Ermenonville, a moorland atmosphere
The Cirkwi brief
Embarking on a journey through the lush, enigmatic paths of Ermenonville's forest offers more than just a walk; it gifts wanderers with a sensory feast. This meticulously curated trail, a creation of the Regional Natural Parks of Île-de-France, is not about racing to the end. It's a doorway to experiencing the whispers of history and nature's nuanced beauty. As your footsteps align with the rhythm of the Earth, you'll find each step unveiling stories and vistas that echo the soul of Ermenonville. Let curiosity be your compass and allow the forest to reveal its secrets, one breath at a time.
Technical Trail Overview
Spanning 6.612 kilometers, this looped hike presents a moderate challenge, with elevations ranging from 73 to 121 meters. Accumulating a positive altitude change close to 100 meters, hikers navigate through diverse terrains, ensuring a continually engaging experience. Markings such as the distinctive yellow sign on an ancient oak or the stone marker, “la pierre sorcière,” guide the adventurers, ensuring an immersive, yet safe, exploration of Ermenonville’s enchanting forest.
Seasonal Tips and Safety
Ermenonville's trail offers unique charms each season, yet preparation is key. Spring and autumn provide cooler temperatures and vibrant forest hues, ideal for photography and leisurely hikes. In summer, the canopy offers a respite from the sun, but hydration and sunblock are crucial. Winter enthusiasts need to be wary of slippery paths. Regardless of the season, sturdy footwear and checking local weather are wise measures. Respect the trail markers and always stay on marked paths to preserve the natural beauty and your safety.
Exploring Ermenonville’s Rich History
Ermenonville, nestled within Île-de-France, teems with historical and cultural significance. Once a canvas for artists and philosophers, its landscape, particularly the serene yet profound atmosphere of the forest, inspired contemplation and creativity. The Saint-Martin Church, with its evolutionary architecture reflecting centuries of history, and the peculiar “Bénitier de Saint-Hubert” stand as testaments to the village’s rich heritage. This route not only guides through natural beauty but also through the corridors of time, celebrating the legacy of human and nature’s intricate dance.
Climate Insights for Optimal Visits
Ermenonville enjoys a temperate climate, making it accessible year-round. However, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are particularly enchanting, offering mild weather and the forest’s full splendor. These periods promise an ideal backdrop for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Summer can be warm, yet the forest's shade provides a cooler alternative. Winters are crisp; snowfall, although rare, transforms the landscape into a serene, frosty wonderland. Timing your visit during these suggested seasons amplifies the magic of Ermenonville’s trails.
Technical informations
6.6 km
|
max. 121 m
min. 73 m
62 m
| |||
Public : Occasional hikers | ||||
Altimetric profile
Starting point
Points of interest
L’église Saint-Martin
Sa construction initiale date du 12ème siècle. Elle a pendant longtemps été une église sans clocher, celui que vous voyez date du XIXe siècle. L’église d’Ermenonville se transforme d’année en année, durant tout le XVIe siècle : réparation de la toiture en 1528, construction d’une nouvelle nef en 1533, cintrage de la nef en 1540, restauration des beffrois et refonte des cloches en 1550. Le parvis a lui aussi subi des modifications, en 1883, par la Princesse Radziwill qui offre à la paroisse un mobilier complet et de nouveaux vitraux. La façade de l’église occupe le côté est d’un quadrilatère : au nord le presbytère, à l'ouest le cimetière, au sud un grand mur qui cache un joli bâtiment. Le long de ce mur se trouvent deux bancs, qui rappellent la présence de "carreaux" (gros blocs de grès) que l’on trouve un peu partout dans le village et dans la forêt d’Ermenonville.
La pierre sorcière
Ce bloc de grés aurait servi d'abri sous roche au mésolithique, à l'époque Tardenoisienne soit 6 000 ans avant notre ère...
L’invisible engoulevent d’Europe
Le Caprimulgus europaeus est un oiseau rare. Il chante au crépuscule et chasse des insectes de nuit. Il est très difficile à repérer, à cause du camouflage que lui confère son plumage couleur feuilles mortes. Visiteur d’été en France, il migre en Afrique en hiver. De la taille d’une tourterelle, il fait son nid dans un creux du sol et y pond deux œufs, couvés de mai à juillet. Il habite les landes à bruyère et les clairières des zones boisées. Son chant est un ronronnement typique, continu, sonore, rapide et dur. Il est émis sur plusieurs minutes et il est audible à 1 km. Il le répète durant des heures du crépuscule à l’aube.
