It’s right in the heart of Paris, but the newest section of the Parc Rives de Seine is easily missed by visitors hunting out the well-known landmarks of the Right Bank. Opened in April, a stretch of riverbank between Pont Neuf and Pont de Sully has been transformed into a pedestrianised, nature-focused eco zone. It follows on the success of the Left Bank’s riverside revival in 2013 (between Pont D’Alma and Pont Royal) creating a vast, 10-hectare playground, criss-crossed by several bridges.

Flower beds have replaced roads, there are benches, deck chairs and the odd hammock, and the more energetic can use exercise bikes stationed along the river. There are pétanque courts, a mini-football pitch and plenty for children to do, from climbing walls to swings and via ferratas up tree trunks. Other nice touches include a piano on which anyone can sit and play a tune or two, and 3D telescopes offering users a Parisian history lesson. There are fairtrade and locavore snack outlets, open air bars and plenty of green picnic areas. The perfect spot for escaping the summer city buzz.

Elaine MacKenzie, publisher of Urbanito Guides (urbanitoguides.com). Paris: The Family Edition is out now