Segway tour of Paris – Bois de Boulogne by Segway

Discover Paris’s Green Heart with a Segway Tour of Bois de Boulogne

If you’re looking for a way to see a different side of Paris, a Segway tour of Bois de Boulogne might just be your perfect adventure. While most visitors spend their time wandering the city’s historic streets, this experience offers an energetic, outdoor exploration of one of Paris’s largest parks, full of scenic spots and lush greenery. It’s a chance to combine sightseeing with a bit of fun and adrenaline, especially if you’re into active, open-air activities.

From what we’ve gathered, this tour really hits the mark for those who want a guided, informative ride through nature, with the bonus of visiting highlights like the Bagatelle Park and the Hippodrome d’Auteuil. Two things we particularly like are the fact that the guides are knowledgeable and engaging, making the experience both enjoyable and educational, and that the route covers nine different stages, giving you a comprehensive taste of the park’s many treasures.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is not suitable for children under 14 and pregnant women, so it’s best suited for teens and adults who enjoy a bit of outdoor activity. Also, the pricing of around $80 per person is quite reasonable considering the duration and the exclusive guided experience. Overall, if you’re a traveler who loves outdoor exploration, stunning scenery, and a bit of adventure, this tour will likely suit you well.

Key Points

• Guided experience with knowledgeable guides making the tour both fun and informative.
• Diverse route covering nine stages, including key sights like Bagatelle Park and the Hippodrome.
• Great for outdoor lovers wanting an active way to explore a major Parisian green space.
• Affordable at around $80 per person for a 2.5-hour tour.
• Private options available, adding an exclusive touch if you prefer a more personalized experience.
• Tour is most suitable for ages 14 and up, with certain restrictions for younger children and pregnant women.

An In-Depth Look at the Segway Tour Experience

This Segway tour of Bois de Boulogne offers an engaging way to explore Paris’s sprawling green lung, far from the busy city streets. The adventure begins at La Grande Cascade, a picturesque starting point near the park, with a 10:00am departure. Once you’re geared up and ready, the 2.5-hour journey provides not just sightseeing but also a lively experience that keeps your energy up.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Stop 1: Parc de Bagatelle
Your first stop is the famous Bagatelle Park, where the tour includes a 30-minute visit. This spot is celebrated for its beautifully maintained gardens and artistic landscaping. The guide will share insights into the park’s history and significance, making it more than just a quick look. Reviewers highlight how much they enjoyed this part, with one describing it as “very much recommended” and praising the fun and educational vibe Florian, the guide, brought to the experience.

Stop 2: Hippodrome d’Auteuil
Next, the tour takes you to the Hippodrome d’Auteuil, a historic horse racing track. It’s a brief stop—about five minutes—ideal for some quick photos and explanations from the guide. Travelers found this stop particularly interesting for the chance to see this lively venue up close while learning about its role in Parisian life.

The route itself is carefully designed to showcase the Lakes, the Mare Saint-James, and the Grande Cascade, along with the Auteuil Racecourse. The improvised slaloms between trees add a playful element, making the ride feel more dynamic and fun. It’s clear that the guides aim to balance sightseeing with a sense of adventure, which many reviews appreciated.

The Route and Scenery: Why It Matters

The nine-stage route ensures you get a comprehensive sense of Bois de Boulogne’s natural beauty and history. The park’s large size means that without a Segway, covering such a stretch on foot would be tiring and time-consuming. With the Segway, you can comfortably enjoy the views, fresh air, and peaceful surroundings without fatigue.

Throughout the tour, you’ll love the variety of landscapes—from the picturesque rose gardens in Bagatelle to the wide open spaces around the lakes and the elegance of the racecourse. The guides are adept at pointing out details you might miss on your own, such as interesting plant species or historical tidbits.

The Equipment and Group Size

Equipment quality is consistently praised. Reviewers mention that the Segways are in excellent condition, which enhances safety and comfort. The maximum group size is 18, ensuring that you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the guides can focus on individual safety and questions.

The Guides: Who Makes the Difference

From multiple reviews, it’s clear that fluent, energetic, and well-informed guides like Florian and Ivan significantly enhance the experience. They not only provide explanations about the sights but also create a lively, friendly atmosphere. One reviewer noted that Ivan’s patience and detailed explanations made the activity special for their children aged 12 and 13, with private rides being recommended for younger teens.

The Cost and Value

At about $80 per person, this tour feels like good value for a guided outdoor activity with exclusive access to parts of Bois de Boulogne. Considering it includes detailed commentary, a scenic route, and the chance to explore a major park without the fatigue of walking, many find it worth the price. It’s a far more engaging alternative to simply walking through the park alone.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is easy to book and can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility in case your plans change. The activity is near public transportation, making it accessible within Paris.

Safety is a priority: the tour is not suitable for children under 14, pregnant women, or anyone with certain safety concerns. Proof of age may be requested, and minors must be accompanied by an adult. The activity begins promptly at 10:00am, and you should arrive on time to ensure a smooth start.

While most travelers can participate, the experience is designed for those comfortable on a Segway and capable of handling the slight physical demands. The guides are experienced in managing groups of mixed ages and skill levels, making it inclusive for most.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Segway adventure is ideal for active travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone looking to see a different side of Paris’s parks in a fun, engaging way. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided experiences, scenic routes, and a bit of a thrill. If you’re traveling with teenagers or adults who can handle the physical aspect, this will likely be a highlight of your Paris trip.

However, if you’re a family with small children or have mobility restrictions, it may not be the best fit. Likewise, those wary of riding a Segway or with safety concerns should consider the activity’s restrictions.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone wanting to combine sightseeing, outdoor activity, and a touch of adventure, this Segway tour of Bois de Boulogne offers a unique and enjoyable way to experience one of Paris’s most beautiful parks. The knowledgeable guides, scenic stops, and playful elements make it a memorable outing that stands apart from typical city tours.

It’s particularly well-suited for those who crave active exploration and want to see the natural and historical highlights of Bois de Boulogne without the exhaustion of walking. The price point is reasonable for the experience, and the private options add flexibility if you’re seeking a more personalized journey.

If you’re comfortable on a Segway and eager to discover a different side of Paris, this could become one of your favorite outings.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is open to people aged 14 and over. Minors aged 12 or 13 can book a private ride with their parents. Personal transport vehicles cannot be used by children under 11, and pregnant women are advised not to participate.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including stops at key sights.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at La Grande Cascade and ends back at the same meeting point.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the guided Segway experience and access to the stops along the route. The equipment is in excellent condition, and the tour can be privatized for groups.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, receiving a full refund.

Are private tours available?
Yes, all routes can be privatized, making it a good choice for groups wanting a more exclusive experience.

Is the equipment safe and in good condition?
Yes, reviewers praise the Segways as being in excellent condition, ensuring safety and comfort during the ride.

What should I wear or bring?
While not specified, it’s best to wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity and bring a hat, sunglasses, or sunscreen if sunny.

In all, this Segway tour offers a lively, scenic, and informative way to discover Paris’s Bois de Boulogne. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, it’s an adventure that combines fun, nature, and a touch of Parisian elegance in one memorable outing.