Arboretum de la Base de Loisirs de Jumièges

In the heart of the Jumièges-le-Mesnil Leisure Park, in the Seine Valley, there is an arboretum planted with some sixty tree species. Make the most of a pleasant walk in an unspoilt setting to explore this educational site. Thanks to interpretative signs at the foot of the trees, you will learn more about the trees planted there.

On that day, I took the children to the leisure park of Jumièges-le-Mesnil, the ideal place to unwind, have fun and enjoy a beautiful family day out. We could try the numerous activities available, and the children were very happy. In the morning we hired a pedal boat, and we even tried our hand at SUP boarding, not easy! For lunch, we went to the beach snack bar and ate by the water. In the afternoon, the children did the scavenger hunt Planet'Enigme and I relaxed in the sun.

As the children went on their adventure, I headed towards the beach. On my way I saw an information panel with a map. I got closer and read "Remarqu’arbres” (Remarkable trees). Well, well, there's an arboretum! I couldn't say no to a walk among trees. I discovered imposing and majestic trees, such as splendid oaks and plane trees. As I strolled in the shade of the trees, I looked up to admire the sun shining delicately on them. The sky wasn't blue anymore but full of shades of bright green. It was splendid! In the distance, I could hear the sound of children laughing, but I felt as if I was cut off from the rest of the world. I focused on the sounds of the leaves rustling with the light breeze, and from time to time I could hear twigs cracking under my feet. In this green setting, I felt like immersed in a bubble of tranquillity and well-being, it was very relaxing. I savoured this simple and pleasant time.

Labels at the foot of the trees indicated the name and the variety they belonged to. I even discovered a ginkgo biloba, also known a maidenhair tree, which had survived the Hiroshima bomb explosion! I was impressed by the resilience of this species, and more generally of nature itself. I was really pleased with this unusual and educational idea of planting an arboretum in the middle of a leisure facility.

My walk took me back to the beach. This interesting break was delightful before dipping my feet in the water!