Apremont and Butte d'Aumont Loop from Senlis

This touring bicycle route is generally rated as easy, making it suitable for all skill levels and fitness levels. It features mostly flat to gently rolling terrain with no significant hills. The loop is approximately 16.8 km long with about 110 meters of elevation gain.

The route is predominantly on paved surfaces, with approximately 7.75 km paved and 6.05 km asphalt. However, it also includes about 2.85 km of unpaved sections, 133 meters of compacted gravel, and small portions of cobblestones and singletrack. While mostly smooth, some parts of the Halatte forest can be sandy. A touring bike with slightly wider tires would be most comfortable for the varied surfaces.

This 16.8 km loop can typically be completed in around 1 hour and 7 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery and landmarks.

You'll encounter diverse scenery and historical sites. Highlights include panoramic views from the Butte d'Aumont, the historic The Apremont Table (a 15th-century stone hunting table), and glimpses of the Château de Chantilly. The route also passes near the Notre-Dame de Senlis Cathedral at the start/end.

The route starts from Senlis. You can find parking options within the town. For detailed information on parking facilities in Senlis, you may check local tourism resources such as chantilly-senlis-tourisme.com.

The route is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also a good option, though some unpaved sections in the Halatte forest might be sandy. Always check local weather conditions before you go.

There are no entrance fees to access the Parc Naturel Régional Oise-Pays de France for cycling. However, as with any natural park, please respect local regulations, stay on marked paths, and practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the environment.

While the route is primarily for touring bicycles, dogs are generally allowed in the Parc Naturel Régional Oise-Pays de France, often on a leash. If you plan to bring your dog, ensure they are comfortable with cycling alongside you and that you adhere to all local leash laws and clean-up regulations.

Yes, this route intersects with several other paths. Notably, it covers sections of the Avenue Verte London ↔ Paris (32% of the route), the Véloroute du Nord : Beaumont-sur-Oise - Beauvais (32%), and the Trans'Oise 10 (Senlis -Chantilly) (28%). You'll also encounter parts of the Via Sancti Martini - Chemin d'Utrecht and the Grand Tour de Paris (04), Montagny-Prouvaire - La Ferté-Milon.

Senlis, as your starting point, offers various cafes and restaurants. While the route itself traverses natural areas, you'll find options for refreshments and meals before and after your ride in Senlis. It's always a good idea to carry water and snacks, especially for the sections within the forest.

Given its 'easy' difficulty rating and largely paved surfaces, this route is generally suitable for families. However, be aware of the short unpaved and gravel sections, which might be a bit challenging for very young children or those on road-specific bikes. Consider the comfort level of your family with varied terrain.