The Bois de Boulogne—the green lung of Paris—begins just a few minutes from the Arc de Triomphe. Located on a small island in the park is the Châlet des Îles—the ideal place for a romantic dinner, a business meal, or simply a coffee far from the stress of the metropolis. The short boat crossing is part of the charm of this gem, which Napoleon III had recreated for his wife because she had fallen in love with Swiss châlets. It’s a special place year round, summer and winter.