The best walks and hikes around Longueil-Sainte-Marie

There are over 150 hiking routes available around Longueil-Sainte-Marie, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences and fitness levels. The majority of these are rated as easy or moderate.

Yes, the region is well-suited for beginners and families, with over 70 easy trails. The relatively flat landscape, featuring agricultural fields and small woodlands, means many routes have gentle elevation changes. An excellent option for a shorter, easy walk is the Verberie Ponds loop from PARK Nautic de Verberie (TNV60), which is 2.3 miles (3.7 km) long.

Hike durations vary, but many routes are designed for shorter outings. For example, the Boucquy Chapel loop from Jonquières is about 2.2 miles (3.5 km) and can be completed in under an hour. Longer options, like the Verberie Ponds loop from Verberie, can take around 2 hours 48 minutes for 6.9 miles (11.1 km).

Yes, many of the hiking trails around Longueil-Sainte-Marie are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without needing to retrace your steps. Examples include the Mont Clergé loop from Jonquières and the Château d'Aramont loop from Verberie.

The best times for hiking in Longueil-Sainte-Marie are generally spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is vibrant. Summer offers longer daylight hours, though it can be warmer. Winter hiking is also possible, but trails might be muddy or frosty.

Generally, dogs are welcome on the hiking trails around Longueil-Sainte-Marie. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially when passing through agricultural areas or near wildlife, and to respect local regulations.

The trails offer views of agricultural plains, small woodlands, and river valleys. While hiking, you might encounter historical sites or natural landmarks. Nearby attractions include the impressive Château de Compiègne, the serene Royal Abbey of Moncel, and the Mont Pagnotte viewpoint, which offers expansive views of the surrounding area.

As Longueil-Sainte-Marie is a rural area, parking is often available in village centers, near churches, or at designated small car parks close to popular trailheads. Roadside parking might also be an option in some areas, but always ensure you are not obstructing traffic or private access.

Public transport options to reach specific trailheads directly might be limited in this rural region. It's advisable to check local bus schedules if you plan to rely on public transport, or consider driving to a central starting point.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 170 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil rural settings, the well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of the trails for various fitness levels, making it a pleasant experience for all.

While the region is generally known for its gentle terrain, there are a few routes that offer a bit more challenge, with 3 trails rated as difficult. These might feature longer distances or slightly more varied elevation, providing a good workout for experienced hikers.