Passerelle Grand Jard Chalons Cathedrale Nature © Michel Bister

The Grand Jard

A garden full of life

For some, a place to take a stroll, for many a vast playground, and for others a fisherman’s paradise, the Grand Jard is an invitation to enjoy a host of varied activities. With shaded pathways, a charming 19th century bandstand and beautiful flower beds, this is a wonderful place to go for a walk and to enjoy the many events that take place there throughout the year.

A garden full of life

for spending happy moments

A Garden ‘à la française’

Designed over two centuries ago, the Grand Jard is a French-style gardenwith a high degree of symmetry.

In the centre, there is a bandstand, around which many music and festive events regularly take place.Several ponds surrounded by paths lined with chestnut trees are ideal for strolling around and getting some exercise.

Walkers and runners love this place. At the end of the Grand Jard, the footbridge, which was entirely renovated in 2021, spans the canal and leads to the Jard Anglais. It offers an exceptional view of the Grand Jard and Saint-Etienne cathedral.

Chalons Plage Grand Jard Transats © Christophe Manquillet

The Anse du Jard Promenade

This walk offers a view over the Ile aux Oiseaux (bird island), an exceptional wildlife reserve in the heart of the city. It is also a favourite spot among fishermen.

A little further on, there is a boating centre which accommodates passing pleasure boats. And, at the outlet of the Anse, barges and boats pass through the lock, which is always an impressive operation to watch.

The skate park and

play areas

A superb skate park, inaugurated in 2017, includes bowls, ramps, low walls, speed curves, etc… A 1500m² space, designed in geometric shapes and curves. To avoid collisions between children and adults, a mini skate park has been constructed, for children under the age of 8. Here, they can practice rollerblading, tricycling, skateboarding or scootering.

There is also a large play area for children aged 3 to 12 with a rope pyramid, huts, swings, balancing poles, and more – a real island of fun for kids.

And, if you prefer team sports, two of the six pits surrounding the bandstand feature a football pitch and a grass volleyball court.

Skate Park Grand Jard Jeunes Ados Enfants @ Christophe Manquillet

Skate Park Grand Jard 1 @ Christophe Manquillet

Skate Park Grand Jard Bmx @ Christophe Manquillet

Welcome to

Châlons Beach

Each year, in July and August, the Grand Jard is transformed into a huge “beach”. Sports activities, cultural events, relaxation, and, catering of course.. there are dozens of events that take place throughout the summer for everyone to enjoy.

Throughout the year the Grand Jard is brought to life with other events such as the Saint Glin Glin funfair, the Furies Festival marquees, concerts, dances and lots more.

For those looking for rest and relaxation

Sunbathing area with loungers, sandpit for children.

For the more active

Beach football and beach volleyball, basketball, table tennis, badminton, table football and teqball, mini-golf, water sports centre with pedalos for adults and children, canoes and kayaks. In addition, there are introductory sessions in ultimate frisbee, zumba, fitness, pony rides, and more…

For culture vultures

Night & Day barge, mobile library, theatre, cultural activities (drawing, painting, and crafts), open-air cinema, and more.