Val-d'Oise: nature walks in the vast Montmorency national forest

If you're a keen walker, you'll know that theIle-de-France region offers a wealth of green spaces where you can exercise and relax in the heart of nature. As theOffice national des forêts (ONF) reminds us, the Ile-de-France region boasts 50 state-owned forests, " i.e. 72,500 hectares of forest home to 148 cultural sites ", some of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the legendary Château de Versailles. From the forest of Fontainebleau, in the south of the Île-de-France region, to the forest of Rambouillet in the west, via the forest of Carnelle in the north... the choices are numerous, and each one offers a moment of pure escape.

Another state forest in the Val-d'Oise that's a must-see? Montmorency. This forest is located just twenty kilometers north of Paris, at the crossroads of several communes, including Saint-Prix, Montmorency, Saint-Leu-la-Forêt and Domont.

Thanks to its size - 2,200 hectares, including 1,972 hectares of state-owned forest - this is the largest forest in the Val-d'Oise, and welcomes almost 5 million visitors a year, making it the 5th most visited forest in the region!

It has to be said that the Montmorency state forest is not lacking in assets, thanks in particular to its many walking and hiking trails. Key trails include " Le sentier des lisières " (27 kilometers) for long-distance hikers, " Le chemin du philosophe" (the philosopher's path ) and two educational trails for families.

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On these walks, you'll discover a wealth of natural beauty, including many chestnut trees, as well as cherry and maple trees. If you're lucky, you may even spot deer, foxes and even turtles!

But the Montmorency state forest also boasts a number of cultural treasures, including the Sainte-Radegonde fountain, the Plumet tower, the Godard pond to the south-west and the imposing Château de la Ch asse to the east.

A point of interest for many walkers, this architectural site has undergone many changes over the course of its history. Although several kings have stayed here in the past (Charles V, Louis XI, François I...), the Château de la Ch asse now belongs to theOffice National de la Chasse. Closed to the public, it only opens on very rare occasions, such as Heritage Days, according to the Val-d'Oise tourism website.

The Montmorency state forest is also a popular destination for cyclists, thanks to the various routes on offer, including one from Montsoult through the Montmorency forest to L'Isle-Adam.

Note that the Montmorency forest is not easily accessible by public transport. From Gare du Nord station, take Transillien line H, direction Persan - Beaumont, and get off at Bouffémont - Moisselles station. From there, you can take a shuttle bus to the forest entrance.

By car, there are a number of nearby parking lots, such as the Bouquet de la Vallée, located near the Château de la Chasse.