Sunday 22 May in the valley of the Chevreuse

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