Established in the 1960s, Cergy is a planned commune in the northwestern suburbs of Paris. It was created in response to a housing crisis in the wake of World War II and occupies a riverfront site that inspired Impressionist painters. Today, Cergy is famed for its immense artistic monument by the Israeli sculptor Dani Karavan.
Things to do in Cergy
Cergy makes an excellent base for visiting the Musée Tavet-Delacour, which occupies the 15th-century residence of Pontoise’s Grand Vicar. It houses an impressive collection of 20th-century art, including works by Henri Matisse and Jean Arp, as well as unique historical artefacts such as a piece of Louis IX’s skull. Nearby is the Musée Camille Pissarro, which exhibits works by the Impressionist artist and those he inspired.
Travelling with kids? Spend an afternoon at Koezio Cergy, an indoor adventure park with attractions to suit all ages. In addition to escape games and virtual reality experiences, there are team-focused games and private karaoke rooms. Adjacent is the ice-skating rink of Aren’Ice, which serves as a training hub for the French ice hockey team.
One of Cergy’s most popular attractions is Axe Majeur, a monumental work of art that was created by Dani Karavan over 30 years ago. It comprises 12 “stations” along its 3.2-kilometre length, several of which offer magnificent views across Paris. Climb the 36-metre-high Tour Belvédère and stroll through the Impressionist-style gardens, then cross the bright red bridge that spans the Oise River.
Getting around Cergy
Cergy is around 45 minutes’ drive from the centre of Paris and 40 minutes from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to the Cergy Prefecture railway station while buses travel throughout the commune, connecting most of its attractions.