
This route unfolds almost entirely beneath the canopy of the Montfort State Forest, a vast 2,000-hectare woodland covering the slopes on the right bank of the Risle Valley.
The trail is distinctly hilly and reveals a rich variety of trees and forest landscapes. The diversity of species and the age of the woodland create ever-changing atmospheres along the way, from light-filled high forests to denser, more mysterious undergrowth. It is a forest best explored at a leisurely pace, allowing visitors to appreciate its seasonal transformations.
Starting from the Saint-Vincent Recreation Area in the commune of Glos-sur-Risle, walkers enjoy direct access to the heart of the forest. A map showing all hiking and horse-riding routes within the state forest is available from the Pont-Audemer Val de Risle Tourist Office.
The route also follows part of the Saint Michael’s Way, a historic pilgrimage route linking Rouen to Mont-Saint-Michel. Montfort-sur-Risle was one of its traditional stopping points, reminding visitors that these forest paths once served not only as routes of travel but also as paths of faith and spirituality.
A true forest immersion, where woodland, silence and ancient pathways come together in perfect harmony.