Just a short distance from the bustling heart of Paris lies a serene escape into nature: Parc de la Haute-Île, or as it is known locally, Parc départemental de la Haute-Île. This urban oasis, located in Noisy-le-Grand, spans an impressive 65 hectares and offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, rich history, and abundant wildlife. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Parc de la Haute-Île has something to offer.
Parc de la Haute-Île is a testament to the beauty of wetland ecosystems. Nestled along the banks of the Marne River, this park recreates the natural landscapes of alluvial zones, providing a sanctuary for a diverse array of flora and fauna. The park's design takes full advantage of the flood-prone terrain, allowing the Marne to shape its wetlands, creating a dynamic and ever-changing environment.
Opened to the public in February 2008, the park's initial 25 hectares quickly became a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. One of the park's standout features is its six wooden observation huts, strategically placed to offer discreet views of the park's avian residents. These huts are equipped with front or side openings, allowing visitors to observe birds without disturbing them, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
The history of Parc de la Haute-Île is as fascinating as its natural beauty. The site was originally left fallow in the late 1970s by the Ville-Évrard hospital, situated in a floodplain loop of the Marne. After three years of careful planning and development, the park was partially opened to the public on February 25, 2008. A complete circuit path, known as the Chemin de la Marne, was introduced two years later, allowing visitors to fully explore the park's diverse landscapes. In 2011, on select days, the Chemin de la friche, a path that traverses the central fallow area, was also made accessible to the public.
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Designated as a Natura 2000 site, Parc de la Haute-Île is a critical habitat for a wide variety of bird species. Since its inception, nearly 140 bird species have been recorded here, with around fifty of them nesting within the park. Among the notable waterbirds are the Great Crested Grebe, Little Grebe, Mute Swan, and occasionally the Little Ringed Plover and Common Tern. More common species include the Eurasian Coot, Common Moorhen, and Mallard.
The park's central fallow area and the edges of the channels provide nesting grounds for several species of warblers, reed warblers, and hippolais. In winter, visitors can spot Black-headed Gulls, Eurasian Coots, Grey Herons, and Great Cormorants. The end of summer often brings sightings of the Kingfisher, which breeds outside the park but visits frequently.
These avian wonders can be observed from the park's six observation huts, offering an unparalleled birdwatching experience.
Parc de la Haute-Île is not just a natural wonderland; it is also an archaeological treasure trove. Excavations have unearthed traces of human habitation dating back to the Neolithic and Mesolithic periods, including the oldest human burial in the department, dating to 6500 BC. To bring this rich history to life, the park features an archaeosite, an area managed by the departmental archaeology service. Here, visitors can explore reconstructed Neolithic dwellings and participate in interactive workshops and thematic activities designed to make archaeology accessible and engaging.
The development of Parc de la Haute-Île was a significant investment in both natural conservation and public recreation. Funded by the Seine-Saint-Denis department, the Île-de-France region, and the Seine-Normandie Water Agency, the project cost an estimated 11.7 million euros. This substantial investment underscores the importance of preserving natural habitats while providing the public with a space to connect with nature and history.
In conclusion, Parc de la Haute-Île is a remarkable destination that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and ecological diversity. Whether you're exploring its lush wetlands, observing its diverse birdlife, or delving into its ancient past, the park provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life. A visit to Parc de la Haute-Île is not just a journey through nature but a journey through time, making it an unmissable destination for anyone visiting Noisy-le-Grand and the greater Paris region.
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