portion of perfectly cooked salmon nestled amongst delicious, crisp vegetables and vermicelli noodles, offering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Each dish was a testament to the restaurant’s quality and the vibrant Parisian culinary scene.

To complete our idyllic lunch, we enjoyed everything with a chilled glass of rosé, perfectly complementing the meal and the serene lakeside ambiance. It was a truly delightful culinary interlude, perfectly blending gourmet flavors with the natural beauty of the Bois de Vincennes.

The Verdant Oasis: Bois de Vincennes and Daumesnil Lake

One of the true advantages of basing our Parisian staycation in the 12th arrondissement is its unique position, offering an escape from the relentless tourist crowds while still being incredibly well-connected. While every corner of Paris holds its own charm and countless experiences, the 12th offers a refreshing, authentic local vibe. Our choice of the Hotel de la Porte Dorée proved perfect, as it is just a stone’s throw from the magnificent Bois de Vincennes and the picturesque Daumesnil Lake.

The Bois de Vincennes, once a royal hunting ground, is Paris’s largest public park, offering an incredible expanse of green space and tranquility. It feels like a genuine forest within the city, a place where you can truly disconnect and breathe. Wandering along its tree-lined paths, listening to the birdsong, and admiring the reflections on Daumesnil Lake, one can easily forget the urban bustle just beyond. This expansive park is a haven for cyclists, joggers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat. We loved the opportunity to simply stroll, taking in the fresh air and the natural beauty. You can rent a rowboat on the lake for an even more romantic experience, gliding past the lush islands and enjoying the quietude. This proximity to such a significant green lung for Paris perfectly aligns with the eco-chic ethos of our staycation, emphasizing natural beauty and responsible enjoyment.

A Journey Through Time at the Porte Dorée Aquarium

One of the most enriching aspects of travel is the opportunity to embrace new experiences, to dedicate quality time to loved ones, and to consciously slow down, simply enjoying an activity for the pure fun of it. As part of our commitment to making the most of our time in the 12th arrondissement, we sought out unique, enjoyable activities that promised both relaxation and discovery. It was a delightful surprise to realize that the Aquarium de la Porte Dorée was literally just steps away from our base at the Hotel de la Porte Dorée, making it an irresistible option for an afternoon of exploration.

We wholeheartedly recommend dedicating a couple of hours to visit this unique Parisian landmark. Housed within the impressive Palais de la Porte Dorée, an Art Deco masterpiece originally built for the 1931 Colonial Exhibition, the aquarium is a fascinating step back in time. It’s a truly fun and educational experience, whether you’re a family with curious kids or a couple simply wanting to admire a stunning array of fish in a historically rich setting. The space itself is incredibly unique, as the aquarium dates back to 1931 and has been remarkably preserved, retaining much of its original charm and layout. Unlike many modern aquariums, the Porte Dorée offers an old-fashioned elegance with its beautifully tiled walls and classic tanks. This historical context, combined with the mesmerizing aquatic life, makes it a truly special and worthwhile detour from your Parisian itinerary.

A Romantic Dinner at a Local Gem: Chez Ma Belle Mère

As evening descended, our Parisian exploration continued with a romantic dinner at Chez Ma Belle Mère, another delightful local spot in the 12th arrondissement. From the moment we stepped inside, the ambiance enveloped us in a cozy and uniquely fun atmosphere. The restaurant itself is a testament to the charming quirks of French culture, with its theme revolving around the stereotypical, often-joked-about, “difficult French mother-in-law.”

The decor was adorned with witty caricatures of an imaginary, judgmental mother-in-law, accompanied by humorous, critical phrases she might utter, playfully scrawled across the walls. This light-hearted, silly concept sparked many laughs throughout our meal, adding a memorable layer of entertainment to our dining experience. (As a personal note, I must add that I am fortunate to have the most wonderful mother-in-law, whom I adore, so I couldn’t personally relate to the jokes, but I certainly appreciated the humor!). Beyond the witty decor, the food was absolutely delicious – a true highlight of our evening. Chez Ma Belle Mère offered a taste of authentic French home cooking, prepared with care and served in generous portions. It was the perfect blend of delectable cuisine and engaging atmosphere, solidifying its place as a cherished memory from our staycation.

An Evening Stroll and Gelato in the Historic Place des Vosges

Although the magnificent Place des Vosges isn’t directly adjacent to the Hotel de la Porte Dorée, we decided that a romantic post-dinner stroll followed by a delicious gelato in the Marais district was the perfect way to cap off our day. A quick 15-minute metro ride transported us effortlessly from the tranquil 12th arrondissement to the historical heart of Paris.

The Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris, is simply breathtaking. Its symmetrical red-brick and stone facades, elegant arcades, and central park create an atmosphere of timeless beauty and serene romance. It’s a place where history whispers from every corner, and every archway seems to invite quiet contemplation. Strolling hand-in-hand through its arcades, we felt transported to a bygone era. To sweeten our walk, we indulged in gelato from Amorino. This summer, we’ve fallen in love with their exquisite range of organic flavors, especially our absolute favorites: the creamy yogurt and the zesty Sicilian lemon. Each flower-shaped scoop was a little piece of art, perfectly capping off our evening with a burst of fresh, delightful flavor. It was a beautiful reminder that even in a city as grand as Paris, sometimes the simplest pleasures, like a romantic walk and a gourmet ice cream, create the most lasting memories.

Back to Our Eco-Chic Home Away From Home: The Hotel de la Porte Dorée

After a day filled with explorations, culinary delights, and moments of genuine connection, there’s nothing quite like returning to a comfortable and welcoming retreat. The Hotel de la Porte Dorée truly excelled as our gorgeous home away from home. Its charming ambiance, thoughtful amenities, and commitment to providing a tranquil environment made it the perfect sanctuary. The moment we stepped back into our room, we were eager to change into our comfy robes, shed the day’s walking shoes, and finally put our feet up, reflecting on the wonderful memories we had made.

The Hotel de la Porte Dorée not only offers comfort and convenience but also aligns beautifully with an eco-conscious travel ethos, making it an ideal choice for a sustainable Parisian staycation. Its location, close to the Bois de Vincennes and the local market, encourages guests to explore naturally and support local businesses, minimizing their environmental footprint. Our stay here was more than just a place to sleep; it was an integral part of our eco-chic experience, providing a serene base from which to discover the authentic heart of Paris’s 12th arrondissement.

Ready for Your Own Parisian Adventure?

Embark on your own unforgettable journey through the vibrant 12th arrondissement and experience the perfect blend of Parisian charm and eco-conscious living.

Book your stay at the Hotel de la Porte Dorée today!

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The places mentioned in this post:

• The Hotel de la Porte Dorée: 273, Avenue Daumesnil, 75012 Paris | Tel. 01.43.07.56.97
• Chalet des Iles Daumesnil: Ile de Reuilly, Bois de Vincennes, 75012 Paris | Tel. 01.43.07.00.10
• Chez Ma Belle Mère: 257, Avenue Daumesnil, 75012 Paris | Tel. 01.43.44.38.21
• Amorino, Place des Vosges: 1, rue des Francs Bourgeois, 75004 Paris | Tel. 09.80.55.73.90
• Aquarium de la Porte Dorée (Musée de l’histoire de l’immigration): 293 Avenue Daumesnil, 75012 Paris

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