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Parc Chico Mendes: Avignon's Green Escape

Escape to Avignon's largest park, a green oasis named after Chico Mendes, offering trails, playgrounds, a skate park, and a dog park for a refreshing retreat.

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Parc Chico Mendes, Avignon's largest public park, offers a refreshing escape with its six hectares of green space. Named after the Brazilian environmentalist, Francisco Alves Mendes Filho, the park features walking and jogging trails, a children's playground, a skate park, and a dedicated dog park. Visitors can enjoy fishing along the Canal de l'Hôpital, relax on the lawns, or participate in various activities and events held throughout the year. With its diverse offerings and tranquil atmosphere, Parc Chico Mendes provides a welcome retreat for families, friends, and nature enthusiasts alike, easily accessible from the city center via the scenic Chemin des Canaux.

A brief summary to Parc Chico Mendes

  • 160 All. du Clos de la Sacristie, Avignon, 84000, FR
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Take the Chemin des Canaux from the city center for a scenic and safe walk or bike ride to the park.
  • Check the city's event calendar for concerts, festivals, and other activities happening in the park.
  • Bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxing meal on the lawns or at one of the park's picnic tables.
  • Visit the Cani'Parc with your dog for a fun and safe off-leash experience.
  • Explore the Canal de l'Hôpital and try your hand at fishing (check local regulations).
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Avignon Centre train station, take bus line 09 or 14 towards 'Lycée René Char'. Get off at the 'Carpeaux' or 'Florence' stop, both are approximately a 6-minute walk to Parc Chico Mendes. A single bus fare is approximately €1.50.

  • Walking

    From the city center (e.g., Place de l'Horloge), follow the Chemin des Canaux, a dedicated greenway along the Canal de Vaucluse. This scenic route is approximately 3 km and takes around 40-50 minutes. The path is well-marked and offers a pleasant, car-free walk to the park.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Avignon Centre train station to Parc Chico Mendes will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic. The journey takes around 10-15 minutes.

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Discover more about Parc Chico Mendes

Parc Chico Mendes, a sprawling six-hectare oasis in Avignon, offers a verdant escape from the city's historical grandeur. Named in honor of Francisco Alves Mendes Filho, the Brazilian environmentalist and defender of Amazonian rubber tappers, the park stands as a symbol of environmental consciousness and community well-being. Located in the Pont des Deux Eaux quarter, just outside the ancient city walls, it serves as a 'green lung' for locals and a welcoming space for tourists seeking relaxation and recreation. The park's design caters to a wide range of interests and activities. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the dedicated fitness trail and jogging path, while families with children will appreciate the well-equipped playground and the popular ziplining course added in 2020. Teenagers often gather at the 'bowl,' a dynamic skate park where they can practice their skills and socialize. For those seeking tranquility, the park offers ample open spaces, lush lawns, and shaded groves of trees, perfect for picnics, reading, or simply unwinding. One of the park's defining features is the Canal de l'Hôpital, which meanders through the landscape, adding a touch of serenity and providing opportunities for fishing. The bocce-ball playing area, situated near a beautiful lane of centuries-old plane trees, is another popular spot for socializing and friendly competition. A dedicated dog park, known as Cani'Parc, provides a safe and enclosed space for dogs to run and play under the supervision of their owners. Parc Chico Mendes is more than just a green space; it's a vibrant hub for community events and activities. Throughout the year, the park hosts birthday parties, gatherings among friends, and various cultural events, including concerts, open-air cinema screenings, and family-friendly festivals. The city's 'Un Été à Avignon' program, held annually, transforms the park into a lively center for artistic, cultural, and sporting activities, offering something for all ages and interests. The park's commitment to accessibility and inclusivity is evident in its design and amenities. Tables and lounge chairs are strategically placed throughout the park, providing comfortable seating for visitors. The park is easily accessible from the city center via the Chemin des Canaux, a scenic greenway that follows the banks of the Canal de Vaucluse, making it a safe and enjoyable route for pedestrians and cyclists. The history of Parc Chico Mendes is intertwined with the city's commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement. The park's creation reflects a desire to provide residents with a natural space for recreation and relaxation, while its naming honors a figure who dedicated his life to protecting the environment and defending the rights of marginalized communities. The park's ongoing development, including the addition of new features and amenities through participatory budgeting initiatives, demonstrates the city's continued investment in its green spaces and its commitment to creating a vibrant and livable urban environment. Visiting Parc Chico Mendes offers a unique opportunity to experience a different side of Avignon, away from the bustling tourist attractions and historical landmarks. It's a place where locals and visitors can come together to enjoy the simple pleasures of nature, recreation, and community. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape, a fun-filled family outing, or a chance to connect with nature, Parc Chico Mendes provides a welcoming and enriching experience. While in Avignon, a visit to Parc Chico Mendes can be easily combined with other attractions. The park's location just outside the city walls makes it a convenient stop for those exploring the ramparts or taking a stroll along the Canal de Vaucluse. The nearby Barthelasse Island, accessible via a free river shuttle, offers additional opportunities for outdoor recreation and stunning views of the city. For those interested in history and culture, the Palais des Papes and the Pont d'Avignon are just a short distance away. Parc Chico Mendes stands as a testament to Avignon's commitment to providing its residents and visitors with high-quality green spaces. Its diverse offerings, tranquil atmosphere, and vibrant community events make it a valuable asset to the city and a must-visit destination for those seeking a refreshing escape from the urban environment.

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