31. Rond de Beuvron Trail – Montfort-sur-Risle (27290)

This route invites walkers to immerse themselves in the Montfort State Forest, a vast 2,000-hectare woodland stretching across the slopes on the left bank of the Risle Valley. Highly undulating and largely covered with coniferous trees, this forest managed by the French National Forestry Office (ONF) offers a shaded and refreshing setting. Four visitor areas, including Rond de Beuvron, provide convenient access to the many walking and horse-riding trails listed on the map published by the Pont-Audemer Val de Risle Community of Municipalities in partnership with the ONF (available from the tourist office).

Before entering the forest, the route passes through Montfort-sur-Risle and its medieval ruins. The moats and lower courtyard of the 11th-century castle, carefully cleared by volunteers from the Montfort Culture Patrimoine association, can be visited freely and offer a glimpse of the former power of this fortified site overlooking the valley.

Montfort is also a stop on the pilgrimage route linking Rouen to Mont-Saint-Michel, known as the Saint Michael’s Way.

Deep forest, medieval history and the spirituality of ancient pilgrimage routes come together here in an unexpected combination.

A rich and refreshing forest escape.