Trois Pignons and the edges of Fontainebleau
In the south-east of the department, the Trois Pignons Forest extends the Fontainebleau massif into the Essonne. Sandstone blocks, pines and stony chaos: it is a paradise for climbers but also for walkers. Around Milly-la-Forêt, the rocks recall the old quarries; the medieval market hall and the chapel decorated by Cocteau offer a cultural excuse before a picnic on the moss.
Juine and Yvette valleys
The Juine, the Essonne and the Yvette trace on the map three small rivers whose banks are ideal for walking or cycling. The Juine valley, between Étampes and Chamarande, aligns mills, washhouses and wheat fields. The neighbouring Yvette valley appeals to lovers of gentle hikes. You meet at the suburban-train station, boots on and picnic in the bag.
Étampes and the Fontenay marshes
In Étampes, the Guinette Tower, a medieval keep on a hilltop, overlooks the royal town and its Notre-Dame collegiate church. Not far away, the Fontenay-le-Vicomte marshes offer wooden footbridges and bird hides in surprisingly wild surroundings. On Lyad, members from the Essonne share their favourite trails; it is up to you to find someone to listen to the frogs singing on a spring evening.
Date ideas
- Fontainebleau Forest
- Milly rocks
- Juine Valley
- Yvette Valley
- Essonne Valley
- Fontenay Marshes
- Trois Pignons
- Guinette
