Carnelle Forest

Located to the north of Paris, Carnelle Forest is the highest point of the Val d’Oise department, offering exceptional views and scenery for you to explore as you traipse through the heart of the Regional Natural Park Oise - Pays de France.

This hilltop forest consists mainly of chestnuts, beeches and oak trees, and is one of the three major forests in the department, along with Montmorency Forest and Isle-Adam Forest. Several other remarkable plant species have been identified there, including the royal fern, making this a 975-hectare island of greenery in the heart of the countryside, 25 kilometres from Paris. As for wildlife, the forest is home to many birds, including the common buzzard, as well as amphibians (common frogs) and mammals (deer).

Along the way, be sure not to miss the site of the Pierre Turquaise. This megalithic structure is a testament to the history of Carnelle Forest, and is known as one of the most important prehistoric monuments in the Île-de-France region. The very name of this forest comes from the Celtic word “carn”, meaning “stone”. Another historic vestige is the feudal mound. Capping off at 210 meters, it was used by inhabitants in the Middle Ages to monitor the valley and protect themselves from possible attacks.

Take advantage of the 30 km of waymarked trails (including GR1 and PR 16) and the 21 km of bridle paths to explore your surroundings during your family walks, or even have a picnic near its two lakes: “Blue Lake” and “Little Lake” (careful, no swimming). Children can use the play areas to run around and exercise before you get back on your journey.