A point of freshness surrounded by the city. This is what you can find in this ephemeral pool, nestled in the heights of the 18th arrondissement of Paris, in the Poissonniers sports center. A pool that has nothing to do with an “improvised swimming pool bathtub”, as indicated by Eric Altes, director of sports equipment for the Montmartre area, specially mobilized in the Poissonniers area for the occasion – there is also five other ephemeral basins in Paris.
The device has nothing to envy to holiday clubs: space secured by an agent (who acts as an extra as the setting is peaceful), with a solarium, sports activities galore (aquagym, archery, badminton , table tennis, football, basketball and many others) and impeccable hygiene. It is in a good-natured atmosphere and under the laughter and songs of the youngest, that families, users and outdoor centers frequent the pool.
This initiative of the City of Paris has rendered a real service during the heat wave, described by users as a real “oasis in the city”. On the one hand, it makes it possible to compensate for swimming pool closures for works, and on the other hand, it allows the children of the district, which is far from being the most favored in the capital, to socialize with children and activities for free.
Safe Haven
It is while humming that the children of the outdoor centers come to bathe and enjoy the activities, to then take their parents there once they return from work. There are also the curious who come through word of mouth, like a young mother. “If I hadn’t seen my girlfriend’s Snapchat, I would never have come,” she explains. From time to time, those disappointed by the Bassin de la Villette come to find refuge in this little haven of peace, with a peak in attendance of 200 visitors per day, far from the crazy queue at La Villette.
“We did a service because it is not over-known. “, explains Eric Altes.
Overall, the Poissonniers swim has had good feedback and many compliments according to Eric Altes. This Wednesday, a guest book was set up by users. Despite this, reservations were raised by visitors that 20 minutes interviewed, such as a mother of three who particularly regrets the lack of organized activities for toddlers.
- Free. Open from July 9 to August 21. 2, rue Jean-Cocteau, Paris 18th. Monday to Friday: 12 p.m. – 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.