Le Riad is a distinctive small gay sauna in the far east of Paris at 184 rue des Pyrénées in the 20th arrondissement — a residential neighbourhood with a local, unhurried feel, reached on Metro line 3 (Gambetta) or line 2 (Père Lachaise). The venue offers good value: entry around €19 with a significant reduction for under-26s.
True to its name, Le Riad is decorated in an oriental Moroccan-riad style — tiled walls, archways, warm amber lighting — making it the most visually distinctive of the Paris saunas. Facilities include a sauna, steam bath, pool, bar and relaxation areas within a compact, intimate setting.
The distance from the Marais means the clientele is almost entirely local: east-Paris regulars, men from the surrounding Belleville and Ménilmontant communities. It is consistently described as worth the journey for the unique atmosphere and friendly, non-touristy crowd.
Cruising & adult areas
Private cabins and a dark zone form the cruising area. The pool and steam room are the active social and cruising focal points. More relaxed in pace than central Paris venues.
