In the middle of the 19th century the spa town of Vichy undergoes a significant urban development. Well-off classes come from all France and from abroad to enjoy its Parc des Sources. Walk is an essential element in curists’ timetable. It is considered by the town council, the medical profession, curists and the local population to have various functions : being distractive and romantic, it contributes to the desired disorientation. Being hygienic and prophylactic, it is part of the spa treatment. Being an art of living the cure, it favours sociability at the spa.