Within easy reach of Paris by public transport, this is one of the region’s best hikes. Departing from the picture-postcard village of Monfort-l’Amaury, this summer hike winds its way through the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse, offering excellent swimming opportunities. Perfect for sunny days and high temperatures!
The most refreshing hike in the IDF is just 40 minutes from Paris.
Did you know that a veritable sandy beach stretches just 1 hour from the capital? In any case, it’s the drop-off point for the region’s most invigorating hike. Winding its way for over 13 kilometers through the Yvelines region, the trail takes in a charming village, a lush forest and, of course, this Maldives-like beach. A perfect escape from the heat and hustle and bustle.
Narrow cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, art galleries, an old church… Montfort l’Amaury and its charming attributes will be your starting point. Accessible by line N from Gare Montparnasse, the town is well worth a visit before or after your hike.
For the first stage, all you have to do is follow a sandy path surrounded by pine trees and small clearings. Once you’ve entered the forest, it’s not long before you come to the first watering hole of the hike, the Étang de la Plaine, ideal for a contemplative break. From here, the trail progresses along wide forest tracks in a welcome coolness. In places, you pass streams and wetlands rich in biodiversity. Then comes the pleasant surprise of the route, the Étangs de Hollande. A veritable beach of fine sand, where swimming is permitted and even supervised in summer. Here, you can take advantage of the many watering holes, take a break after your walk and, of course, cool off before the return journey. In fact, on the return leg of this loop, we take you back along shady, more intimate paths. We finish gently with a quiet wooded section before returning to the starting point.
All the ingredients for a pleasant outdoor outing. Although the hike is not particularly difficult, its length does require a good level of fitness and good footwear. You’ll also need to think about snacks and several liters of water! Find the full itinerary here.