Delightful Garden Rail Trail through eastern Paris
4.5
4.5
Date of visit: June 2017
I am a carer or friend of a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Excellent
The former railway line to Vincennes was transformed in the 1990s into a linear garden and walkway which stretches for 4.7km from a start near the Place de la Bastille in the heart of the city to the Square Charles Péguy. Much of the traIl is elevated and offers fine views of this part of Paris, and most of the route is wheelchair accessible. The sections that have been turned into a linear garden are beautifully planted. The eastern part of the traIl is shared with cyclists. There are a couple of road crossings but these presented no difficulties. There are two lifts to enable wheelchair users to access different sections of the trail. The start at the Place de la Bastille end is not wheelchair accessible, but the short wheel/walk along the Avenue Daumesnil past the workshops and studios of thr Viaduc des Arts is very interesting. Turn left into Rue Hector Malot and you will find the first/last lift access to the trail.
Disabled Access In and Around
Good
Access at the eastern end of the trail is by gently sloping ramp. It is also possible to join or leave the trail at the Jardin de Reuilly and there are two places in the western section of the trail wher lift access is available.
Parking & Transport
Good
The Place de la Bastille is well served by buses, which are wheelchair accessible. The eastern end of the trail is close to the stop called Montempoivre on tram line 3a, which starts at Porte de Vincennes. Paris trams are fully wheelchair accessible. The Metro, with the exception of Line 14 v is not.
Accessible Toilets
Good
We encountered one accessible toilet. It was spacious and well-equipped with grab rails and accessible wash basin. There was room for side transfer, but the toilet had no alarm system.
Staff
Excellent
Not really applicable, except that whoever does the gardening does a brilliant job.
Additional Information
Don't attempt the brudge which takes the trail across the Jardin de ReuIlly - it's too steep! There's a path that runs round the southern end of the Jardin, with lovely views, and which connects with the trail at both ends.
