The park's name, 'Ballastière,' originates from its history as an industrial site where ballast for railway construction was extracted.
The central lake is a direct remnant of the site's former life as a gravel extraction quarry.
The park is integrated into the 'Coulée Verte,' a regional green corridor designed to promote non-motorized travel through the Yonne valley.
Parc de la Ballastière is a 12-hectare recreational area situated on the banks of the Yonne River in Sens. The site was formerly a gravel pit, which has been reclaimed and transformed into a public park featuring a significant body of water. It serves as a regional hub for leisure, offering designated walking trails, a skate park, and a children's play area. The park's topography includes expansive grassy meadows and wooded sections that provide natural habitat. It is a managed space under the jurisdiction of the Communauté d'Agglomération du Grand Sénonais. Visitors can access the riverfront paths which connect to broader regional cycling routes.
The wooden footbridge offering a panoramic view of the lake with the trees reflecting on the water surface.
Bring insect repellent during summer evenings, as the proximity to the water can attract mosquitoes.
Check local signage for specific designated fishing zones if you plan to fish.
Utilize the paved paths for cycling or jogging, as they offer the most direct route through the park.
Do not attempt to swim in the lake, as water safety regulations and depth variations make it unsuitable for public bathing.
Keep dogs on a leash, remove all waste, and respect quiet zones near residential edges.
