PR5 - Georges Valbon park
Description
PR5 is an urban hiking path crossing the Georges Valbon departmental park in La Courneuve, in the Parisian region. It will take you 3h30 to walk along this 8 miles path which follow several Grande Randonnée (GR) trails from Six-Routes crossroads in La Courneuve.
Technical informations
13 km
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max. 67 m
min. 30 m
121 m
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Styles : HikingBalade Public : Occasional hikersExperienced hikers Theme : Patrimony | ||||
Altimetric profile
Starting point
Steps
Enter the park through the Montjoie gate
From Six-Routes crossroads, take the avenue Roger-Salengro to enter the park of La Courneuve.
To the GR® 655 (the way of Saint James)
Take a left on the path facing the equestrian center and keep walking to the intersection of GR® 655 (The way of Saint James) and GR® Pays de la Ceinture Verte d’Île-de-France.
Join the basilica Saint-Denis.
Keep walking and take GR® 655 and GR® de Pays paths. By the alley on the right, join the basilica Saint-Denis.
Leave the way of Saint james
Turn left and leave GR® 655.
Cross again GR® 655
Go straight forward and cross again GR® 655 and GR® de Pays de la Ceinture Verte d’Île- de- France.
To Haricot pond
Keep left and keep walking to Haricot pond (étang Haricot). Follow the yellow marking.
To "Pont des Iris"
Skirt the pond by the left and go straight to pont des Iris (bridge)
To the "Belvédère"
Take a left turn and cross pont des Iris and keep left to avoid the lake. Go straight to the belvedere.
Round path
Just before the "Maison du Parc", follow the left trail to the round path. Go straight on the left, reach the refreshment stall and turn left on the large path.
"Théâtre de verdure"
Take a right and follow the right path in direction of "Théâtre de verdure". Take the left path going down .
To the equestrian center
Take the right path to the equestrian center.
To the headtrail
Go back to the headtrail and to the T1 tramway.
Data author
The Cirkwi brief
Nestled in the heart of urban hustle, Georges-Valbon Park is not just a green expanse, but a journey through diverse landscapes and a testament to ecological richness. This sprawling park, carefully curated by FFRandonnee Seine-Saint-Denis, is a splendid mix of scenic views over Paris, diverse vegetation, and a series of water features that are both soothing and visually captivating. As you explore, you're embraced by an atmosphere that oscillates between serene tranquility and vibrant biodiversity, making every step an exploration and every sight a discovery. A gem waiting to be explored, this park offers a recalibration of the senses amidst the urban sprawl.
Technical Insights and Lengths
Spanning 12.5 kilometers with an elevation range from 30 to 67 meters, the trail through Georges-Valbon Park presents a positive altitude variation of 121 meters, rounded off in both ascent and descent. This provides a moderately challenging yet accessible opportunity for enthusiasts of all levels. The yellow-marked trail ensures navigational ease, guiding walkers through the park's breathtaking landscapes and ecological diversity. Authored by FFRandonnee Seine-Saint-Denis, this loop is meticulously designed for both casual strollers and keen hikers aiming to experience the park’s natural and man-made beauty.
Seasonal Tips for Park Visitors
Regardless of the season, Georges-Valbon Park offers distinct experiences. Spring and autumn, with their mild temperatures, are ideal for exploring the vast biodiversity and enjoying the park's lush landscapes. However, visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes for the trail and carry water, especially during summer's warmth. Winter, while colder, still invites with a stark beauty but prepare with warm clothing. Always respect the park's habitats by staying on marked paths to protect the flora and fauna, and remember to check local weather advisories before planning your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
La Courneuve: A Historical Overview
La Courneuve, housing the splendid Georges-Valbon Park, boasts a rich tapestry of history interwoven with France’s industrial, cultural, and ecological narratives. Once an industrial powerhouse, it has transformed into a green sanctuary within the urban landscape of the Seine-Saint-Denis department. This transition represents a broader trend across Europe where post-industrial spaces are reborn as areas of natural beauty and environmental importance. Georges-Valbon Park, evolving from a project conceived in 1934 to its completion in 2003, stands as a symbol of ecological restoration and community rejuvenation, underlining the region’s dedication to balancing urban development with environmental stewardship.
Climate Insights for Optimized Visits
La Courneuve, like much of the Île-de-France region, features a temperate oceanic climate. Winters are cool with occasional frost, while summers are pleasantly warm, rarely becoming excessively hot. This climate makes Georges-Valbon Park a year-round destination. However, for those seeking the full vibrancy of the park’s flora and fauna, late spring through early autumn offers the most rewarding experience. These months provide a perfect backdrop of mild to warm temperatures, encouraging outdoor activities and exploration. Always check the latest weather forecasts before your visit to ensure the best possible experience.