Attractions and Places To See around Montlhéry - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Montlhéry encompass a variety of historical sites and natural areas. The region features valleys surrounded by greenery and forest paths, alongside the Saclay plateau and the Bièvre River. Visitors can explore various man-made monuments and bridges, reflecting the area's history. This area provides diverse outdoor activities and points of interest.
Best attractions and places to see around Montlhéry
- The most popular attractions is Fauvettes Viaduct, a bridge that offers a viewpoint over a green valley. Originally built in 1913, this viaduct was renovated for leisure activities.
- Another must-see spot is Templars' Bridge, an old bridge with a construction style suggesting it post-dates the Templars. It is part of a pilgrim road and is located within forest paths.
- Visitors also love Obelisk of Saint-Vrain, a man-made monument erected in 1750. This obelisk was built in homage to the work of Cassini, who developed a system for creating the geodesic map of France.
- Montlhéry is known for its bridges, historical sites, and natural areas. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from viewpoints to ancient monuments.
- The attractions around Montlhéry are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 350 upvotes and 140 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
Fauvettes Viaduct
Highlight • Bridge
Built in 1913 for the "Paris-Chartres" line, bombed in 1944, unused, closed, the viaduct was recently renovated for leisure. We see caving groups training there, as well as climbers who practice climbing on the pillars.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Templars' Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
La Troche Quarry
Highlight • Climb
This is an old sandstone quarry, traces of which can be found on the edge of the Saclay plateau, where a whole plateau of industries is currently located.
All that remains of the quarry today is the working face, 5 meters high and approximately 200 meters long. Today it is only used by rock climbing enthusiasts.
In the lower part, approximately in the center, you can see a Romanesque window... but it actually only dates from 2004!
A little history
The exploitation of this quarry has been documented since 1720.
It was mentioned in Napoleon's land registers in 1809.
At the end of the 19th century, the quarry was owned by the Pigeon family, and employed 25 to 30 workers.
Work was interrupted at harvest time because the quarrymen, very often, were also agricultural workers.
"The production was intended for Paris, brought down twice a day to Lozère station from 1867 by carts pulled by 3 horses, loaded with 120 paving stones (around 2 tonnes), and transferred to wagons using an additional track for goods (1891).”
“Before the railway, it took two days round trip for a cart to reach Paris”
The quarry closed its doors in 1937, and today it is more than a souvenir that can be discovered inside Eugène Chanlon Park.
The stone extracted from this quarry is sandstone. These so-called Fontainebleau sandstone and sand banks were formed in the Quaternary era (Stampian period) around 30 million years ago.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Obelisk of Saint-Vrain
Highlight • Monument
This monument was not erected for the completion of work concerning the tracing of the Paris Meridian and the triangulation of Jacques de CASSINI (work continued by his son César-François for the determination of the geography of France).
However, it is nevertheless thought that the place where the obelisk is located could have been a point of one of the local secondary triangles, during the verification of the basic triangulation (1740-1744) in order to increase its precision. DUVAL DE L’EPINOIS being very sensitive to this work, this monument is therefore only a “memorial monument”.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Path along the Bièvre River
Highlight (Segment) • River
The only inconvenience is that it is lined with barriers requiring you to get off the bike.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Montlhéry.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Great view when you are at the top of the viaduct!
0
0
The Old Bridge of Balizy, or the Templar Bridge, spans the Rouillon. Hidden in the heart of the Templar Woods, and surrounded by magnificent forest paths, it is a superb place for a mountain bike ride.
1
2
In the morning, the rocks show blue reflections.
0
0
nice place to take a break and discover the panorama from this viaduct
3
1
I am unable to judge whether this bridge is actually connected to the Knights Templar Order, as described in the highlight title (the exact name would be “Poor Knighthood of Christ and the Solomonic Temple in Jerusalem”). In this case it would have to go back to the 12th or 13th century.
2
0
Listed among the major geological sites since 2007, this former sandstone quarry offers a nice setting for running between rock and sand. The hue of the stone also earns it the name "Blue Rocks".
1
0
Disused railway bridge once used to connect Paris to Chartres, it is now open to the public. The views it offers over the Chevreuse valley and the forest of Bures-sur-Yvette are magnificent. Crossing it while running increases the beauty of the landscape tenfold.
1
0
Hello Radfahrer! Be careful on this route, the path along the Bièvres turns out to be forbidden to cyclists; Pedestrians or joggers will remind you of this with "you can't read the pictograms!?!" Guter Spaziergang!
2
1
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions around Montlhéry?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Fauvettes Viaduct offers a magnificent viewpoint and is accessible via gravel paths, making it a good spot for a family outing. The Obelisk of Saint-Vrain is another family-friendly historical site. Additionally, La Troche Quarry, now part of a municipal park, provides landscaped trails and picnic tables.
What historical sites can I explore in the Montlhéry region?
The region is rich in history. You can visit the Obelisk of Saint-Vrain, a monument from 1750 dedicated to the work of Cassini on France's geodesic map. The Templars' Bridge, though its exact age is debated, is an old bridge believed to be part of a pilgrim road. La Troche Quarry also has a documented history dating back to 1720, with traces of its past as a sandstone quarry.
Are there good places for walking or hiking near Montlhéry?
Absolutely. The Templars' Bridge is surrounded by magnificent forest paths, ideal for walks. The Path along the Bièvre River offers a pleasant route for both walking and cycling, extending for many kilometers. For more structured routes, you can find various running and walking trails in the area, including easy and moderate options. Explore more at Running Trails around Montlhéry.
What outdoor activities are available in Montlhéry during winter?
Many outdoor activities can still be enjoyed in winter, weather permitting. The forest paths around the Templars' Bridge are suitable for winter walks, and the Path along the Bièvre River remains accessible. For cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous routes available, though conditions may vary. You can find options for touring and road cycling at Cycling around Montlhéry and Road Cycling Routes around Montlhéry.
Can I find viewpoints or scenic spots in the Montlhéry area?
Yes, the Fauvettes Viaduct is a prominent viewpoint, offering a magnificent panorama over a green valley. It's a great place to take a break and enjoy the scenery. The region's natural areas, including the Bièvre River and surrounding forests, also provide many picturesque settings for leisurely strolls.
Are there any dog-friendly walks or areas in Montlhéry?
The forest paths surrounding the Templars' Bridge are generally suitable for dog walking, offering a natural environment. The Path along the Bièvre River is also a pleasant option for walks with your dog, though always ensure to follow local regulations regarding leashes and waste.
What are the options for cycling around Montlhéry?
Montlhéry offers diverse cycling opportunities. The Path along the Bièvre River is a pleasant route for cycling, though it has barriers requiring you to dismount. For more dedicated cycling, you can explore various touring and road cycling routes, ranging from easy to difficult. Find detailed routes at Cycling around Montlhéry and Road Cycling Routes around Montlhéry.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Montlhéry?
Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic views from places like the Fauvettes Viaduct, often described as a 'magnificent viewpoint'. The historical significance of sites like the Obelisk of Saint-Vrain and the ancient feel of the Templars' Bridge are also highly valued. Many enjoy the natural settings, such as the forest paths and the peaceful Path along the Bièvre River, for outdoor activities.
Are there any unique or 'hidden gem' attractions near Montlhéry?
While not entirely hidden, La Troche Quarry offers a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial history. It's a former sandstone quarry now used by rock climbing enthusiasts and features landscaped trails. Its geological significance and historical context make it a distinctive spot to explore.
What kind of natural features can I see around Montlhéry?
The Montlhéry region is characterized by valleys, greenery, and forest paths. The Bièvre River flows through the area, offering a pleasant path along its banks. You can also find remnants of natural geological formations, such as the sandstone at La Troche Quarry, which formed millions of years ago.
Is there parking available for attractions like the Château de Montlhéry (or similar historical sites)?
While specific parking details for individual sites like the historic Montlhéry tower are best checked locally, many attractions in the region, such as the Obelisk of Saint-Vrain or the areas around the Fauvettes Viaduct, typically have nearby road access or designated parking areas. It's advisable to look for local signage upon arrival.
What is the best time of year to visit the Montlhéry area for outdoor activities?
The Montlhéry area is enjoyable for outdoor activities throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Even in October, the Templars' Bridge hosts a medieval day, adding a unique seasonal event.
Most popular routes around Montlhéry
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
