Regional Natural Park Oise - Pays de France

Just a few kilometres north of Paris, discover a protected natural area made up of vast expanses of trees perfect for nature getaways and rejuvenation.

Explorations in nature…

Straddling two departments and two regions, the Oise-Pays de France Regional Nature Park is a protected green space consisting mainly of forested areas over 20,000 hectares between Picardy and Île-de-France. The wooded sections contain varieties of large trees such as oaks, beeches and hornbeams that give shade to the hazelnut, holly and hawthorn that grow below.

In addition to its lush forests, the park's landscapes are packed with a wide variety of environments, including calcareous grassland, moors and wetlands that are prime habitat for local wildlife. The small and large animals that live in the area are counted and protected. If you are discreet and attentive on your walk, you may come across roebuck, does, foxes, badgers, owls, bats, spiders and other insects.

The nature and variety of plant species create bucolic rural landscapes made up of forests, rivers, ponds and meadows bordered by cultivated fields and scattered with charming little villages.

…culture depending on one's taste

The Oise-Pays de France Regional Nature Park has a rich history and is home to many sites of national interest that are worth a visit. The park showcases the legacy of the former inhabitants of this area who left traces of their passage, from the Sylvanectes Gauls to third-century Romans, as evidenced by the menhirs, arenas and oppidums left behind. Man's presence was then recorded in other constructions that evolved over the centuries, such as Romanesque and Gothic churches and then abbeys which can still be viewed today.

Visitors can admire the prestigious Chantilly château and its large stables, the royal city of Senlis, Chaalis and the splendid Royaumont abbey built by Saint Louis and whose former cloister, park and gardens are open to the public.

The history of the nature park is also closely linked to horseback riding. Its sandy soil makes it an ideal place for equestrian activities. So it is only natural that Chantilly hosts major horsemanship events that are acclaimed around the world, as well as trail rides.

Leisure activities for the whole family

The park has many facilities for you to engage in various sport and outdoor activities at the equestrian centres or water sport complexes.
Families can treat themselves to days of fun at the amusement parks, such as Mer de Sable, Parc Asterix and Sherwood Parc for 1,001 outdoor adventures.

Golf enthusiasts can test their skills on golf courses such as Mont Griffon with its hilly 18-hole course.

Numerous rambling paths allow you to enjoy great walks along more than 1,000 km of hiking trails (integrated with national and regional trail systems) in expansive forests, including Halatte, Chantilly, Ermenonville and Carnelle.

During your visit, take time to discover and taste the products of the local terroir thanks to farmers at the park selling their vegetables, fruit, honey, farm products, dairy products and speciality foods.

Organise your next nature escape in the park at the Maison du Parc located in the château de la Borne Blanche in Orry-la-Ville. Everything you need to get your dose of oxygen on your next weekend in the Paris Region! And if you're in search of ideas for your stay, browse our guide An active weekend in the Regional Natural Park Oise - Pays de France.

Discover the Regional Natural Park Oise - Pays de France through one of the treasure hunts in the Paris Region Adventures application specially designed for families and downloadable free of charge.