The Ermenonville forest is a little-known nugget to be discovered over a weekend. This 3,300-hectare haven of peace belonged entirely to the Chaalis Abbey before the French Revolution. It is part of the Trois Forêts massif in the Hauts-de-France region: Halatte, Chantilly and Ermenonville. During your hike, you’ll discover a magnificent forest of Scots pines, but also a “sea of sand”.
Ermenonville forest: the moors at the gateway to Paris
Situated in the Oise department, not far from the pretty town of Senlis, the Ermenonville forest is full of little paths to follow, among its majestic hundred-year-old pines. Its unique sandy moors, recognized as ecological sites of interest, are rich in preserved biodiversity.
In this haven of peace, far from the hustle and bustle of Paris, you’ll find a complete change of scene. Filled with heather and wildflowers in summer, this beautiful estate, 1,600 ha of which belong to the Chaalis Abbey, is home to two beautiful lakes, as well as a château that you can of course visit.
Throughout the year, it’ s not unusual to see cows grazing in the fields. This haven for forest animals is also very popular with nature lovers in search of the best shot to immortalize.
In this almost mystical atmosphere, you’ll marvel at the remarkable oak and pine trees, as well as the Druidic stelae… It’s a walk you’ll want to take just outside Paris.
📍Location: 1 avenue de Sylvie 60950 Ermenonville