When people think of the area around Fontainebleau, rocky outcrops or forest trails often come to mind first. Yet, just a few minutes from Moret-sur-Loing, the landscape changes completely. Here, no more rocks or pine trees as far as the eye can see: instead , ponds, reed beds, and marshes take center stage. Welcome to the Plaine de Sorques, one of the most stunning natural areas in Seine-et-Marne.
Located between Montigny-sur-Loing and Moret-Loing-et-Orvanne, this nature reserve connects the Loing River to the Forest of Fontainebleau. The site covers over 100 hectares and offers a wide variety of landscapes: bodies of water, woods, wet meadows, and riverbanks follow one another along the trail.
Perhaps the most surprising aspect is its history. The Plaine de Sorques hasn’t always looked like this. Long exploited for its gravel pits and sand quarries, it gradually gave way to wetlands that were subsequently reclaimed by nature. The result: a particularly rich ecosystem has developed over the years.
Today, the site is designated a Sensitive Natural Area and is home to remarkable biodiversity. Migratory birds, amphibians, dragonflies, reptiles, and even red deer are regular visitors. Several observation points allow visitors to discreetly observe the wildlife without disturbing the environment.
For your walk, there are two options. A short loop of about 1 kilometer quickly takes you to a bird observatory. For a real getaway, the long 5-kilometer loop crosses the banks of the Loing before reaching the edges of the Fontainebleau Forest. Allow about two hours to take your time exploring the entire area.
Accessible in about an hour from Paris, the Plaine de Sorques remains largely in the shadow of Fontainebleau. This is good news for those looking for a quieter spot to walk along the water’s edge without leaving the Île-de-France region.
📍Plaine de Sorques
