Randocité

RandoCité aims to promote an active, low-cost lifestyle through walking and hiking, encouraging physical fitness, mental wellbeing and intercultural exchange among residents and non-residents of the Cité universitaire (CIUP Paris). By exploring the forests and villages of Île‑de‑France, the project also raises awareness of environmental preservation, local heritage, and the value of accessible outdoor activities.

I founded the organization with 3 other residents of CIUP and we were selected as the recipients of the FIR (Fonds Initiatives de Residents).

Hiking is a great physical for maintaining fitness and mental well-being. The slow pace and limited equipment required makes it accessible to a large majority of the population. Walking in the nature is also a stress reliving activity, especially if you live in a city.

Paris represents the perfect example, it is a chaotic city in which people move fast and are under a lot of stress. Paris is also an international city, representing a hub for different nationalities, cultures and professions. Hiking in a group allows you to talk and engage with different people, share your views and make strong connections.

The region of Île‑de‑France is perfect for hiking. The capital of France lies at its center and is surrounded by beautiful forests and nature. On the north we find the amazing Val D’Oise, with its magnificent forests; on the south we find the Forest of Fontainebleau, with its amazing rivers, on the west we find Versailles and Chevreuse, with their castles and historical sites; and on the east we have the Marne Valley, famous for its breathtaking views. The region of Île‑de‑France is, in my opinion, extremely well-connected. If you live or stay near Paris you can reach any location in less than 1 hour with trains (RER or Transilien)!

These are among the many reasons why I founded RandoCité and kept organizing hikes. We have had a ton of positive feedback, created beautiful memories and sparked the birth of friendships and human connections.

Let me tell you about some of the hikes we’ve organized hikes.

In May 2025 we organized a hike near the Fontainebleau forest, registering more than 100 participants! Why? Well, it was a very special hike. During the trail we stopped to try rock-climbing near the hills and ended the afternoon swimming and relaxing near the Loing river.

My favorite hike was in the forest of Montmorency. I can still view the beautiful Chateau de la Chasse and the tower of Plumet, lost between the trees of a very old forest.