The Maincourt Trail, a Natural Oasis in the Chevreuse Valley to discover

The Sentier de Maincourt, nestled in the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse, is a haven of peace for nature lovers and hikers. Easily accessible and open to all, it invites you to a 1 to 2 hour walk, with fascinating observations of the local flora and fauna.

The walk can start from the parking lot located between Mesnil-Saint-Denis and Dampierre-en-Yvelines. You can also choose to make a wider hike for a loop starting from the Village of Dampierre itself.

Here is what this discovery trail offers:

• A walk through one of the largest marshes in the park
  
  
  
• Along the Yvette River, a charming waterway
  
  
  
• Observation stations and educational panels providing information on the history, fauna, flora and ecology of the site
  
  
  
• A trace of an old sandstone quarry, testimony to a fascinating geology and history
  
  
  

Not only is the path adapted to walkers, but it is also accessible to PRMs ( people with reduced mobility), thanks to a path that winds between tall vegetation and a pond. After extensive ecological restoration work, this trail has been awarded for its accessibility and respect for nature.

One of the most appealing aspects of this walk is its family-friendliness. The trail offers an interactive discovery experience, with time spent looking for and observing frogs, listening to various bird songs, and even picnicking on the benches along the way.

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For those looking to extend the experience, there is the marked"grand tour". The green path is the one that remains accessible to all and returns on itself while the orange path, takes you on a loop through the forest. Count on about an hour of walking or 2 with frequent stops. This part is not accessible for handicapped persons and you will have to climb a small slope to admire the view on the heights.

In addition to providing a great view, this longer route includes fascinating places such as the mill dam and wash house, as well as climbing the hillside to the sandstone quarries.

In conclusion, the Maincourt Trail in the Chevreuse Valley is a great walk that is accessible and ideal for hot days as it remains shaded by the forest. This natural treasure is an invitation to slow down, breathe and reconnect with nature. Enjoy it and let the beauty of nature amaze you.