Imagine a trail where every step transports you through the lush canopy of Mormal forest, designed by Nord Tourisme for a dynamic spectrum from families to seasoned hikers. This picturesque route, marked by yellow, unveils the beauty of the region's bocage belt and internal forest pathways with every season offering new discoveries. While navigating the tranquility of nature, preparedness with waterproof footwear becomes key to an enjoyable journey as most of the year, part of the adventure leads you through damp terrains, ensuring an immersive experience into the heart of nature’s marvels.
This well-thought-out trail spans approximately 5.9 kilometers, with the highest elevation reaching 166 meters and dipping down to a minimum of 149 meters. The relatively mild cumulative climb and descent total 29 meters each, offering a leisurely yet engaging trek. Its strategic layout includes both forested paths and asphalt sections, the latter being car-free except for the stretch between "du Quesne à Maronnes" and "David" crossroads, providing a balanced mix of terrains for walkers.
For an optimal experience, wearing waterproof footwear is advisable throughout the year to navigate the occasionally wet pathways comfortably. In spring and summer, the trail’s flora is in full bloom, offering vibrant displays of nature. Conversely, autumn and winter present a serene landscape of frost-clad trees and tranquil forest sounds. Always stay on the marked yellow trail to ensure safety and conservation of the area. Remember to bring water and possibly a light snack, especially during warmer seasons.
Preux-au-Bois, nestled within the region of Nord, boasts a rich tapestry of history intertwined with the natural beauty of the Mormal forest. This town, and its surrounding territories, sit at the heart of an area steeped in cultural heritage, offering insights into the past lives and traditions that shaped this part of France. Walking through this trail not only connects one with nature but also with the historical essence that the bocage belt and its ancient trees hold – a reminder of the centuries-old relationship between man and nature.
The climate in Preux-au-Bois is classified as oceanic, with mild temperatures prevailing throughout the year. Rainfall is distributed evenly, allowing for trail exploration in all seasons. However, for the driest and most comfortable hiking conditions, visiting between May and September is recommended. During these months, you are less likely to encounter muddy paths, and the forest’s biodiversity is at its peak, making it the perfect time to explore the enchanting trails of Preux-au-Bois.
5.9 km
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max. 165 m
min. 147 m
16 m
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Styles : HikingDiscoveryForest Public : FamilyOccasional hikers |
Depuis le parking de l’étang, dirigez vous vers l’église. Poursuivez tout droit, passez devant l’ancien bureau de poste puis de suite prenez la rue de la Fontaine — en impasse. Au bout, empruntez à droite le chemin encaillouté puis le premier “cache”.
Montez la route à gauche et, dans le virage, obliquez à droite sur la rue de la Grimpette. Ce sentier bordé de charmes têtards aboutit à une petite route. Notez dans la pâture l’abreuvoir automatique pour les bovins. Poursuivez à droite jusqu’à la forêt face à un château d’eau.
Tournez à gauche, et au bout de la route, prenez à droite. Au carrefour suivant, obliquez à gauche sur le sentier commun au GR 122 (sentier de la maison forestière), balisé blanc sur rouge.
Continuez à droite. Après la parcelle 820, virez à droite.
A la parcelle 809, poursuivez à gauche et, à la parcelle 810, à droite. Sortez de la forêt et prenez en face la rue de Landrecies. A l'intersection, descendez à droite la ruelle d’Avignon. En bas, retrouvez à gauche le parking de l’étang.