Forest of Compiègne, walks, itineraries

Name: Hotel de Harlay
Address: 3 rue de Harlay 0344230150 contact@hotel-compiegne.net, Compiègne, 60200, FR
Telephone: +33344230150
Price range: $$

The pleasure of a deep breath, when the trees silence everything else.

A stone's throw from the city

Forêt de Compiègne, a breath of fresh air for your stay

As soon as you leave the center, you enter one of France’s most beautiful hardwood forests. France’s third-largest state-owned forest, the Compiègne forest covers some 14,485 hectares and, together with the Laigue and Retz forests, forms a 32,000-hectare forest complex.

Its tall beech and oak trees provide a rare sense of space, calm and freshness. We come here to walk, run, cycle, observe the light, and be surprised by an imperial perspective or a pond at the bend in the path.

The decor of kings and emperors

Why visit Compiègne Forest

Because here, nature and history are in constant dialogue. You can start with the allée des Beaux-Monts: a 5 km ribbon linking the forest to the château, created in the 19th century and ending in a belvedere with a spectacular view of Compiègne.

Then let yourself be guided by forest roads and villages like Vieux-Moulin or Saint-Jean-aux-Bois, or set off on a mountain bike loop that combines ponds, abbeys and viewpoints.

This activity always works: an energizing morning, a soothing late afternoon, or a simple family outing.

Take advantage of our no-questions-asked service

Practical information, access, itineraries, tips

Access: the forest begins at the gates of Compiègne, with easy access from the town center and the château area.

Itineraries: to choose a walk to suit your level and duration (1 hr, 2 hrs, half-day), the official Compiègne-Pierrefonds itineraries are an excellent starting point.

Don’t miss: the Beaux-Monts walkway and lookout point, ponds and forest trails.

Tips: bring suitable footwear, water and follow the signs; when cycling, keep to a moderate speed in shared areas.

Sleep peacefully, stay connected

17 rooms, one idea: your comfort

Spacious, air-conditioned rooms. Plush bedding, private bathroom, flat-screen TV, minibar and reliable wifi.

Whether you’ve come for a night in between appointments, a weekend away for two, or a family getaway, you can put your things down and relax. It’s simple: at Compiègne, you visit better when you sleep well.

The double

La single

The triple

The family

Everything you need to know before heading out into the forest

The answers before you even ask the question

How close is Compiègne Forest to the city center?

Yes. It starts at the gateway to the city: you can easily reach the first alleys from the castle area and the center of Compiègne.

What's the best "panoramic view" ride?

The allée des Beaux-Monts is a must: it leads to a belvedere offering a remarkable view of the forest and château.

Can you cycle through the forest of Compiègne?

Yes. The forest is criss-crossed by numerous paths and cycle/ mountain bike routes; to choose a suitable route, use the official Compiègne-Pierrefonds itineraries.

How long will it take you to enjoy it?

Allow 1 to 2 hours for a simple stroll, and half a day if you combine views, ponds and forest villages.

Is it suitable for families?

Yes. Long paths and short loops are well suited to family outings; choose an easy route and remember to bring water and snacks.

Immediate immersion

Iconic landscapes

For all

Living history