Make time for family activities together and enjoy some precious bonding time in wild nature as you explore safe, family-friendly cycle paths through one of the largest forests in all France.
Less than three hours from London and a short hop from Calais, France has cycle routes perfect for family days out amidst lovely scenery and wonderful views.
With its mainly flat, traffic-free routes, the Forêt de Compiègne is an ideal spot for outdoors activities for children of all ages. Slow down and relax as you feel the fresh air in your lungs and the wind on your skin. Being up-close with nature stimulates your creativity while making you feel pleasantly tired, and cycling itself is as good for the mind as it is for the body. And unlike in a car, exploring by bike brings it home to you that it’s all about the journey, not the destination, and about spending quality time together as you share special experiences and emotions during your family holidays in France.
The forest of Compiègne: the power of trees and fresh air
Start your cycle route in the forest of
Compiègne at the Carrefour Royal, near the
Château de Compiègne. A few turns of the pedals and you’ll be filled with the sensation of freedom. Breathe in deeply and enjoy this pure air, which has 11,500 times fewer germs than London shops! Your exploring will take you to the 750-year-old Saint Jean oak (just follow the ‘Le chêne Saint-Jean’ sign from Rue des Meuniers in Saint-Jean-aux-Bois). Put your arms around this remarkable specimen – it will do you good and make the kids laugh too! See if you can spot a deer or two, and listen out for birdsong and leaves rustling in the breeze.
Driving to France means you can bring your own bikes, or there are bike hire firms in the lovely town of Compiègne. Vincent Penot of Picardie Forêts Vertes, for instance, can suggest family cycle routes in the forest of Compiègne. One option is to take a circular route from Compiégne to explore ‘Merlin’s Castle’ — as the fairytale-like Château de Pierrefonds appeared in the BBC drama. Pick up picnic supplies at Pierrefonds’ Boulangerie Pâtisserie Bigot and amble around this pretty town with its lake with swan-shaped pedaloes.
Where to stay in Pierrefonds or around?
You can stay at Pierrefonds’ Camping le Cœur de la Forêt, where quirky accommodation includes La Cachette de Fredo, a Hobbit-inspired wooden cabin sleeping five or in a B&B family room near Pierrefonds.
Other family-friendly cycle routes
