Ile de France Walks

Wednesday 15 February at Etampes

2012-02-11T16:30:00.000+01:00

The Tour Guinette at Etampes

This coming Wednesday 15 February Stuart Ellis will lead us on a 20km country and village walk in the Essonne. It will be possibile to leave the walk after 10km. It’s a great itinerary. Here is Stuart’s info.

Part 1: Etréchy to Etampes along the valley of the Juine river (10 km):

The route takes us through the pretty town of Etréchy and then a short (but steep) climb to the Butte Saint Martin. The walk is mainly through and along the edges of oak forests, passing through several charming Essonne villages and farms before descending to Etampes. We shall lunch in the shadow of the 12th century Tour Guinette where there is a good panoramic view over Etampes. Etampes RER station is right below the Tour Guinette for those who want to return to Paris after lunch.

Part 2: Circuit of Etampes (10 km):

The route takes us into the countryside behind and overlooking Etampes before descending to the really lovely Chalouette river which we follow back into Etampes. We then trace a route through historic Etampes which takes in the three medieval churches, including St Martin with its leaning tower, and the market square!

Trains

Outbound:

9.32 Gare d'Austerlitz RER C (ELBA), direction St. Martin d'Etampes (zone 1-5)

This train leaves Javel at 9.14 ; St. Michel-Notre Dame at 9.28; and Bibliotheque F. Mitterand at 9:35
and arrives 10.23 at Etréchy

Return:

16.30 Etampes
17.28 Gare d'Austerlitz
**trains every 30 minutes**

Hopefully the weather will be dry and sunny but—as usual—come prepared!

Contact me if you need more info.

Mobile number: 06 19 85 25 56

Best Regards,
Stuart Ellis

The Leaning Tower of St Martin d'Etampes

Wednesday 8 February from Le Perray to Les Vaux

2012-02-04T23:37:00.002+01:00

Léon Germain Pelouse, Hiver à Cernay

We are not letting a bit of cold weather deter us. Next Wednesday, Feb. 8 after two city walks, we will return to the country with Judy Choat as leader. Our hike will be a loop from Le Perray-en-Yvelines to the lovely Vaux de Cernay and back to Le Perray. Here is Judy's information:

On Wednesday I am proposing a hike of 21km. (OH NO! I hear you say, but go on, rise to the challenge!) It is a beautiful route, mainly forest, but passing through a village with a privately owned 19th century chateau; also on the way a former 12th century Cistercien abbey, which fell into ruin after the revolution and was bought and renovated at the end of the 19th century by the Rothschild family. We will also pass two attractive lakes, one of which was the inspiration for the French landscape painter Leon Germain Pelouse.

There are two or three short, steep hills and there could be a short, very muddy section. Let's hope the mud stays frozen. As it is quite a long walk and the daylight hours are short at this time of year we will have to keep up a reasonable pace!!

If it is very cold or wet we could, after a democratic vote, shorten the walk to 16km. We can decide en route, but we will have to stay together.

Travel Arrangements

I shall drive so will see you at Le Perray en Yvelines station.

Departure: Gare Montparnasse, train REPU, direction Rambouillet at 8.54 arriving at Le Perray en Yvelines at 9.52 (zone 5). Do not cross the tracks but exit at Rue du Petit Pas.

Return:

Probably train PERU direction Montparnasse at 16.27 arriving at Montparnasse 17.28. There is a return train half an hour earlier or half an hour later.

As usual wear boots and bring lunch — we will not pass any cafes along the way!

If you need to contact me here is my mobile number:

06 84 30 91 47

and my home number:

01 30 80 01 34

See you on Wednesday!

*********************************************

Here are some pictures taken during the walk.

The étang de Cernay

The abbey of Les Vaux de Cernay

Picnic at the monument to Léon Germain Pelouse

Wednesday 1 February in the upper Hauts de Seine

2012-01-30T13:02:00.000+01:00

This week’s walk, 12.5 km., will be led by Mary Lynne, in the northern part of the department of the Hauts- de-Seine, from Colombes to Rueil-Malmaison, for the most part, along the Seine. Here is ML’s info:

Our itinerary will take us along a 450 m. “Coulée Verte (photo op tags) and the center of Colombes before we head down to the Seine where we will discover three parks, two of which have been created along an industrialized section of the river: “Parc Départemental Pierre-Lagravère”, and “Parc du Chemin de L’Ile”. Following the “Promenade Bleu” we will arrive at the “Parc des Impressionistes” in Rueil-2000. Between the parks there is a lot to see and learn about the industries and water sanitation along the river.

The park Pierre Lagravère is situated on what was formerly the Ile Marante which was attached to the mainland when the A86 was built. You can read about the Moulin Joly which was on the island, and the other parks on these sites:

http://fr.topic-topos.com/le-moulin-joly-colombes

http://promenades.hauts-de-seine.net/web/nature/parc-pierre-lagravere

http://promenades.hauts-de-seine.net/parc-chemin-ile

http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parc_des_Impressionnistes

Getting there: Gare St. Lazare, SNCF train NOPE, at 9:41, direction Nanterre Université, arriving at Les Vallées, zone 3, at 9:53. I will board that train at Bécon Les Bruyeres. If you happen to take an earlier train, when you get out at the gare des Vallées, go under the tracks you arrived on and then go over another set of tracks on a footbridge to come out on the Colombes side of the station where there is a pedestrian commercial street.

Return: RER A, Gare de Rueil-Malmaison. Trains every 10 minutes; more at rush hour.

You will need a picnic lunch, cold weather protection and a dose of good humor. The terrain is flat, there’s not much mud but good hiking shoes are recommended. A word of caution: the first “arrêt technique” will be a good kilometer after the train station.

If 12.5 km is not enough for you, it is possible to continue along the Seine right to Croissy, Bougival or even as far as Le Pecq!

See you on Wednesday!

Mary Lynne mlfich@yahoo.com 06 70 88 18 59 01 47 41 98 20

Wednesday 25 January in Paris

2012-01-21T16:27:00.005+01:00

On the canal Saint Martin

As a change from last week's delightful "mega-muddy" trails, this week Dominique Raveau will lead us on cement and macadam in Paris from the place de la République to La Villette.

If any of you are raring to get back out into the countryside, have a hike to propose, and can get your proposition to me quickly, we can certainly have two walks this week. Meanwhile here is Dominique's information.

I propose a walk along the Canal St Martin and the Bassin de la Villette ending with a stroll through the Parc de la Villette where we'll have a picnic. After that we can visit le Musée de la musique (history and collection of instruments). If we have a group of at least ten people the visit with audio-guide in French or English costs 6€40 per person (8€ full price). The pace will be rather a promenade, altogether not more than 4½ hours.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canal_Saint-Martin

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bassin_de_la_Villette

http://www.citedelamusique.fr/francais/cite/presentation_musee.aspx

Meeting at 10 am, sortie 3 from metro République, rue du Faubourg du Temple

Return : Metro Porte de Pantin line 5

My mobile : 06 33 23 07 31

Looking forward to seeing you
Dominique

At la Villette

Wednesday 18 January in the royal forest of Montceaux

2012-01-19T00:10:00.001+01:00

The château at Montceaux lès Meaux

Jean-Louis Narjoux will lead this week’s walk in the department of the Seine et Marne (77) just beyond the city of Meaux, permitting us to discover the town of Trilport and the Forest of Montceaux, which was yet another royal hunting spot before the revolution.

Here is Jean Louis' information:

Je vous propose une rando aux Bois de Monceaux à Trilport le Mercredi 18 janvier, 2012 d’environ 18 km; environ 5h (y compris pique nique); pas de difficultés particulières.

Equipement ad hoc, bonnes chaussures (terrain peut-être un peu boueux) pique nique... (Good hiking shoes as there might be mud, picnic lunch as usual.)

Getting there :

R.V : gare de l'Est pour le train "ZIMO" de 09h51 direction Chateau-Thierry; arret: gare de Trilport à 10h 20

Return : retour de la même gare, possible à 15h 38 ? ou 16h 38 si on traine un peu.

(Return from the same station, possibly at 15:38, or maybe 16 :28 if we walk slowly.)

Bien amicalement,

Jean-Louis Narjoux.

Wednesday 11 January on the Grand Morin

2012-01-08T19:27:00.000+01:00

Near Crécy in a harder winter than this one

Daniel Perot will lead this week's walk in one of the loveliest spots to the east of Paris in the valley of the Grand Morin. There will be a possiblility to leave early. Here is Daniel's information.

Let's hope this wonderful weather continues (ho, hum!)

On Wednesday January, 11th, our walk will start at Crécy-la-Chapelle, la Venise briarde in the Brie, with its river the Grand Morin and its lovely brooks.

We will take the train from the gare de l'Est, in Paris, to the station of Crécy en Brie-La Chapelle (zone 5).
1. Départure : Gare-de-l'Est 9:31. Direction: Meaux (train MICI). Arrival at Esbly 11:02.
2. At Esbly, transfer to Crécy en Brie-La Chapelle at 11:07. Arrival 11:20.

Then... Will we chose a bucolic or an athletic walk? (same itinerary). Also a shorter walk until lunch time is possible. In any case the return is still in zone 5.

For a bucolic walk - Return from Crécy en Brie 15:38. Arrival in Paris at 16:28.
For an energetic walk - Return 14:38. Arrival 15:28.
For a shorter walk - After 6 kilometers with the group, you can catch a train going to Paris at the station "Villiers-Monbarbin" at 12:41 (single ticket/zone 5).

We will cover 12 kilometers in 3 or 4 hours. Change in altitude: 49 m/130 m.

Remember to bring along water and some lunch... rain gear, sun gear, snow gear (if necessary), hats. We will walk through fields and woods and along rivers (with only one hill).

Come and visit "la Venice briarde" in winter. Just take your sturdy shoes and come with us for a lovely walk.

If you wish to be informed of any changes or cancellations, please r.s.v.p. to daniel.perot@free.fr with your cell number if you have one and your home phone if not.

Daniel
09 50 56 65 26
01 45 90 65 26
Mobile (only on the day of the walk) 06 99 20 70 79.

Wednesday 4 January at Vincennes

2011-12-31T18:26:00.000+01:00

Dear IdF hikers,

Happy New Year! Here's to good health to all of you and lots of wonderful hikes in 2012.

We will start off the year on Wednesday 4 January with a hike in the Bois de Vincennes with Jean Chameroy, doing "Les quatre lacs du bois" with no hills,14kms and possibility to leave before the end in Vincennes or St. Mandé.

Rendez vous at ten o'clock near the golden statue Porte Dorée, Line number 8.

Bonne Annee a tous. Jean

Wednesday 21 December, the Marne at Lagny

2011-12-17T19:27:00.008+01:00

The aqueduc de la Dhuys

We will finish our year of hikes 'in beauty" with Jean-Louis Narjoux along the Marne. He proposes an 18 km hike, starting and ending at the Gare de L'Est. He says that there will be the possibility of doing only 14 km. Here is his information:

For next Wednesday we'll take a walk of some 18km, four or five hour's walking. There'll be a stiff climb at the beginning, followed by terrain that's either flat or downhill. We'll see the Aqueduc de la Dhuys then return along the banks of the Marne. There's a strong possibility of mud.

Pour mercredi prochain je propose une rando de 18 km env. (4ou5 h de marche) avec une forte montée au départ ensuite plat ou descente.

Programme: l'Aqueduc de la Dhuys, retour par les bords de la Marne. Le terrain peut être boueux.

We meet at the gare de l'Est in good time to take the 10.01 train 'MICI' going to Meaux. We get off the train at Lagny Thorigny (zone 5) at 10.24. We will return from the same station, with trains every half hour.

R.V. gare de l'EST départ du train "MICI" (direction Meaux) à 10h01; descendre à Lagny-Thorigny (10h24). Retour par la même gare! Pour le retour il y a des trains toutes les demi heures.

If 18km seems a bit much, you can shorten the walk to 14km by leaving the group and the Marne and following the well-marked GR trail that leads to the station.

Pour ceux qui trouveraient la marche trop longue, on peut ne faire que 14 km. (en quittant le groupe et en suivant seuls un GR bien balisé jusqu'à la gare) en abandonnant les bords de Marne.

See you Wednesday!

A mercredi !

Jean-Louis

Henry Lebasque, Fog on the Marne at Lagny

Wednesday 14 December: Boulogne-Ville d'Avray-Versailles

2011-12-10T14:36:00.000+01:00

Corot, Etangs de Ville d'Avray 1860

This week we will have just one walk, but with the possibility of leaving early.

This coming Wednesday, December 14, Daniel will lead a walk from Boulogne to Versailles.

Distance: 15/16 kilometers with three hills.

The walk will start by crossing part of the Parc de Saint-Cloud and then on to Versailles via the attractive village of Ville-d'Avray where we will have our lunch facing the Etangs de Ville-d'Avray.

We shall meet at 10:00 am by the metro station Boulogne Pont de Saint Cloud on métro line 10.

Get there. From the platform, take the exit Musée Albert-Kahn (to the right), next to a bus stop. There are road works being done near this bus stop, so you may have to walk toward the Pont de St. Cloud to find the temporary bus stop.

SHORTER WALK

Full distance: 6.5 kilometers, with one hill you can bypass. For a shorter walk, you have your lunch at the Etangs" with the group, then return to Paris from the station Sèvres Ville d'Avray (zone 3).

The distance from the Etangs to the station is 1.5 km. You will walk to this station in town without a guide, but it's easy to find.

LONGER WALK

From Versailles (zone 4) we'll return to Paris by RER C or train (Gare Montparnasse or Gare St. Lazare).

You will need a picnic lunch and water, and sturdy waterproof shoes as the forest can be muddy in December.

If you wish to be informed of any changes or cancellations, please
r.s.v.p. to daniel.perot@free.fr with your cell number if you have one and
your home phone if not.

Daniel
09 50 56 65 26
01 45 90 65 26
Mobile (only the day of the walk) 06 99 20 70 79.

Wednesday 7 December at Beynes or Saint Germain

2011-12-06T11:01:00.001+01:00

Dear Hikers,

This Wednesday, December 7, we will have two walks. The longer one will be led by Judy and Cecilia, the shorter one by Prudence.

By popular demand, Judy and Cecilia will lead again a 15-16 km walk, (hilly in places), in the Forêt Domaniale de Beynes and the surrounding countryside. Here is their information:

We will walk along the banks of the river Mauldre and through pretty little villages: Saulx-Marchais and Cressay (with its historic "lavoir"). You will need stout walking shoes, a picnic lunch and water. Depending on the weather forecast, don't forget rain gear

We will take the 9.43 train from Montparnasse, Direction Mantes la Jolie, arriving at Beynes (zone 5) at 10.32. Some of you may find it convenient to join us at Versailles Chantiers at 10.08 or one of the other stations along the way (Saint-Cyr, Plaisir, etc).

Return trains are every hour: 16.04 (probably too early), 17.04 (more likely -- arriving 17.49).

Since Zone 5 has merged with Zone 6, the Mobilis 5 zones now costs only 14 euros, the same as the return train fare to Beynes.

Mobile phone numbers: Judy 06 84 30 91 47; Cecilia 06 45 68 88 05.

Wednesday Dec 7 walk - the shorter one!

We'll meet at 10.05 at the RER A gare St Germain en Laye. That train goes through Châtelet Les Halles at 9.30 and La Defense at 9.37.

The whole walk will take no more than 2 hours and will cover about 8 km or less, and no hills! We'll go along the esplanade and some of the "sentier des oratoires". I don't know of a specific cafe near the gare where we could have a light lunch, but there must be plenty. Any ideas?

A bientot,

Prudence
01 46 26 03 06
06 63 44 60 09 (day of the walk)

See you on Wednesday. Let's hope that our usual good luck with the weather holds.

Wednesday 30 November, "la Campagne à Paris"

2011-11-26T17:22:00.000+01:00

St Germain de Charonne

This Wednesday, Marcel Kohl will lead us on a city walk to discover the charms and the history of the 20th arrondissement. Here is his information.

On Wednesday, we'll walk in Paris in the 20th arrondissement.

After meeting at the metro station Gambetta (line 3) at 10:00 in front of the Mairie of the 20th, we'll go to St Germain de Charonne, the adorable village church (which started in the 12th century) and its parish cemetery, a sad place for André Malraux. Then down the picturesque rue Saint-Blaise, and near the Porte de Bagnolet, 'la Campagne à Paris'. Then place Edith Piaf, with a statue of the singer.

It will then be lunch time. Depending on the weather, your money and your wishes, we will either eat in a restaurant or have picnic in a park (or split up for lunch).

In the afternoon, we'll visit "le plus grand espace vert de Paris", le cimetière du Père Lachaise. We'll visit only a few graves, from Proust (le petit Marcel) to Jim Morrison, sans oublier Victor Noir, bien entendu, et Felix de Beaujour.

At the end of the walk it will be cold and we'll finish at metro Père Lachaise.

Warm clothes might be useful.

Amicalement,

Marcel

La Campagne à Paris

Wednesday 23 November at St Cloud

2011-11-20T19:21:00.000+01:00

Hello again, Idfwalkers,

This week we are proposing a second, shorter walk for those of you who would like fewer kilometers and maybe a slower pace. Several of us have been discussing the feasibility of offering two alternatives, so this is our "test run". Prudence, who will be having hip surgery in December, has propsed the following alternative to the walk in the Meudon forest.

Viewing Paris from the terrace at Saint Cloud

Hello fellow walkers

I have not been able to join the group recently because my decrepit hip will only cooperate for a few kilometers. I miss the walks so let's experiment and have 2 walks this week. The usual one between 12 and 16km and a shorty, 6 to 8 km, in the morning.

I suggest a walk through the Parc de St Cloud starting at Garches and ending at the Metro Pont de Sevres line 9.

We will meet at the SNCF gare Garches - Marnes La Coquette at 9.53. The train leaves Gare St Lazare at 9.33 direction St Nom La Breteche - Forêt de Marly or La Defense at 9.42.

The walk will be easy, about 8km, and we should be at the Pont de Sevres around noon. Lunch could be a snack in the parc or in a cafe near the pont.

Looking forward to seeing you,

Prudence: prukupka@aol.com

01 64 26 03 06

06 63 44 60 09

Wednesday 23 November at Meudon

2011-11-20T17:33:00.000+01:00

November in the forest of Meudon

Hello hikers,

Here is information about the November 23 walk to be led by Mary Lynne:

Next Wednesday we will hike in the beautiful Meudon Forest which, in addition to its beauty, has the added advantage of being less than five km from Paris. Former royal hunting grounds, this forest has been a very popular promenade destination since the 19th century. It has been maintained by the Office National des Fôrets (ONF) since 1965. If we are lucky, there will still be some leaves on the trees to delight the eye.

Distance: about between 12 and 14 km, depending on our return station, with some ups and downs. This forest is definitely not flat!

Pace: moderate, about 4 km/hour.

Getting there: We will begin our hike in Meudon at the Val Fleury RER station. Take the RER C SARA direction St. Quentin en Yvelines, which leaves Gare d'Austerlitz (9.21), St Michel (9.24), Invalides (9.31) or Javel (9.38). It will arrive at Meudon Val Fleury at 9.48, zone 3, where I will await the group.

At this writing I have not decided on our return station. It will be from either the Arrêt de Petit Jouy zone 4 or the Gare de Viroflay Rive Gauche zone 3 which has both SNCF and RER C trains going to Paris. I'm going to scout this walk on Monday and will post the return train station on Monday evening in case you want to purchase your return ticket or Mobilis ticket ahead of time.

You will need a picnic lunch and sturdy, waterproof shoes as forests can be muddy in November.

See you on Wednesday!
Mary Lynne

01 47 41 98 20

06 70 88 18 59

mlfich@yahoo.com

Wednesday 16 November with la Dame Blanche

2011-11-12T15:42:00.000+01:00

The château de la Dame Blanche

Daniel Perot will lead us in the Foret de Chantilly. This is one of our favorite walks that many of you have probably already done with us. Each time is different, however, and this time with a little luck there will still be leaves on the trees to admire. Our itinerary will include the étangs de Commelles, the château de la Dame Blanche et the château de Chantilly.

To go: We'll take the RER D "LUCA" that leaves Chatelet-les-Halles at 9:30 or Gare-du-Nord at 9:34 and arrives at Orry-la-Ville/Coye-la-Forêt (a big name for a station in the middle of the woods!) at 10:14.We meet at the head of the train.

Take a SINGLE ticket to Orry la Ville Coye. Mobilis tickets are not available on this line outside the Ile de France.

Return: From a different station: Chantilly Gouvieux, probably at 16:11 arriving in Paris at 17:03.

The 14 km walk will go around some ponds (étangs de Commelles) with the château de la Reine-Blanche, through the forest right up to the château de Chantilly. To learn about the mysterious Reine Blanche you might have a look at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efgE6HuZU10

Wear appropriate clothes, strong shoes, bring a picnic lunch and water.

If you wish to be informed of any changes or cancellations, please
r.s.v.p. to daniel.perot@free.fr with your cell number if you have one and
your home phone if not.

Daniel
09 50 56 65 26
01 45 90 65 26
Mobile (only the day of the walk) 06 99 20 70 79.

The château de Chantilly

Wednesday 9 November with Robinson and Chateaubriand

2011-11-05T09:53:00.001+01:00

In the Vallée des Loups

This will be a romantic walk of about 12 km through the parks of Plessis-Robinson, once famous for its guingettes (cabanes dans les arbres – the name of the town originates from them) and Châtenay-Malabry, in the footsteps of Chateaubriand and his mistress Madame Récamier. On the outs with Napoleon, the famous French romantic writer and politician had been exiled here, "far from Paris", for 10 years.

We'll climb first to the Parc Henri Sellier (maximum height 172m) - there you have a great view to the south of Paris. Then we'll descend to the Vallée aux Loups. There are no more wolves there but foxes can be seen in the sunset. There we'll have our picnic.

After that we'll stroll to the Parc de la Maison Chateaubriand where the writer himself planted some of the exotic trees in the beginning of the 19th century. Finally, the high point of our walk will be the Arboretum, once property of the Croux family, the famous nursery gardeners, where in the 19th century setting (folies et fabriques), you can admire some extraordinary trees and plants.

Bring appropriate clothes and shoes, a picnic lunch and a camera.

Depart from Chatelet-Les Halles at 9:20 – RER B direction Robinson, arrival at 9:46. The same train from Denfert-Rochereau at 9:28 - Be there earlier.

Return from Robinson to Paris every 15 minutes. Zone 3.

At the gare de Robinson walk to the head of the train then to the right and take the exit Avenue Jules Guesde, where I'll be waiting for you on the top of the stairs.

My mobile : 06 33 23 07 31

Looking forward to seeing you,

Dominique

In the Vallée des Loups

Wednesday 2 November along the Yerres

2011-10-30T10:16:00.000+01:00

On Wednesday 2 November, Bob Levy will lead a 16 km walk from Boussy Saint Antoine (zone 4, RER D) along the River Yerres and onward - hopefully through Fall foliage (photos taken this week) - to Boissy Saint Léger (zone 4, RER A).

It is a hike noteworthy (1) for the fact that the first half of the walk was done in July 2011 and many might have missed it, (2) for those desiring a shorter day, a 7-8 km option is available, and (3) for those who do the complete walk, they will be rewarded by a kilometer's stroll along a real 'live' moat – une douve – surrounding the (unseen) Château la Grange.

For those doing the entire walk, please note that currently some two kilometers of the route have a mud coating (not deep), so water resistant shoes are a must.

DIRECTIONS:

Depart: Gare de Lyon RER D, direction Melun, rear of the platform. Be there at 8:55 for the train at 9:08. Don't forget the clocks have changed and so 9:00 will not feel so early.

Return:

For those desiring the shorter day, return from Gare de Yerres, RER D. Trains to Paris every 15 minutes. The gare is a ten minute walk from the trail. Maps will be provided.

For those doing the entire walk, return from BOISSY, RER 'A', trains to Paris every 8 minutes. Please purchase your Boissy–Paris tickets in the morning at your home station, as the gare at Boissy is very crowded and has only two machines.

Bring appropriate clothes, strong shoes and a picnic lunch, including apples with cores for Mlle Trixie.

Contact;

Bob Levy: LEVYBOB@SBCGLOBAL.NET or

RAL415@GMAIL.COM

09 79 67 70 88

On the day of the walk: 06 43 45 58 33

Wednesday 26 October in the Quatre Piliers

2011-10-22T10:34:00.000+02:00

Next Wednesday 26 October, Daniel Robinot will lead us on a hike in the Forêt de Quatre Piliers in the Yvelines. Daniel is a long-time friend of our esteemed leader, Claude Faure. Many of you know Daniel already from previous walks. I'm sure that you will enjoy the hike he has planned for us.

Here is Daniel's information:

The train leaves from Paris Montparnasse at 8.40, direction Dreux. It arrives at the station Orgerus Béhoust at 9.24. The walk is from the station Orgerus.

Distance is 20 km, easy walking, only 183m change in altitude for the day.

The train back to Paris Montparnasse is at 3.13pm or 4.17pm.
I think the 3.13 train is possible. I estimated our speed at 4 kph but I believe the group can walk a little faster than that.

My mobile: 06 10 85 47 67.

For your information, there will be no possibility for a "pit stop" during the first hour of the hike, so please plan your morning coffee consumption with that in mind!!

You will need a picnic lunch and the usual rain gear just in case.

Wednesday 19 October on the Marne at Lagny

2011-10-16T10:05:00.000+02:00

The Marne at Lagny

This Wednesday Jean-Louis Narjoux will lead us on a lovely walk along the Marne. Here is his information.

For 19 October I suggest a 17km walk along the aqueduct of the Dhuis and along the Marne, starting and ending at the SNCF station Lagny-Thorigny east of Paris. Estimated duration is about 5 hours including lunch.

The train MICI towards Meaux leaves from Paris Gare de l'Est at 9.01 and arrives at Lagny-Torigny (zone 5) at 9.53. We'll meet on the platform at about 8.50.

Return trains are on the hour and half hour all afternoon.

It will be possible to avoid the last 4km and return directly to the station along the riverside path which the rest of us will take an hour or so later.

Wednesday 12 October: Two Rivers, Twin Village

2011-10-08T19:39:00.000+02:00

Janville sur Juine, the château at Gillevoisin

On Wednesday, October 12, Bob Levy will lead us on the 15 km route from the River Essonne to the River Juine. We will begin at Ferte-Alais on the RER 'D' walking west through that village and continuing west through what should be Autumn forest colors. By morning's end we arrive at the River Juine and the truly charming towns on either side: Janville and Lardy. We will lunch in a willow-filled park along the Juine then wind our way through the two villages.

Following lunch those who wish a short day can take the RER 'C' from Lardy returning to Paris. The route will take all of us up to the gare.

Following the station there is a hill. It is not especially steep, nor is it especially long. It is wide and graded, and in parts nearly paved. Still, for those who wish to avoid it, there is the train at Lardy. The rest of us will re-enter the Fall foliage and continue onward, finally descending to the village of Bouray and the RER C. Trains to Paris from Lardy and Bouray run every 20 - 30 minutes.

LOGISTICS: MEETING PLACE and TIMES

I strongly recommend purchasing a MOBILIS for this day. Without it, the cost can be as much as 18€.

We will meet at the GARE DE LYON, RER 'D', DIRECTION MALESHERBES: be there at 9:30 AM for the train at 9:41. We will board the last car going out.

Please keep in mind that certain 'D' trains begin their route at Gare de Lyon, so you may not necessarily be able to board this train at an earlier station. Instead, go to Gare de Lyon by any way you can (RER D, RER A, metro line 1 or 14) and check the departure signs for 'MALESHERBES'.

There is only one train each hour.

Picnic lunch, good shoes, high spirits, and a readiness to laugh.

Contact Bob Levy at:

LEVYBOB@SBCGLOBAL.NET

01 79 67 70 88

And on the day of the walk: 06 43 45 58 33

On the Juine at Janville

Wednesday 5 October from Champs to Noisiel and back

2011-10-01T19:50:00.000+02:00

The Moulin Saulnier at Noisiel

Next Wednesday's hike will be led by Daniel Perot. Here is his
information. Happy hiking!

The walk on Wednesday continues the one that took us to Champs-sur-Marne on Sept. 14. This time we'll press on to Noisiel.

Noisiel is known as the home of the Menier chocolate factory. In the second half of the 19th century Menier had become the biggest producer of chocolate in the world. In 1872 the architect Jules Saulnier was commissioned to design a radically ultra-modern factory, while housing, schools and a retirement home were built for the workers.

Now the factory is the French headquarter of Nestlé. Our walk there will include some detours to neighboring parks and ponds and a visit to the ahead of its time ferme du Buisson, now used as a theater. Also a visit of the new town that has emerged since 1975. Here a wide array of contemporary architecture is on show, created by architects such as Jean Nouvel or Christian de Portzamparc.

La randonnée du mercredi 5 août sera le prolongement de celle qui nous a conduit à Champs-sur-Marne la semaine dernière. Ainsi, nous continuerons notre escapade de Champs-sur-Marne à Noisiel.

Le nom de cette localité est attaché à l'ancienne chocolaterie Menier, dont vous visiterez les lieux chargés d'une fabuleuse histoire industrielle.
Notre rando autour de ce site, maintenant bien connu des marcheurs, sera marquée par quelques variantes parmi les parcs et plans d'eau, ainsi qu'un passage à la ferme du Buisson, ferme modèle en son temps, maintenant reconvertie en salle de spectacle.

TRANSPORT
RER A (the Marne la Vallée branch) to Noisy Champs (zone 4).
The train OKEY passes through Paris at
- Charles-de-Gaulle Etoile      9:38
- Châtelet Les Halles            9:43
- Gare de Lyon                     9:46
Arriving at Noisy-Champs at 10:06.

When you leave the train, turn to the right along the quay, in the same direction as the train, go up the steps and take the left-hand exit. We meet outside the station.

En sortant du wagon, se diriger dans le sens du train, prendre les escaliers, c'est la sortie à gauche.

RETURN (2 options)
From the station NOISIEL (zone 5) for a 12-kilometer walk.
From the station NOISY-CHAMPS (zone 4) for a 16-kilometer walk.

Bring the usual picnic lunch, water and rain or sun gear.
A good site on the Web:
http://www.ville-noisiel.fr/tourisme/documentation_touristique.html
then "Laissez-vous conter Noisiel" (french/english).

If you wish to be informed of any eventual changes or cancellations, please
r.s.v.p. to daniel.perot@free.fr with your cell number if you have one and
your home phone if not.

09 50 56 65 26
01 45 90 65 26
Mobile (only the day of the walk) 06 99 20 70 79.

See you on Wednesday!

Wednesday 28 September at Luzarches

2011-09-26T00:16:00.000+02:00

This Wednesday, September 28, Claude will lead us on a delightful end-of-summer hike in and around the town of Luzarches, about 30 km north of Paris in the department of the Val d’Oise. We will take an early train because direct trains to Luzarches are infrequent, and in doing so, we will be able to see the morning mist over the countryside. With any luck we will see dewdrops on spider webs before the sun has burned them off. Lunch will be beside a former washing house (lavoir). The town of Luzarches has several remains of its past worth seeing as well: the church, the market stall and a remaining city gate. Here is Claude’s information. You see that we are counting on a sunny day!

Quoi de mieux que de partir de bonne heure pour une magnifique randonnée ensoleillée de 14 km. Elle nous conduira à Luzarches pour découvrir cette jolie petite ville et ses environs vallonnés et parcourus de petits ruisseaux agrémentés de nombreux lavoirs.

Départ: Gare du nord à 8h49 par le train LOMI en direction de Luzarches pour une arrivée à Luzarches à 9h42 (quais pour les lignes Banlieue, ligne H, quai 30/31 probablement).

Retour: Gare de Luzarches à 15h51 pour une arrivée gare du nord à 16h42.

N'oubliez pas une petite laine pour la fraîcheur du matin, vos lunettes de soleil, votre pique-nique et votre bonne humeur habituelle.

Claude

01 30 92 04 95

06 84 14 55 35

Wednesday 21 September at Mareil sur Mauldre

2011-09-17T09:14:00.000+02:00

close-up view of the Mauldre at Mareil

Next Wednesday, September 21, Judy Choat will lead us on a walk in the department of the Yvelines, starting and ending in Mareil sur Mauldre. We have been to Mareil before, but Judy has prepared a brand new itinerary for us. Here is her info.

On Wednesday we will walk a circular trail from Mareil sur Mauldre. The distance will be 20-21 km and will involve a few gentle uphill sections particularly at the beginning. It will be through forest and fields and pretty villages with a glimpse (through a broken wall) of the Chateau de Wideville, one of five homes belonging to Valentino (fashion designer) which he bought in 1995 and has since restored—apparently at great cost .

Travel Information:

I will meet you at Mareil sur Mauldre station as I will drive there but you should travel thus:

Paris Montparnasse train MOPI, direction Mantes la Jolie leaving at 9.43 and arriving at Mareil sur Mauldre 10.35. This train stops at most intermediary stations, for instance: Meudon at 9:53, Sevres RG at 9:58, Versailles Chantiers at 10:07, Plaisir Les Clayes at 10:23. If you all want to travel together I sugggest you meet in the last carriage. Anyhow I will see you all on the platform at Mareil-sur Mauldre.

The return trains are hourly and I think the most likely one will be at 16.58, train POMI, arriving Montparnasse at 17.57

Wear strong shoes, bring a picnic and plenty to drink , also waterproofs (which will hopefully stay in your bag!)

My cell phone number in case of an emergency 06 84 30 91 47

See you on Wednesday,

Judy

classic bridge over the Mauldre

Wednesday 14 September along the Marne

2011-09-11T17:18:00.000+02:00

The château at Champs sur Marne

Daniel will be leading a walk on the beautiful banks of the Marne and its
parallel canal, where the constant passage of barges contrasts with the
elegant canoes and kayaks.

We'll visit the Château of Champs (the garden "à la Française"), one of the finest in France, set in a park in the "English style".
----
*Transport *

RER A (direction Marne-la-Vallée) to Neuilly-Plaisance (zone 3).

The train DYLA passes through Paris at
- Charles-de-Gaulle/Etoile              9:47.
- Châtelet/les Halles                      9:53.
- Gare de Lyon                              9:56.
Arriving at Neuilly-Plaisance at      10:09.
----
Meeting outside the station. Main exit, place de la Gare.

Return from Noisy-Champs on the same line but in zone 4.
----
Distance 15 kilometres.
Bring the usual picnic lunch, water and rain or sun gear.
> ----
See you on Wednesday!

Sunday 4 and Wednesday 7 September in the Chevreuse

2011-08-31T23:31:00.004+02:00

Château de Mauvières

Next Wednesday, Sept. 7, Bob Levy will lead us on a hike in the Chevreuse Valley, and he will also do the same hike this coming Sunday, Sept. 4 for the PAN hikers. If you cannot join us next Wednesday you are welcome to join the PAN group this Sunday. Here is Bob's info:.

Châteaux and villages in the Chevreuse

This is a terrifically diverse walk of 16 km / 10 miles

From the RER 'B' Station at St Rémy lès Chevreuse (and no, this is not a walk we have done before) we walk south through a lovely mile-long arbor of trees to the village of Boullay les Trous. Crossing fields we soon re-enter the forest and proceed to the Château de Breteuil. From there the forest path leads us to the extraordinary village of Choisel, then the Château de Mauvières. A short climb through the Forêt de Mauvières, then a level route along the GR11, the village of Chevreuse, then the riverside back to St. Rémy (PHOTO). Trains depart St Rémy for Paris every 15-20 minutes.

For those desiring a somewhat shorter day, there is a bus from Chevreuse to St Rémy at 2:50 pm, saving the walker the final 3 kms.

Meeting time and place Châtelet Les Halles, RER B, at the rear of the platform, direction St Rémy. Meet at 9:10 for the 9:25 train. For those wishing to board the train further south, allow 2 minutes for each station between yours and Châtelet Les Halles. For example Port Royal is 3 stops south so wait 6 minutes more for the train to arrive.
CONTACT: BOB LEVY LEVYBOB@SBCGLOBAL.NET or 09 79 67 70 88
CONTACT DAY OF HIKE (SUNDAY the 4th) 06 43 45 59 00

Bob Levy

The village of Chevreuse

Wednesday 31 August along the Essonne

2011-08-28T12:38:00.000+02:00

Highland cows at Vert le Petit

On Wednesday, August 31, Mary Lynne will be our leader. Here is her info:

Our walk in the Essonne River valley will take us from the town of Ballancourt to Mennecy and then back to Ballancourt by another route, about 15/16 km on mostly flat terrain. The Essonne flows north from the Beauce plateau for 97 km to join the Seine, giving its name to one of the departments through which it flows.

We will hike beside lakes and marshes with flora and fauna that the Department of the Essonne is preserving. In fact, these wetlands are some of the best preserved in all of the Ile de France. This hike is sort of a continuation of Virginie’s Essonne hike last May. Here is a rather “corny” preview of what we may see at the ponds of Vert le Petit. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWasCUz7FG4

We will also walk through the Parc de Villeroy in the town of Mennecy which is known for its alignment of 130 giant sequoias. http://www.mennecy.fr/main.php?r=ENVIRONNEMENT&page=env2_1.php.

Departure: RER D4, train BIPE, direction Malesherbes, leaving Chatelet les Halles at 9:37and Gare de Lyon at 9:41, arriving at Ballancourt (zone 5) at 10:32.

For those living outside Paris, a Mobilis ticket is usually less expensive than two one-way tickets. We’ll meet downstairs on the quay so as to be able to get on the last car.

Return: from Ballancourt, trains every hour. The one we are most likely to take leaves Ballancourt at 16:47.

Bring the usual picnic lunch, rain protection, sturdy waterproof shoes and good humour.

See you on Wednesday, hoping for good weather.

mlfich@yahoo.com

06 70 88 18 59

0147419820

Wednesday 24 August

2011-08-21T19:20:00.000+02:00

Next Wednesday 24 August, Claude will lead us on an easy 13 km hike along the Marne from Esbly to Lagny.

The highlight of this walk will be the Dhuys Sculpture Garden, a majestic and mysterious open air museum created by Jacques Servières from blocks of limestone, once part of an aqueduct that was destroyed during WWII.

You can check out this fascinating collection and the story of its creation at: http://www.jardindesculpture.net/cariboost1/crbst_2.html

Here is Claude's info.

Cette randonnée facile de 13 km nous conduira encore une fois au bord de l'eau, sur les bords de Marne entre Esbly et Lagny. En chemin nous pourrons admirer les sculptures monumentales, en pierre cette fois-ci, du jardin des sculptures de la Dhuys.

Avant de reprendre le train nous pourrons faire un petit tour dans la charmante petite ville de Lagny.

Départ : Gare de l'Est à 10h Train MICI en direction de Meaux arrivée à 10h01 à Esbly (zone 5).

Retour : Gare de Lagny à partir de 14 h avec un train toutes le 30 mn.

N'oubliez pas pique-nique, lunettes de soleil et parapluie, et votre bonne humeur habituelle.

Claude

01 30 92 04 95

06 84 14 55 35

Wednesday 17 August around Beynes

2011-08-13T09:46:00.000+02:00

Countryside near Beynes

Dear Hikers,

On Wednesday, August 17th, Judy and Cecilia will lead a 15-16 km walk, hilly in places, in the Forêt Domaniale de Beynes and the surrounding countryside. We will walk along the banks of the river Mauldre and through pretty little villages: Saulx-Marchais and Cressay (with its historic "lavoir").

You will need stout walking shoes, a picnic lunch and water. Depending on the weather forecast, don't forget rain gear and/or suncream and a sunhat (part of the walk is through open countryside with no shade).

We will take the 9.43 train from the Gare Montparnasse (direction Mantes la Jolie) arriving at Beynes at 10.32. Some of you may find it convenient to join us at Versailles Chantiers at 10.08 or one of the other stations along the way (Saint-Cyr, Plaisir, etc).

Return trains are every hour: 16.04 (probably too early), 17.04 (more likely -- arriving 17.49).

Since Zone 5 has merged with Zone 6, the Mobilis 5 zones now costs only 14€, the same as the return train fare to Beynes.

Mobile phone numbers:

Judy 06 84 30 91 47

Cecilia 06 45 68 88 05.

See you on Wednesday!

The lavoir at Cressay

Wednesday 10 August: Louette and Chalouette

2011-08-07T23:51:00.000+02:00

Saint Martin d'Etampes

Our next hike on Wednesday, August 10 will be led by Claude Faure. Like last week, this walk will be in the Essonne, on another branch of the RER C. You will need a picnic lunch. Here is Claude's information:

Our walk, near Etampes, will take us along two small rivers, the Louette and the Chalouette, and through several small and charming villages. If you feel up to it, this 15km walk can be extended to 20km and take in the stream-side watercress beds.

Cette randonnée nous conduira près d'Etampes le long des petites rivières "La Louette" et "La Chalouette" qui traversent de sympatiques petits villages. Cette randonnée de 15 km peut, si vous êtes courageux, étendue à 20 km afin de découvrir les cressonières le long de ces ruisseaux.

To get there: Gare d'Austerlitz, RER C ELBA (direction Saint Martin d'Etampes) at 9:28, arriving at Saint Martin d'Etampes (zone 5) at 10:28. This train also leaves Bibliotèque François Mitterrand at 9:31.

Attention: Since RER C service is interrupted betweeen Invalides and Austerlitz until August 20, you will have to get to Austerlitz or Bibilotèque by bus or metro. Etampes is now in zone 5 because zones 5 and 6 have been merged to make one zone.

Return: RER C at 15:47 or 16:13 for the 15km walk.

As usual, bring a picnic lunch and be in a good mood: good weather is forecast.

Comme d'habitude, pique-nique et bonne humeur le beau temps étant en principe prévu.

Claude
claude.faure90@sfr.fr

On the banks of the Chalouette

Wednesday 3 August at Dourdan

2011-07-31T10:16:00.002+02:00

Dourdan: castle, church and market square

Dear Hikers,

Next Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011, Krystyna will be our leader in the town of Dourdan and its forest. Here is her information.

You will discover Dourdan, the beautiful historic town and the forest "Forêt de l'Ouye" south of Dourdan. The first part of the walk will visit the city center of Dourdan with its royal XIIIth century castle, its market hall and marketplace as well as its church and the Hôtel-Dieu. Then you will tour the picturesque streets of Dourdan and stroll around its ramparts.

We will picnic on the castle lawn, with coffee after for those who want it. Bring a picnic lunch as usual. In the afternoon we will tour the forest of Dourdan via the circuit of Ouye, 8 km. Visits to the Castle and the Abbey of Ouye as well as the circuits of "Buttes Blanches" and the ponds of the "Boiling Fountains" are planned for a subsequent hike as soon as I have time for them.

Departure:

At the RER C Gare d'Austerlitz station take at 09:13 the RER C ELBA train,
direction DOURDAN, which arrives at Dourdan (zone 5) at 10:15. Please board the last car going out of the station. The train stops at Bibliothèque François Mitterrand station at 09:16.

Attention: Since the RER C service is interrupted betweeen Invalides and Austerlitz until August 20, you will have to reach Austerlitz or Bibilothèque via metro or bus.

Return:

From Dourdan at 16:00, to arrive at Austerlitz at 17:03.

Looking forward to seeing you all.

Krystyna
06 03 53 41 66
chocolat.blanc@yahoo.fr

The convent of Ouye

Wednesday 27 July in the forest of Carnelle

2011-07-23T19:07:00.003+02:00

The Lac Bleu

On Wednesday July 27th, Daniel will lead us in the Forêt de Carnelle. Here is his information:

We'll take the train POMA from the Gare du Nord (surface) at 9:36, arriving at Presles Courcelles (zone 5) at 10:17. (Direction Persan-Beaumont, via Montsoult-Maffliers). We will meet at the end of the platform and board the last car (i.e. the one closest to our meeting point). The platforms for the suburbs (banlieue) are on the far right part of the station. If you are unfamiliar with the Gare du Nord, it would be wise to give yourself extra time to navigate through the station.

Return from Gare de Viarmes (also zone 5) on another line. Get another single ticket.

15:58 / Paris 16:42
16:57 / Paris 17:41
17:27 / Paris 18:11

The walk will cover from 14 to 16 kilometers depending on the routes we choose together. Be prepared for a couple of hills.

On the menu: la Pierre Turquaise (megalith), la route forestière du Bois Belle-Fille leading to l'Etang Bleu, where we shall need a solid picnic and water. On our way we can observe deer and llamas in their enclosure.

One more effort: the last upward slope is breathtaking, and not because the view. "La forêt de Carnelle se mérite!" Your reward: a brand new train should take us from Viarmes to Paris.

Looking forward to seeing you. Bring your smiles and sunshine will reward us.

Daniel

If you wish to be informed of eventual changes or cancellations, please give Daniel your cell phone if you have one, home phone if not.

Tel. 09 50 56 65 26

01 45 90 65 26

Mobile (only the day of the walk) 06 99 20 70 79

Email: daniel.perot@free.fr

Wednesday 20 July at Rambouillet

2011-07-16T19:39:00.000+02:00

Next Wednesday, Krystyna will lead us through the delightful Rambouillet Forest, formerly a favorite royal hunting ground, located about 44km southwest of Paris in the department of the Yvelines. Here is Krystyna's information:

On Wednesday 20 July we will go hiking in the forest of Rambouillet on former royal hunting roads. The walking will be on an easy level. We can go to the Rambouillet Animal Reserve where we can see birds of prey, deer, boar, etc.—if we agree to pay the ticket 9 or 12 €. Here is the website for the Espace Rambouillet.

http://www.onf.fr/espaceramb/sommaire/decouvrir

The duration of the stroll is 6 hours, the picnic included.

Departure:

At the train station Paris-Montparnasse take at 09.33 the train number 65477, direction Chartres, which will arrive at the Rambouillet station at 10.04. Please board the last car going out of the station.

It serves the station Versailles-Chantiers at 09.47. I will join you there in the last car.

Return:

From Rambouillet at 16.05, arriving at Paris-Montparnasse at 16.34.

I hope see you all on next Wednesday!

Krystyna

0603534166

Chocolat.blanc@yahoo.fr

Wednesday 13 July at Saâcy sur Marne

2011-07-09T18:37:00.002+02:00

village church at Citry sur Marne

Dear Hikers,

Next Wednesday, 13 July, Jean-Louis Narjoux will lead us on the hillsides of the Marne River and around two towns in the northern part of the Seine et Marne department, east of Paris. This will be a new itinerary for Ile de France Walkers. Here is Jean-Louis' information:

For July 13th I propose an 18-kilometer walk in the countryside around Méry and Saâcy on the Marne. Varied scenery, attractive but hilly, with some ups and downs. Count on about five hours walking, plus our noonday picnic.

Getting there: we'll meet at the Gare de l'Est and catch the 8.50 train ZIMO, headed for Château Thierry. We arrive at the station Nantueil-Saâcy (zone 6) at 9.47.

Coming back: we'll catch the return train at Nantueil-Saâcy, either at 16.19 to arrive in Paris at 17.08; or at 17.19 to arrive in Paris at 18.06.

Pour le 13 juillet je propose une rando de 18 km sur les coteaux de la Marne autour de Méry sur Marne et Saâcy sur Marne. Paysages variés, intéressants mais vallonnés, c’est-à-dire avec des montées et des descentes... Prévoir 5h de marche environ (hors pique-nique)

Rendez Vous : Gare de l'Est, train "ZIMO", départ 08h50, en direction de Chateau-Thierry

pour NANTEUIL-SAâCY où nous arriverons à 09h37.

On peut viser un retour de NANTEUIL-SAâCY à 16h19 (17h08 gare de l'Est) ou 17h19 (18h08 gare de l'Est).

You will need a picnic lunch and good walking shoes.

See you on Wednesday!

Wednesday 6 July along the Yerres

2011-07-02T19:59:00.005+02:00

On July 6 Bob Levy will lead us on a lovely riverside hike along a tributary of the Seine, the Yerres River. Here is Bob's information:

This is a walk perfect for warm summer days. The route begins south of Paris at Boussy St. Antoine then proceeds along the River Yerres. 15 km, always beneath shade trees and through forest and park. This walk is absolutely level.

Also it provides alternatives for those wanting a shorter day; the RER 'D' at Brunoy (1 hour 45 minutes) or Yerres (3 hours 30 minutes).

The walk gives us a choice of countless picnic spots, passes a fascinating public farming cooperative, and ends in Villeneuve St Georges at the RER 'D' (zone 4). Trains return to Paris every ten minutes.

Meeting Info. GARE DE LYON, REAR of the platform RER 'D', DIRECTION 'MELUN' at 9:10 for the train at 9:23. It is a 35 minute ride. PURCHASE A ONE WAY TICKET to BOUSSY St. ANTOINE (zone 5).

The GARE de LYON 'D' station can be confusing so leave ample time to identify the proper Quai.

See you on Wednesday!

Bob Levy

Wednesday 29 June to Maisons Alfort

2011-06-27T17:49:00.001+02:00

Dear Hikers,

Next Wednesday, Charlie Crummer and Virginie will lead us on a hike in the Bois de Vincennes and along the Marne to the Veterinary School Museum at Maisons Alfort. Here are their directions.

We will start at Porte Dorée, the northwest entrance to the bois de Vincennes and end at the Maisons Alfort. The reason is that the musée of the École Vétérinaire de Maisons Alfort opens at 14h. Tarif: 7€ including audioguide. At the beginning, in the bois, we can dally and row boats if the group wants.

We will start at 10am at Porte Dorée at the foot of the golden statue just above les cascades.Bring the usual: a picnic lunch, good boots, warm clothing and snow shoes just in case.

Charlie
--

If you need more information for this walk you can contact Charlie at charlie.crummer@gmail.com or Virginie at virginiexue@voila.fr

Wednesday 22 June in the Vexin

2011-06-18T15:46:00.000+02:00

Rabbit Stew Farm, Commeny

Dear Hikers,

Next Wednesday, June 22, Claude will be our leader on a 14 km hike northwest of Paris in the Vexin Français. Here is his information: the early departure from the Gare St. Lazare is due to the rarity of the trains to this destination. So, get up with the birds and have a wonderful hike in a lovely part of Ile de France.

Summer starts on 21 June, time to profit from the longest days of the year. We'll have an early start on a 14km walk in the French Vexin which include part of the ancient Roman road from Paris to Normandy. We'll have a stop at Rabbit Stew Farm in the charming village of Commeny, then return via the Goulines wetlands nature reserve.

Getting there: At the gare St Lazare catch the 8.03 train, direction Gisors, arriving at Santeuil Le Perchay (zone 6) at 8.55.

Getting back: At the gare de Santueil catch the 14.24 train to Paris, arriving 15.25.

Don't forget your hiking gear—from umbrella to sun cream—as well as your picnic and your usual sunny disposition.

Le 21 juin c'est l'été, donc le moment de profiter des plus longues journées de l'année. Je vous propose dès l'aube une randonnée de 14 km dans le Vexin français qui nous fera parcourir une partie de la "chaussée Jules César" ancienne voie romaine entre Paris et la normandie. Nous ferons un arrêt à la "ferme du lapin compote" pour un éventuel ravitaillement dans le charmant village de Commeny avec un retour par une zone humide réserve écologique naturelle.

Départ: Gare St Lazare direction Gisors à 8h03 pour une arrivée à Santeuil à 8h55 (zone 6)

Retour: Gare de Santeuil à 14h24 pour une arrivée à Paris St Lazare à 15h25

N'oubliez pas vos tenues de rando (du parapluie à la crème solaire) votre pique-nique et votre bonne humeur habituelle.

Claude FAURE

01 30 92 04 95

06 84 14 55 35

Etang de la Gouline

Wednesday 15 June from Moret to Montigny

2011-06-12T13:09:00.002+02:00

Alfred Sisley, Moret sur Loing

Dear Walkers,

Following on the heels of our lovely walk in the Fontainebleau Forest last week, we will continue in the region with Daniel leading us. Here is his information:

Many of you enjoyed the hike of June 8. It's not over. Given its success, we'll stay in the region.On Wednesday 15 June we will start from Morêt-sur-Loing (station Môret/Veneux-les-Sablons) and visit the medieval et historical city. Great!

The hike will continue through the nature reserve of the plain of Sorques with a bucolic stroll, possibly accompanied by a flock of dragonflies, along the Loing (river) which will led us to Montigny-sur-Loing, our train station.

Getting there: *Gare de Lyon*, SNCF train GIMO, leaves *10:05*, direction
Montargis, arrives at *Moret les Sablons, zone 6, at 10:47*. We will travel
in the next to last car leaving the Gare de Lyon. (It seems you don't like being in the last one.)

Give yourself plenty of time. Last week problems with the RER A almost caused some hikers to miss the train. Last week it left from Quai J in the Salle Diderot. Remember that there are two sets of platforms at the Gare de Lyon, colored coded blue and yellow. Check the departure panels to know from where our train departs.

Return: from Montigny, also in zone 6. Trains leave about every hour. We will aim for the 16:50 train which arrives at 17:41 at the Gare de Lyon.
----
The easy and splendid walk is 14 km = 3½ or 4 hours. + visit of the city.
Bring along water, some lunch and hiking equipment.
I'm looking forward to seeing you on Wednesday!
----
On the Web:
Pictures. − Google... Moret-sur-Loing... Images for Morêt-sur-Loing.
Maps for a visit of the medieval city. − www.viamichelin.co.uk ... Morêt-sur-Loing.

J.B.C. Corot, Moret sur Loing 1822

Wednesday 8 June in the forest of Fontainebleau

2011-06-04T13:01:00.000+02:00

Dear Hikers,

Next Wednesday, June 8, Prudence and Mary Lynne will lead us in the beautiful Fontainebleau Forest. Here is their information:

Our itinerary, approximately 14 km, will start at the train station of Moret Veneux les Sablons and end at the station of Fontainebleau Avon. We will hike through typical Fontainebleau terrain of rocks (le Rocher d’Avon) and hills with a good dose of flat terrain through the woods. Additional rock scrambling will be possible. At the end of the hike, we will pass through the gardens and woods of the chateau, so that those who wish to may stay and visit the chateau. Those who continue to the station will take a short break along the grand canal, which predated the one at Versailles by 60 years, by the way.

Getting there: Gare de Lyon, train GIMO, leaves 10:05, direction Montargis, arrives at Moret les Sablons, zone 6, at 10:47. We will travel in the last car going out of the Gare de Lyon.

Return: from Fontainebleau, also in zone 6. Trains leave about every half hour. We will aim for the 17:04 train which arrives at 17:41 at the Gore de Lyon.

You will need a picnic lunch, good hiking shoes, and maybe rain protection.

See you on Wednesday!

Prudence: 01 46 26 03 06

06 63 44 60 09, the day of the hike only

Mary Lynne: 01 47 41 98 20 and 06 70 88 18 59

Wednesday 1 June: Mantes and the Vaucouleurs

2011-05-28T13:45:00.000+02:00

The "collègiale" at Mantes la Jolie

Hello IdF hikers,

Next Wednesday, Claude Faure will lead us in and around the historic city of Mantes la Jolie. The magnificent collegiate church by itself is worth the trip, but Claude will also take us along the Seine to the mouth of a tributary, the Vaucouleurs, before heading back to Mantes via the countryside and his hometown of Magnanville. As he explains below, Mantes la Jolie can be reached by either the Gare St. Lazare or the Gare Montparnasse. Please inform Claude if you will arrive from the Gare Montparnasse as that train arrives after the St. Lazare train. You will need a picnic lunch. Here is Claude's information:

Cette randonnée de 15 km et 285 m de dénivelées positives au départ de Mantes-la-Jolie nous fera d'abord parcourir quelques vieilles rues de Mantes au pied de la collégiale. Nous longerons ensuite la Seine jusqu'à "La Vaucouleurs", petit affluent de la Seine que nous longerons une partie de la matinée. Le reste se déroulera dans la campagne mantoise jusqu'à Magnanville où vous reprendrez le bus (un ticket de métro ou mobilis zone 6) pour retourner à la gare de Mantes-la-Jolie.

Départ: gare Saint Lazare à 10h20 en direction de Mantes-la-Jolie (zone 6) où vous arriverez à 10h50 et où je vous attendrai,

...ou gare Monparnasse à 9h43 en direction de Mantes-la-Jolie où vous arriverez à 10 h 56 (merci de me prévenir dans ce cas).

Retour: gare de Mantes-la-Jolie à 17h08 pour une arrivée gare St Lazare à 17h40,

...ou gare de Mantes la Jolie à 16h34 pour une arrivée gare Montparnasse à 17h49

N'oubliez pas vêtements appropriés, pique-nique et bonne humeur habituelle.

Claude FAURE

01 30 92 04 95

06 84 14 55 35

Wednesday 25 May, the lakes of Vincennes

2011-05-24T10:09:00.000+02:00

Lac Daumesnil

Next Wednesday, May 25 Jean Chameroy will lead a walk in the beautiful Bois de Vincennes. Here is his information:

We'll make a tour of the four lakes of the Bois de Vincennes, about 14km. Meet at 10am at the foot of the golden statue at the Porte Dorée metro station, line 8.

You'll need a picnic lunch, water, good shoes, and an agreeable disposition.

See you Wednesday,

Jean

Nous allons faire le tour des quatre lacs du Bois de Vincennes, 14 kms environ. Rendez vous à 10 Heures au pied de la statue doree à la station Porte Doree, Metro ligne 8.

Vous aurez besoin d'un déjeuner pique-nique, de l'eau, des bonnes chaussures, bonne humeur, etc.

A mercredi. Merci. Mon tel portable est: 06 20 00 63 78

Jean

Lac Daumesnil

Sunday 22 May in the valley of the Chevreuse

2011-05-19T18:37:00.000+02:00

The Auberge de la Chapelle at Milon la Chapelle

A 16 km / 10 mile walk beginning and ending at Saint Remy Les Chevreuse (RER 'B'). A truly spectacular walk, and one which should be even more so in later Spring. Forests, chateaux (two), stone bridges and riversides, a gorgeous new trail through the Foret Port Royale, villages, villages, and more villages.

We will begin at St. Remy, head north to the Foret Port Royale and the picturesque (if small) chateau at Chateaufort. The Valley Merancy is horse country; stables, rolling hills, dark forests, rivers, stone bridges, many spots to stop for a leisurely lunch. We follow the new Sentier Merancy through this scenic area to the village Magny Les Hameaux. From there, on to romantic Milon La Chapelle (perfect weekend getaway), through the Foret Du Claireau to the ramparts of the Chateau Madeleine overlooking Chevreuse. We then follow the River Yvette for the return to Saint Remy and the RER 'B'.

We will meet at 9:25 at CHATELET-LES HALLES; the REAR of the platform for the RER 'B', DIRECTION SAINT REMY LES CHEVREUSE. We will take the 9:38 train to Saint Remy. If you wish to join us further down the train-line (St. Michel, Luxembourg ... ), add two minutes for each station south of Chatelet. Trains return to Paris from Saint Remy every 20-30 minutes.

The trails are in EXCELLENT condition. There WAS IN WINTER one stretch of mud, much of which could be avoided. Still, good boots are recommended. There is one brief ascent (midway in the walk) which, for some, might need extra-time. There is one descent near the hike's end which requires some care.

Trains to Paris are every 15-20 minutes from St. Remy.

Bob Levy

Wednesday 18 May at Achères and Corra

2011-05-15T10:22:00.000+02:00

The étang du Corra

This week we will hike with Claude in the Forêt de St. Germain-en-Laye in the morning, and after our picnic lunch he will take us to the atelier of a sculpteur. Here is his information:

Voici les éléments pour la rando de mercredi 18:

Cette randonnée de 11 km au nord de la forêt de Saint-Germain nous ménera à l'étang du Corra où nous pique-niquerons et visiterons un atelier de sculpture.

Aller : RER A TROL direction POISSY à 10h 26 à Châtelet les Halles arrivée à 10h 52 à ACHERES GRAND CORMIER (zone 5)

Retour : RER A à ACHERES GRAND CORMIER à partir de 17h 15 (un train toutes le 10 mn)

Merci de préparer 8 euros par personne pour la visite à me remettre pendant le pique-nique.

N'oubliez pas pique-nique, vêtements tous temps et bonne humeur habituelle.

Je vous retrouverai à la gare d'Achères

Claude FAURE

01 30 92 04 95

06 84 14 55 35 le jour de la rando

Wednesday 11 May from Lozère to Jouy

2011-05-07T11:53:00.000+02:00

The abbey at Vauhallen

On May 11 Bob Levy will lead a hike from Lozère to Jouy en Josas. The hike is 16 km / 10 miles, but as with other Bob Levy hikes, there will be other stations along the way—and corresponding maps and schedules—for those who wish a shorter day. This is a particularly fine hike for photographers.

The hike begins at Lozère on RER B (direction St. Remy), climbs quickly (but briefly) into a lovely wood, exiting into farmland. Just ahead the imposing abbaye de Vauhallen and, facing the abbey, one of the most picturesque farms and circular barns it will be our pleasure to see.

Ahead the village of Vauhallen and its hill-top church, another short climb into stream-lined forests and a long wooded descent into the town of Igny (the first of the gares back to Paris). Continuing on we join the Bièvre and stop for lunch beneath willows, where the river widens into a lake. The next gare at Bièvres is close by.

Onward along the Bièvres to the home of Victor Hugo, the Chateau des Roches, and the lovely village of Vauboyen (the third of our gares). The final kilometers take us to Jouy en Josas for the RER C back to Paris. Jouy also sports a lovely bar with outdoor seating in its garden.

Getting there: Purchase a one way ticket to Lozère (zone 4). We will meet at Châtelet Les Halles and take the 9:25 RER B train, direction St Rémy. For those boarding the RER B further down the line, allow 2 minutes for each station south of Chatelet. We will be in the rear carriage of the train.

For those desiring a shorter day:
IGNY = About 8 km / 5 miles (RER C)
BIEVRES = About 10 km. / 6 miles (RER C)
VAUBOYEN = About 13 km / 8 miles (RER C)
JOUY = About 16 km / 10 miles (RER C)

On our return we will purchase another one way ticket from Jouy en Josas (zone 4) to Paris via Massy Palaiseau. Those who live west of Paris may want to purchase a return via Versailles Chantiers.

The trails should be in fine dry condition but it can change. Bring good shoes, walking sticks (if you use them) for the two brief climbs, and a lakeside lunch.

Bob Levy
09 79 67 70 88

levybob@sbcglobal.net
ral415@gmail.com

Day of the hike:
06 43 45 58 33

Looking forward to seeing you

Bob Levy

Bièvres, the château des Roches

Wednesday 4 May from La Ferté Alais to Le Grand Saussay

2011-05-02T16:12:00.001+02:00

The château du Grand Saussay

- On Wednesday, May 4, we will head south of Paris to walk in some lovely countryside in the departement of the Essonne. Virginie will be our leader. Our hike will be a loop starting and ending at La Ferté Alais.

- The hike, 21 km, will be from La Ferté Alais to Mondeville through fields and then we will head north and west back to the Essonne River on another trail where the terrain is nearly flat. On our way we will pass near by "Le Grand Saussay" a private castle, then the ruins of "la chapelle St-Blaise" and to finish we will walk southward along the Essonne River. There, on each side of the the river, are many lakes and ponds with flora and fauna that the Department of the Essonne is trying to preserve. In fact, these wetlands are some of the best preserved in all of the Ile de France.

- Getting there: We will take the RER D at gare de Lyon at 8:41, Direction Malesherbes to La Ferté Alais, zone 6. Or you can board the train at Chatelet les Halles at 8:36. We will board as usual in the last car.

- Our return will be from La Ferté Alais at 16:42 which arrives at Gare de Lyon 17:37

- As always: have good walking shoes and a picnic lunch

- If you want additional information : Here is my email and my cell phone number:
virginiexue@voila.fr
06 89 96 29 96

The château du Grand Saussay

Wednesday 27 April on the rivière du Roi Soleil

2011-04-24T10:32:00.001+02:00

Etang de la Tour at Vieille Eglise en Yvelines

La Rivière du Roi Soleil

This week our hike will be 17 km through fields, villages and the beautiful Rambouillet Forest from Le Perray en Yvelines to Rambouillet. We will walk along a channel and three ponds which were dug in the 1680’s for Louis XIV. This channel and many others in the region were part of his ambitious plan to divert water from the Eure River for his chateau and fountains at Versailles. That plan was abandoned in 1688 because Louis needed his men to wage war. We will pass through the delightful village of Vieille-Eglise-en-Yvelines before entering the Foret de Rambouillet, another of the former royal hunting grounds. The walk will be on flat terrain.

Not far from our itinerary is a farm, Les Trois Ponts, which some (or all) of us might want to visit, although they are not open during lunch hour except for groups with reservations. Check out their web site.

http://www.3ponts.com/index.asp

Getting there: We will take the 9:33 train from the Gare Montparnasse, train 62477, direction Chartres, to Rambouillet, zone 6. This train stops at the gare de Versailles Chantiers at 9:47 where I will board. I will look for you in the last car going out from the Gare Montparnasse. At Rambouillet we will change trains for a short hop up to Le Perray, arriving at 10:16. There is the possibility of taking the RER C1, direction St. Quentin en Yvelines, to Versailles Chantiers to catch the Montparnasse train to Rambouillet en route.

Our return will be from Rambouillet on the 17:05 train which arrives at Montparnasse at 17:34. I advise purchasing your return ticket in advance.

You will need good walking shoes, rain gear “au cas où” and a picnic lunch.

L’Espace Rambouillet is also not far from our itinerary. Check it out too.

http://www.onf.fr/espaceramb/sommaire/preparer_visite/individuels/@@index.html

If you want additional information about the hike you can email me at the address below. See you on Wednesday!

06 70 88 18 59 mlfich@yahoo.com

01 47 41 98 20

The étang d'Or in another season

Wednesday 20 April to Mont Valérien

2011-04-14T18:43:00.000+02:00

Mont Valérien in 1556

Hope you all enjoyed the short summer and that we will have some sunshine even next week when I plan to walk with you to Suresnes and around the Mont Valerien. If you decide to come along, then please meet me at 10 AM at Pont de Neuilly metro station on Line 1.

I will wait for you from 9.45 on the street level in the middle of the Avenue Charles de Gaulle.

At 10.00 we will start walking, direction Pont de Neuilly and then along the Isle de Puteaux. The walk will last for about 3 hours and you can take the Tram 2 back to la Defense.

As always, have the right clothes, the best walking shoes, something to eat at a picnic and be open to meet new walking friends.

Greetings,

Martina David-Ault

And please keep in mind:

The 'leaders' guide these walks purely as volunteers, with no commercial interest. Therefore they assume no responsibility for any injury or inconvenience which may occur during the walk.

If you have a heart condition, difficulty walking, diabetes or any other condition which would make you unable to take a strenuous walk - again - it is on your own responsibility and judgement. You should be able to keep up with the group which will keep a medium speed.

Wednesday 13 April at Cergy

2011-04-10T12:51:00.003+02:00

The base de loisirs at Cergy

This week Claude will lead us around the ville nouvelle de Cergy in the department of the Val d'Oise. Here is Claude's information:

Une ville à la campagne ou la campagne en ville ? Ce sera à vous de le découvrir lors de cette randonnée de 15 km qui nous fera voyager entre XIIe et XXe siècle.

Départ: RER A3 direction CERGY-LE-HAUT à 9h31 à Châtelet-les-Halles arrivée à 10h17 à Cergy-le-Haut (zone 5)

Retour: RER A3 de Cergy-St-Christophe ou Cergy-le-Haut pour les plus courageux vers 15h30 (RER toutes les 11 mn)

N'oubliez pas d'amener pique-nique, vêtements appropriés et comme d'habitude votre bonne humeur.

Claude FAURE

01 30 92 04 95

06 84 14 55 35

Those who want to read up on Cergy ville nouvelle can check out these web sites:

http://vexin.fr.pagesperso-orange.fr/oise/cergyvillenouvelle.htm and

http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Communaut%C3%A9_d%27agglom%C3%A9ration_de_Cergy-Pontoise

Ile de France Walks at Cergy

Wednesday 6 April at Coulommiers

2011-04-02T23:49:00.000+02:00

In the parc des Capucins

On Wednesday April 6th, Daniel will lead a 17 km walk in the Coulommiers area (Seine-et-Marne). CHEESE! Coulommiers is a cheese from this town and a cousin of Brie.

En ville le parc des Capucins et la Commanderie des Templiers retiendront notre attention. Aux alentours c'est dans les champs et les bois que nous promenerons nos guêtres. Loaf about/lounge around?

Le parcours sera de 17 kilomètres.

We will go, by train, from Gare-de-l'Est, in Paris, to the station of Coulommiers (zone 6).Departure: Gare-de-l'Est 9:15. − Arrival: Coulommiers (terminus): 10:16.

Return: Coulommiers 15:35. − Paris-Est: 16:41, or more likely, 16:35, arriving 17:41.

Bring water, some lunch and hiking equipment.

See U on Wednesday.

If you wish to be informed of eventual changes or cancellations, please give Daniel your cell phone if you have one (home phone if not).

09 50 56 65 26 - 01 45 90 65 26.
Mobile (only the day of the walk) : 06 99 20 70 79.
Email: daniel.perot@free.fr

The gatehouse of the Templars commanderie

Wednesday 30 March in the Forest of Marly

2011-03-27T19:02:00.000+02:00

In Marly Forest

This week Judy and Cecilia will lead us on a lovely 16-17 km walk, (hilly in parts, 5 to 5 1/2 hours), around St. Nom-la-Bretèche, through fields, the Forest of Marly and pretty little villages. We had to do some juggling of dates, and as a result, the Essonne walk planned for next week has been moved to April 27.

Take the 9h33 train, Sils, at the Gare Saint Lazare, direction St. Nom la Breteche, Foret de Marly, which will arrive at St. Nom la Bretèche at 10h12. This train passes through La Defense at 9:42 so it would be possible to take the RER A or Metro line 1 to meet the SNCF train at La Defense. An RER A leaves Chatelet les Halles at 9:22 and arrives at La Defense at 9:32 which is plenty of time to get upstairs to the SNCF banlieue lines.

Return trains from St. Nom are every half hour: 16.37, 17.07, etc...

Cecilia's mobile phone number: 06 45 68 88 05.

See you on Wednesday!!

photo by Christophe Morvant

Wednesday 23 March at Bagatelle

2011-03-19T17:07:00.000+01:00

Hello walkers,

Spring will have officially arrived next Wednesday, March 23. If you would like to come on a walk and admire the first flowers, then meet me at 10 AM at Pont de Neuilly metro station on Line 1. I will wait for you from 9.45 on the street level in the middle of the Avenue Charles de Gaulle.

At 10.00 we will start walking, direction Pont de Neuilly and then along the Isle de Puteaux to the Parc de Bagatelle.

From there we will continue through the Bois de Boulogne to a metro station at around 14.00.

As always: have the right clothes and shoes, water and food (enough for lunch).

Greetings,

Martina

Wednesday 9 March on the Marne to Boissy St Léger

2011-03-02T23:11:00.000+01:00

The Marne at Joinville le Pont

The hike, some 14km or 8-9 miles, will be led by Bob Levy

First along the 'GR des BORDS de MARNE', the walk will take us from Joinville le Pont some 4 km along the river to Chennevières. Here, remaining with the GR, we leave the Marne for a mix of trail and small lanes, through Le Moulin Chennevières and Ormesson to the GR14 and the Parc du Morbras.

A lovely stone bridge, then a 2 km walk along a running stream will bring us to a perfect spot for lunch. Then onward along the GR14, through wooded rolling hills to the Foret de Gros Bois and its Allées Royale and Elizabeth, and finally the town of Boissy Saint Leger.

CONDITIONS

1. For the first 4 km. there a few places for 'technical stops'. There are cafes at approximately 3 km.

2. This hike has been selected in part because of its relative lack of mud. Many trails are partially paved. There are, however, some 2-3 kms where mud might be a minor issue. The right shoes are, as always, essential.

3. With the exception of a flight or two of stairs, the hike is quite level.

MEETING

GARE RER 'A'; JOINVILLE LE PONT. 10:00 A.M. Use SORTIE 1, Avenue Jaurès. We will meet immediately in front of the Gare under an overhang. From Paris trains (Direction BOISSY or La VARENNE) run to Joinville le Pont every 6-10 minutes.

AT THE END OF THE WALK

RER 'A' from BOISSY SAINT LEGER: To Paris trains every 6-10 minutes.

SHORTER WALKS

For those desiring a shorter day, there is the option of leaving the walk at La Varenne (4 miles) or Sucy (6 miles). Maps will be provided from the trail to the RER 'A' in those villages.

In the parc de Morbras

Wednesday 2 March in Boulogne

2011-02-27T15:51:00.000+01:00

Hello all walkers,

Next Wednesday - March 2 - I will lead you on a walk through three parks: Parc de Rothchild in Boulogne, Bois de Boulogne and Parc St. Cloud.

If you like to come along, then please come to the end station of the metro Line 10 - Boulogne Pont de St. Cloud and there go in the front of the train to the exit and then to the right up to the street level. There is a bus station and I will wait for you there from 9.45 on.

At 10.00 we will start with our three hour walk and will return to the same place at 13.30 - having a picnic on the way. (There is a possibility to have lunch in the Cafe des Arts).

As always, wear the right clothes, good walking shoes, water to drink and open to meet new friends.

Greetings,

Martina David-Ault

Mdavidault@gmail.com

01 41 31 00 19

Wednesday 23 February at Versailles or Montmorency: take your pick!

2011-02-21T11:24:00.001+01:00

Snowdrops in the park at Versailles

Good news, this week, February 23, we are offering two hikes, one in the parc du château de Versailles with Martina and the second in the forêt de Montmorency with Mary Lynne.

Versailles:

If you would like to see the millions of snowdrops in the Park of Versailles, then please come along for a walk around the Grand Canal.

Take the RER C5 to Versailles Rive Gauche (end station) and there I will wait for you in the station from 9.45. At 10.00 we will start walking and should be back after 3 hours.

As always, have the right clothes, good shoes, something to eat (weather allowing we have a picnic at 12.00) and water to drink.

And please keep in mind:

The leaders guide these walks purely as volunteers with no commercial interest involved. They assume no responsibility for any injury or inconvenience which may occur during the walk.

If you have a heart condition, difficulty walking, diabetes or any other condition which would make you unable to take a strenuous walk - again - it is on your own responsibility and judgment. You should be able to keep up with the group, which will keep a medium pace.

Greetings -

Martina David-Ault

Mdavidault@gmail.com

01 41 31 00 19

After the walk, you might be interested in seeing an exhibit in the chateau called “Sciences et curiosities à la cour de Versailles”. It has had rave reviews and due to its popularity will be held over until the beginning of April.

http://en.chateauversailles.fr/news-/events/expositions/-en

La Foret de Montmorency

The Forêt de Montmorency is the third of the three great forests in the department of the Val d’Oise, a 30 minute train ride from the gare du Nord. The itinerary is roughly 14 km, about 4 hours’ walking time at a moderate pace. The famous philosopher, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, spent several years in the village of Montmorency and we are told that he had his inspiration for “Rêveries d’un Promeneur Solitaire” in the nearby forest. Our walk will include the 2.5 km “Chemin du Philosophe” the website of which is below.

http://cheminphilo.pagesperso-orange.fr/index_fichiers/brochure%20chemin%202009.pdf

Getting there: We will take the 9:36 suburban train, destination PERSAN BEAUMONT, at the gare du Nord. We will get off at the station Bouffemont Moiselles, zone 5. At 10:06. Our hike will be a loop starting and ending in Bouffemont. The suburban trains at the Gare du Nord are in a separate section (called “surface”) from the long distance trains (grandes lignes) and are located to the far right of the station. We will meet at the head of the quai and sit in the first car from the quai.

Return trains: from Bouffemont every 15 min.: 15:57, 16:11, 16:27, 16:42.

You will need a picnic lunch, good walking shoes (muddy spots) and just in case, rain gear!

If you wish to be informed of any eventual changes or cancellation you can leave your contact information with me. mlfich@yahoo.com

01 47 41 98 20 and 06 70 88 18 59

See you Wednesday!

Mary Lynne

In Montmorency Forest, the château de la Chasse

Wednesday 16 February at Isle Adam

2011-02-12T15:54:00.001+01:00

Isle-Adam, the church of St Martin

Next Wednesday, the 16th, Daniel Perot will lead us in the Forest of L'Isle-Adam in the department of the Val d'Oise (95), hunting grounds of Philippe le Bel, and a jousting ground for François I. Passing successively to the Montmorency, the Condés and then to the Conti in the 17^th c., the Conti princes engaged Le Nôtre to design and create long, straight alleys and intersections for their grand passion – hunting. After the revolution the forest became the property of the state. Here is Daniel’s information:

I propose a walk in the forest of Isle Adam. It has been quite a while since we were last there. After crossing the pont de Cabouille we'll pay a visit to the interesting church of St Martin before setting out for the Chinese Pavillion of Cassan, an 18th-century "folly" supposedly designed by Fragonard. With a thought to the Chinese New Year.

Pour mercredi prochain, je propose une rando dans la forêt de l'Isle-Adam. Il y a un certain temps que nous n'avons pas été à cet endroit. Après avoir traversé the Pont de Cabouille, nous allons visiter l'intéressante église Saint-Martin, et d'aller à la recherche du "Pavillon chinois", une folie du 18eme, dessinée semble t-il, par le peintre Fragonard. Un clin d'œil aù Noùvel An chinois.

We may also visit an enormous 500 year old oak tree, la table de Cassan, le Poteau de la Tour and the Pierre Plate.

Getting there: Paris gare du Nord (surface), 10:13.

Train POVA. Arrival at Isle-Adam-Parmain (zone 5) 11:08.

We'll meet at the beginning of the platform.

Return: Gare de l'Isle-Adam, 16:45. Arrive in Paris 17:34.
No earlier train. Il n'y a pas de train plùs tôt.

Bring your lunch, water and hiking equipment
The walk will last about 4 hours, 16 kilometres.

Looking forward to seeing you.

If you wish to be informed of any eventual changes or cancellations, please give Daniel your cell phone if you have one, home phone if not.

09 50 56 65 26
01 45 90 65 26.

Mobile (only the day of the walk): 06 99 20 70 79.
Email: daniel.perot@free.fr

The Chinese Pavilion at Cassan

Wednesday 9 February, three parks on the Seine

2011-02-06T10:42:00.002+01:00

26 people came on today's walk

Hello all IdF walkers -

Next Wednesday - February 9 - if you'd like to come along for a three hour hike along the Seine, meet me in the RER C station "Javel" at the Pont de Mirabeau. The Metro Station "Javel Andre Citroen" is on the other side of the street. I will wait for you from 9.45 AM. We'll start walking at 10 AM.

The walk leads us across at least three parks: Parc Andre Citroen, Parc des Sports and the Parc de l'Europe on the Ile de St. Germain. At 13.30 we will reach the Pont de St. Cloud at Boulogne-Billancourt which is the end of the walk.

We can have lunch in a Bistro and if you are interested, let me know and I'll reserve a larger table. (Mdavidault@gmail.com)

As always, be well equipped with the right shoes, protective clothes and have adequate water and a snack with you.

Best,
Martina

And please keep in mind:

The 'leaders' guide these walks purely as volunteers, with no commercial interest. Therefore they assume no responsibility for any injury or inconvenience which may occur during the walk.

If you have a heart condition, difficulty walking, diabetes or any other condition which would make you unable to take a strenuous walk - again - it is on your own responsibility and judgement. You should be able to keep up with the group which will keep a medium speed.