This hike near Paris lets you discover authentic villages in an idyllic setting

20 kilometers east of Paris, via the N19, is a change of scenery. A hike in Val-de-Marne combining both nature and heritage. Over 11 kilometers, relatively easy, this walk takes walkers to discover the villages of Marolles-en-Brie and of Santeny having retained a certain authenticity, the Grosbois castle, the Notre-Dame forest, the banks of Réveillon, the Les Sarments du Réveillon vineyard. All in a green setting.

What not to miss during this walk

The departure takes place at the Grosbois trotter training center, the horses’ last stop before the races at the Vincennes racecourse. More than 80 trainers live and work at the Grosbois estate all year round. In total, more than 1500 horses can be accommodated. The jockeys and their horses offer a unique spectacle in this idyllic setting.

On the way, don’t miss the Saint-Julien de Brioude church, the oldest church in Val-de-Marne and a magnificent witness to the transition from Romanesque to Gothic. Built on the remains of a Carolingian chapel, it is listed in the inventory of Monuments
Historical since 1909.

Still in Marolles, don’t miss the priory highlighted by the park that surrounds it. From this park, you can contemplate the apse of the church, an admirable example of Romanesque construction.

Another necessary stop: the Lyons farm. Fiefdom of the Cossignys, then the Lyons, it was divided by Louis Richard in the 17th century then seized as national property during the Revolution. The Besse family who bought it had the castle demolished. The remaining farm retains a beautiful dovecote.

An exotic loop to do in around 4 hours.

Find the route of the French Hiking Federation here.

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