Discover the town of Compiègne, its forest and picturesque villages, on a bike.
From 12/21/2009 to 12/31/2010
On entering the forest, you will feel you are in a green cathedral. But you will not be alone. The 15,000-hectare forest is home to abundant and varied wildlife; small animals such as squirrels are first to come to mind. However, the forest also plays host to animals of a rarer kind and you are likely to spot deer, boar and stag.
Just hop on your bike and take the cycle path or go off-piste (for a more random route) to the pretty villages of Saint Jean aux Bois and Vieux Moulin, or to a fairytale castle. A château like a fairytale castle in Picardie? Yes! The château is situated in the parish of Pierrefonds and we have Napoleon III to thank for its magnificence; he had the château restored by Viollet le Duc. When approached from a distance, the château and its magnificent towers cannot fail to impress. Its walls hold many a mystery, and there is real wonder to be experienced in the vaults and their recumbent statues. Light moves across walls and whispered poems echo in chambers, resonating with the mystery that inhabits them. The statues create such a feeling of peace that those admiring them might wonder if they have not fallen under a spell. Who can say?
The day draws to an end and it is time to cycle back through the forest to Compiègne. A time to reflect on the magic and beauty of the forest and its château, sources of peace, wellness and dreams.
Should you not have a bicycle.
Don’t worry; you can hire bicycles at the weekend (Saturdays from 2p.m. to 7p.m. and Sundays from 10a.m. to 7p.m.) at Carrefour Royal (near to the Compiègne racecourse) in “Picardie Forêts Vertes”. During the week, telephone Pierre DARMON on 06 07 54 99 26 to book.
Where to stay near Compiègne ?