Parc Zoologique de Thoiry near Paris
The Parc Zoologique de Thoiry is one of the most famous and most original animal attractions in Europe. Comprising a perfect family day out given that not only does this fabulous attraction feature lots of exotic animals, but also a beautiful castle, stunning gardens, and the largest and only interactive green maze in Europe, all located only 35km from Paris.
The site extends over 150 hectares, is home to over 1000 un-caged animals and 130 species, and includes a chateau and botanical gardens. Located a short distance away from the French capital this safari adventure can boast as being the first wildlife park and has around 800 free roaming animals. Species such as antelopes, zebra, elephants, big cats and bears happily live there but which you will have to admire from the confinements of your car or tour bus for safety reasons. However, there are areas of the safari that can be experienced on foot, including the glass tunnel, a unique and exciting concept allowing you to get close up to the lions, as well as other parts allowing you to see animals such as giraffes, monkeys, and Komodo dragons.
The charming chateau, surrounded by the massive park, is worth a visit in itself as it contains some beautiful furniture, amongst other things which will be shown to you by the guides in costume who will also take you to the château drawing room and apartments. Finally, a beautiful garden with a maze extending over 300 acres, also graces the front of the palace, something which plant lovers will not want to miss as it contains lots of beautiful and rare flowers.
Practical information:
Dates: Open all year round.
Times: Vary in accordance with the season. Click here for more information.
Where: Parc Zoologique de Thoiry
Address:Parc Zoologique de Thoiry, du Pont de St-Cloud, Thoiry-en-Yvelines, 78770, France
Prices: Adult 26.50 euro, Child 20.00 euro, Senior Citizens 23.50 euro, Disabled Visitors 12.50 euro. Click here for further details, special offers and to purchase tickets.
Directions: From the 24th of April to the 2nd of October there is a shuttle bus that will take you directly from Paris to the reserve every Sunday at 9.15 am. Click here for further information on the tour on offer.
If not by bus a car is required. Don’t worry about your vehicle because if you follow the park safety instructions there shouldn’t be any problem.
Thoiry is:
20 minutes away from Versailles taking the A12/N12.
55 minutes from Disneyland Paris taking the A186, A86, N12, D11.
35 minutes from west Paris
Directions from Paris.
Get on junction A13, A12 then on the A12, and then on to the N12 heading towards Dreux. Take the exit to Thoiry, follow the D76 and then the D11 in the direction of Thoiry.
Information& Bookings : Tel: 01 34 87 49 26 – Fax: 01 34 87 54 12 – Contact: chateau@thoiry.net
