Let’s wander in the forest! For an invigorating walk under the centenary trees, an expedition in search of animal tracks or the observation of the treasures of its flora, the forest is a magical place in all seasons. So, for a bath in the forest, check out my selection of 5 forest areas of the department, ranked from closest to furthest from Lille.
Phalempin Forest
The Phalempin state forest is located 20 minutes from Lille. Despite its small size (670 ha), it is a pleasant place to walk among oak, hornbeam, birch, maple, ash and beech trees without having to travel too many kilometers. The forest is also home to wetlands and ponds that will allow you to come across frogs and newts and you can practice a large number of sports and recreational activities.
To discover ICI the map of the Phalempin forest and its various walking paths.
Practical information:
20 km from Lille
Accessible by train
Activities: mountain biking, trekking, geocaching, off-road scooter, tree climbing
Unusual arrangement: Chlorophil’s nests
Marchienne Forest
Located in the Douai region, this 800-hectare forest is relatively recent. In fact, it is only 100 years old and has been completely replanted after the bombing during the First World War. With its 35 km of hiking trails, from the GR 121 to the departmental trails, you won’t want for anything to stretch your legs. But be careful not to set foot in the ponds, there are more than 350 on the estate. The trails are also accessible to mountain bikers and riders.
To discover ICI the map of the Marchienne Forest and its various pedestrian paths.
Practical information:
The property is 19 miles from Lille
Accessible by bus
Activities: mountain biking, trekking, horse riding
Nieppe Forest
Head to the Hazebrouck sector for a walk in the largest forest in French Flanders. Vast 2600 ha, it consists mainly of oak, ash and cherry trees. Many excursion possibilities are at your disposal, signposted or not, on foot, by bicycle and even by canoe.
Discover the itineraries for walks in the forest of Nieppe by ICI.
Practical information:
The property is 28 miles from Lille
Reachable by car
Activities: mountain biking, trekking, canoe
Forest of Raismes-Saint-Amand
Located in the heart of the Shoes-Escaut Regional Natural Park, the Raismes-Saint-Amand-Wallers National Forest extends over 4600 hectares. It is home to many notable sites such as the Goriaux pond, the Aremberg hole and the ancient mining sites of Sabatier and Lavoir Rousseau. There are numerous equestrian, hiking and mountain biking trails.
To discover ICI the map of the Forest of Raismes-Saint-Amand and its various walks.
Practical information:
The property is 31 miles from Lille
Reachable by train then 1 km on foot or by bus
Activities: mountain biking, trekking, horse riding, tree climbing
Deadly Forest
A great forest for 2 main reasons. With an extension of over 9,000 hectares, it is the largest forest massif in the department. It is the only one in the north to host a deer population! With a little patience, many species can be seen here and in September it is enough to listen enough to hear the impressive roar of the deer. In the heart of the wood is the village of Locquignol from where several hiking trails start and where several taverns will allow you to eat. Also not to be missed is the arboretum at the David pond.
To discover ICI the map of the Mormal forest with its various walking paths and addresses for eating and sleeping.
Practical information:
80 km from Lille
Reachable by car
Activities: mountain biking, trekking
Bonus: The Tassonière Wood
A very pleasant little wood located in Bouvines. Ideal for a short walk after work if you live in the area. This 44-hectare natural space offers you an exotic walk or bike ride, thanks to numerous hiking trails.
Take a deep breath and relax. All you have to do is open your eyes and ears to fully enjoy it. You will love !
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