The Île aux Cygnes (“Isle of Swans”) is a small island located on the Seine river between the 15th and 16th arrondissements in Paris. The island is 890-meter long and only 11-meter large. It is the only island on the Seine river that is completely artificial.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Île aux Cygnes is certainly one of the most unusual and off-the-beaten-path places to stroll in Paris. The Île aux Cygnes is very well maintained and possesses many different species of trees. The island is open 24/7.
Little History
The Ports of Paris wanted to facilitate the movements of the boats inside the capital. An artificial dam was constructed in 1825; it was initially a dike built as a component of the fluvial port of Grenelle. In 1827, the Île aux Cygnes was strengthened to serve as a warehouse. Trees were planted on the island in 1830 and it was then called “the Swan Island” in tribute to the Swan island of the Sun King (the former “Île Maquerelle” that was attached to the Champs de Mars on the Seine river).
In 1900, during the Olympic Games, the island became a popular swimming spot. Water Polo matches were held there until the 1930s.
After the collapse of the former Grenelle bridge, a new bridge was rebuilt in 1873. In 1878, it was eventually decided to transform the island into a promenade.
What to see? What to do?
The replica of the Statue of Liberty
Achieved in 1887, the 11.5-meter high replica of the Statue of Liberty was installed on the island in 1889, 3 years after the installation of the Statue of Liberty in New-York. The replica is way smaller than the original statue located in New York (which is 46,50 meters) but the small statue is still worth seeing.
Note that you’ll have the best view of the Statue of Liberty from the Mirabeau bridge. You can also see the statue up close on the island.
The Bir-Hakeim bridge (Pont de Bir-Hakeim)
One of the most famous bridges in Paris is incontestably the bridge ‘Bir-Hakeim’ (particularly since the movie ‘Inception’). The architecture of the bridge, made of steel, is particularly stunning. It is surely one of the most unique (and beautiful) bridges in Paris.
The Path of Swans
Since 1878, visitors can walk on the “Path of Swans” promenade (‘Allée des Cygnes’ in French). The walkway runs the whole length of the island. Bordered by a row of trees, the Île aux Cygnes is a very agreeable and peaceful place for a walk, jogging or simply resting. You will also get a great view on the Eiffel Tower. The access to the small island is possible via two bridges, Pont de Bir-Hakeim and Pont de Grenelle.
Our opinion
It is one of the best kept local secrets in Paris. Totally off-the-beaten-path, it’s a great place to slow things down a bit. The replica of the Statue of Liberty is pretty cool to see. The views from the bridge ‘Pont Bir-Hakeim’ are awesome (particularly the view on the Eiffel Tower).
Book your best Parisian experience now
L’Ile aux Cygnes
Where? Between the bridge Bir Hakeim (Pont de Bir-Hakeim) and the bridge Grenelle (Pont de Grenelle), on the Seine river between the 15th and 16th arrondissements.
When? Everyday 24/7.
Access? Bir Hakeim station (Metro Line 6) or Passy station (Metro Line 6).
You visited this place? Share your pic on Instagram, mention @paris_kathmandu & tag #paris_kathmandu