Now that the weather is warming up, people in Paris are shedding their layers of clothing. Some people prefer to shed every layer. They are called nudists, or naturistes. The website ParisFrance.com is the only online guide to the city of Paris with information on nudist organizations and events. The Association des Naturistes de Paris, or ANP, is a non-profit group of naturistes who practice swimming and aquatic games at Roger Le Gall pool in the 12th arrondissement. Lifeguards are on duty during the sessions. Naturism and Nudism should not be associated with sexual activity and swinging. In fact, come-ons are forbidden at ANP events. Naturism is simply a way of life characterized by communal nudity with the purpose of a closer relationship to nature and a person’s natural state. The ANP currently has approximately 500 members of all ages. The group is affiliated with both the French Federation of Swimming and the French Federation of Naturism. New members are welcome but must provide identification and attend three sessions as a “training visitor” before joining the ANP. A popular destination for naturists from all over Europe is Héliomonde, in the town of Saint-Chéron. It’s a 47-hectare naturist camping village with a variety of overnight accommodations and activities. Héliomonde is surrounded by forest and offers nature hikes, swimming pools, a sauna, Turkish baths, tennis, and a full-service restaurant.

For information about Paris events and groups tailored to your own specific interests–whether they be sporting events, concerts, or outdoor fun, visit ParisFrance.com.