Avenue Foch: Our Serene Escape Before the Olympics

The last week of June 2024, just as the Olympic excitement was starting to build in Paris, we found ourselves wandering around our neighborhood of Avenue Foch. It was a

Metro Entrance at the west end of Avenue Foch

bittersweet experience; many areas were closed off, and bleachers lined the streets in preparation for an upcoming Olympic event. Despite these interruptions, Avenue Foch retained its timeless charm and elegance.

A Glimpse into History

Avenue Foch, originally named Avenue du Bois de Boulogne, was inaugurated in 1854 during Baron Haussmann's transformation of Paris. This grand boulevard was later renamed in honor of Marshal Ferdinand Foch, a hero of World War I. Walking along this historic avenue, we felt a deep connection to the city, surrounded by architecture that spoke of Paris' grand history and cultural evolution.

Our gate and entrance to our apartment

Architectural Splendor

The avenue is a showcase of Parisian opulence. We marveled at the Haussmannian buildings with their symmetrical layouts, stone façades, and wrought-iron balconies. Interspersed among these were Art Nouveau and Art Deco structures, adding a modern flair to the avenue's timeless elegance. The private mansions, hidden behind lush gardens, whispered tales of aristocrats and diplomats who once called Avenue Foch home.

Our Experience

Jon in the Avenue Foch elevator

Staying in a charming, cramped apartment on Avenue Foch, we began our mornings with leisurely walks in the 16th arrondissement. The serenity of the area, despite the Olympic preparations, offered a peaceful retreat. Frankie, our energetic cattle dog, reveled in the open spaces and tree-lined sidewalks.

Gaining access to our apartment building required navigating multiple coded gates, which added a layer of security and exclusivity to our stay. Once inside, we squeezed into a tiny 2' by 3' elevator that transported us to our apartment on the sixth floor. The snug ride was an adventure in itself, and we couldn’t help but laugh at the novelty of it.

Bois de Boulogne, located on the western edge of Paris, became our favorite retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Spanning over 2,000 acres, this expansive park offered us a peaceful haven with its lush forests, picturesque lakes,

Frankie and Jon at Bois de Boulogne

and expansive lawns, perfect for our leisurely strolls and relaxing picnics. Our first day there we walked over 19,000 steps. We particularly enjoyed wandering its numerous walking and cycling paths, surrounded by dense forest. It was easy to forget we were in Paris. Frankie loved the freedom of running through the walking paths (one time briefly off-leash) and sniffing around the gardens.

Notable Landmarks

Though some landmarks were inaccessible due to the Olympic preparations, we still enjoyed the majestic Arc de Triomphe. Standing at the eastern end of Avenue Foch, it

Jon and Jen on the east side of the Arc de Triomphe

offered a panoramic view of Paris, including a stunning vista down the avenue itself. The intricate carvings on the Arc, depicting scenes of French history, left us in awe. There was a conspicous crane blocking unobscured photography shots, which we realized was another part of the prepartion for the Olympics.

We had hoped to explore the Musée Marmottan Monet, located nearby. This museum is renowned for its extensive collection of Impressionist art, particularly the works of Claude Monet. Each painting is said to capture a piece of Paris’ soul, further deepening one's appreciation for the city's artistic heritage. Although we missed visiting it this time, it remains on our list for our next trip.

Enjoying Local Delights

Frankie walking down Avenue Foch

One of our favorite spots was the expansive park in the center median along Avenue Foch, where Frankie could run freely. The lawns provided a beautiful backdrop for our daily walks, creating a perfect blend of greenery and urban charm. We loved watching Frankie’s pure joy as she darted between the trees and rolled in the grass. These moments of peace and happiness in such a picturesque setting became a cherished part of our morning routine.

Avenue Foch, despite the temporary Olympic disruptions, offered us a unique blend of history, architecture, and tranquility. Our time there, intertwined with Frankie's enthusiastic discoveries, created lasting memories. This grand boulevard, with its serene charm and storied past, remains a jewel in Paris' crown, even amidst modern celebrations. The rich history and architectural beauty of Avenue Foch will always hold a special place in our hearts, and we look forward to returning once the Olympic excitement has settled.