The best walks and hikes around Nanterre

Nanterre and its surroundings offer a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 200 routes available. These range from leisurely strolls through urban green spaces to more extensive paths along riverbanks and elevated viewpoints.

Yes, Nanterre is very welcoming for beginners and families. Over 125 of the available routes are rated as easy. Parks like Étang de Pêche – Chanteraines Lookout loop from Gennevilliers in Parc Départemental des Chanteraines, or the Saint-Cucufa Pond loop from Rueil-Malmaison, offer peaceful, accessible paths ideal for all ages.

Mont Valérien is a significant natural landmark offering panoramic views of Rueil-Malmaison, Nanterre, and the La Défense business district, particularly from the Terrasse du Fécheray. You can also find the Chanteraines Lookout within Parc Départemental des Chanteraines, and the serene Saint-Cucufa Pond in the Malmaison national forest.

Many routes around Nanterre are designed as loops, perfect for a complete outdoor experience. Examples include the Pièce d'Eau des Cygnes Noirs – Pièce d'Eau des Nymphéas loop from Arrondissement of Nanterre, which explores local waterways, and the Boulogne Forest – Bois de Boulogne loop from Neuilly-sur-Seine, offering a diverse forest experience.

The komoot community highly rates hiking in Nanterre, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 160 reviews. Hikers often praise the variety of urban green spaces, the peaceful riverbanks, and the elevated viewpoints that offer unique perspectives of the Parisian region.

Many parks and natural areas around Nanterre are dog-friendly, though specific rules may apply regarding leashes. It's always best to check local signage or park regulations for the specific trail you plan to visit, such as those in Parc Départemental des Chanteraines or along the Seine.

Yes, Nanterre is well-served by public transport, making many hiking routes easily accessible. Trails around La Défense, such as the La Défense Business District – Grande Arche of La Défense loop from Esplanade de La Défense, are directly connected to metro and RER lines. Many parks are also reachable via local bus services.

Spring and autumn are generally ideal for hiking in Nanterre, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery as foliage changes or blooms. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially in shaded park areas or along the riverbanks. Winter hikes are possible, though some paths might be muddy, and views can be starker.

Absolutely. The Grande Arche of La Défense – La Défense Business District loop from La Défense - Grande Arche provides a unique blend of modern architecture and green spaces. Additionally, walks along the Banks of the Seine, such as the Charming Small City Park – Île de la Jatte Bridge loop from Anatole France, combine natural river views with glimpses of urban life.

Mont Valérien is not only a natural landmark but also holds significant historical importance. You can visit the Mont-Valérien Memorial, a national monument commemorating those who fought for France. For more information on its history and nature walk, you can visit Suresnes Tourisme.

Parc Départemental des Chanteraines is an extensive green oasis featuring diverse tree species, lakes with bird observatories, and an educational farm. Parc Départemental du Chemin de l'Île in Nanterre is known for its wild meadows and basins with aquatic plants, offering boardwalks along the water and areas where local flora and fauna thrive.

Most major parks and trailheads around Nanterre, such as Parc Départemental des Chanteraines and Parc Départemental du Chemin de l'Île, offer designated parking areas. For trails closer to urban centers like La Défense, public parking garages are available, though they may incur a fee.