Wednesday 27 March: From the Old to the New in the Yvelines

The Commanderie at Elancourt

A walk from the Old to the New: Neauphle-le-Château to Elancourt following the Elancourt stream.

Distance: 19km

Terrain: several steepish climbs, a bit muddy in a few areas but nothing to worry about! (Stuart cannot compete with Judy where mud is concerned.)

This week's walk takes us from the ancient village of Neauphle le Château to the new town of Elancourt, created in the 1970s. At Neauphle le Château we walk along the Grande Rue, the old road from Paris to Brittany, with its lovely old houses and then descend into the valley passing through the quaint stone villages of Pontchartrain and La Richarderie. We then follow the course of the Elancourt stream and several water-mills before ascending to a path in the woods which takes us to Elancourt. 

I have found a lovely spot next to a small fishing lake for lunch where I can guarantee a seat for everyone. However, I estimate that we will reach here around 13h00 so if you feel that your stomach cannot last this long I suggest you pack a small pre-lunch! 

At Elancourt we thread through the town along its series of lakes and woods. Our target is the 12th century Templar Commanderie with its magnificent church and surrounding park. Currently they are hosting an exhibition of contemporary art and design from the 1930's to recent times which is well worth visiting and it's gratuit! From here it is a short walk to the gare de La Verriere.

Since we don't know if the weather will be like a lion or like a lamb, please come suitably attired and, of course, bring your usual good humour and scintillating conversation! The attached photo is of the Commanderie.

Getting there:

09.58 Gare Montparnasse (DAPO direction Dreux) zone 5
10.31 Villiers Neauphle Pontchartrain
**I suggest we all meet in the last carriage**

Return:

La Verriere => Gare Montparnasse: each hour at '39, zone 5
La Verriere => Versailles Chantier => Gare Montparnasse: each hour at '09
La Verriere => La Defense: 15:09, 35, 50; 16:05, 20, 35, 50

These trains all connect with the RER C at St. Quentin en Yvelines which is the second stop from La Verriere

Best Regards,
Stuart
mobile: 06 19 85 25 56