This stunning lake near Paris is free to reach by RER until 30 August
This summer, a stunning lake on the doorstep of Paris is finally open to everyone, no car required and completely free of charge. A free shuttle now connects RER stations to the Vaires-Torcy leisure island, and the service runs until 30 August inclusive.
Free access to this stunning lake, designed for everyone in Île-de-France
Finding somewhere cool in the middle of August in Paris can feel like a real challenge. That is precisely what prompted the Paris-Vallée de la Marne tourism office to launch free shuttles to the Torcy leisure island. The goal is straightforward: give as many people as possible access to the swimming areas, without public transport being a barrier.
The initiative is championed by Xavier Vanderbise, mayor of Courtry and vice-president of the local authority. It addresses a genuine need: the leisure island, as appealing as it is, is not always easy to reach for public transport users. The free shuttle fills that gap in a direct and practical way.
How the shuttle actually works
The service is simple to use. Every day, shuttles run in both directions between Torcy station (RER A) and Vaires-Torcy station (Ligne P), dropping passengers right at the leisure base, its beach, and its stunning lake.
- Service available every day, Monday to Sunday
- Operating hours: 1 pm to 6 pm
- Free shuttles in both directions (Torcy to Vaires-Torcy and back)
- Weekday frequency: approximately every 30 to 40 minutes
- Weekend frequency: approximately every hour
It is worth factoring in that wait time, especially on Saturdays and Sundays. On weekdays the pace is faster, making it easier to plan your day. Either way, the service remains entirely free until 30 August inclusive.
What this stunning lake across 350 hectares has to offer
The Vaires-Torcy leisure island opened on 3 June. It spans 350 hectares, making it an exceptionally generous space to unwind. The crystal-clear lake sits at its heart, surrounded by a beach and a wide range of facilities.
On site, visitors will find large water slides and a host of nautical activities. The spot lends itself equally well to a relaxed day of swimming and to livelier outings with family or friends. This stunning lake offers a genuine escape from the urban heat, all without leaving the Paris region.
For Île-de-France residents without a car, the free shuttle is a genuine game-changer. Reaching this stunning lake from RER A or Ligne P becomes a real option, with no extra cost and no complicated detour. It is an opportunity worth grabbing before the end of August, with temperatures set to run particularly high this season.
