The best walks and hikes around Girolles
4.6
(595)
2,536
hikers
138
hikes
Hiking around Girolles offers access to the diverse landscapes of the Fontainebleau Forest, characterized by its extensive woodlands and unique geological features. The terrain includes sandstone rock formations, sand dunes, and numerous viewpoints, providing varied environments for outdoor activities. This area is situated within the "Aire de coopération de la réserve de biosphère du Pays de Fontainebleau," highlighting its natural significance. The region features a network of trails suitable for different hiking abilities.
Best hiking trails around Girolles
- The most…
Last updated: November 4, 2026
4.3
(12)
44
hikers
9.05km
02:27
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.8
(6)
30
hikers
9.86km
02:46
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.8
(5)
29
hikers
5.00km
01:25
110m
110m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.5
(12)
24
hikers
12.7km
03:31
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(2)
13
hikers
12.7km
03:35
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
Next to the Manor, there is the miniature village.
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The Saint Germain de Vault church was built at the beginning of the 16th century to replace a Romanesque building. It goes from a flamboyant Gothic style for its oldest part, the east, to the Renaissance style for the western part. Inside you will find beautiful ancient frescoes of the life of Jesus and magnificent glazing above the altar.
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Magnificent site. Very nice surprise while crossing the country!
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This cave is one of the many caves dug by the Cure. These are perhistoric caves that contain many paintings dating back more than 33,000 years.
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Appears at the top of the hill this elegant Renaissance style building: the Château du Chastenay. It has a turret placed in a corbel on the right, a hexagonal staircase tower in the center. The pediment of its portal is decorated with a sculpted frieze as well as a Jacquaire shell (we are on the way to Santiago de Compostela). The mullioned windows are also richly carved. The presence of a dovecote affirms the lordly character of the place. In principle, only lords, high justices, had one. The number of bowls was regulated according to the surface area of the owner's fiefdom. The pigeon was highly appreciated for its fine flesh and for its droppings, called columbine, which serves as excellent quality fertilizer.
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A first stone bridge was built in 1302. In the 17th century, due to lack of maintenance and not being suitable for vehicles, it was destroyed. The current bridge was a big investment. Completed in 1769, this elegant building is remarkable for its "donkey's back" architecture. It has 3 arches of 10 to 13 m. The triangular-shaped bridge piers facilitated the passage of trains of timber. The stone cross on the bridge was erected in 2000. It is a carbon copy of the one that existed before the French Revolution.
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Please make sure to reserve and pay in advance at www.grottes-arcy.net After paying online, be sure to note the reserved date and entry time! You only receive a payment confirmation from Systempay, without an entry time or date! At the checkout, however, the employees see the names of the online bookings. There are only guided tours that last around 50 minutes. The length of the tour is 450 m. You are not allowed to take photos along almost the entire length of the tour! That's why I couldn't take any pictures of this impressively beautiful stalactite cave. At the end of the tour the ceiling height decreases significantly. This is exactly where prehistoric people left their engravings. These engravings were only discovered in 1990 and were exposed with great effort using micro milling. An approximately 3mm thick layer of debris has been removed, but a fine, transparent layer has been left on the engravings so they are still protected. Only at the end of the tour are you allowed to take pictures of a crystal-clear small lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there around Girolles?
Girolles offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 100 trails available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging routes, ensuring there's something for every hiker.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Girolles?
The terrain around Girolles is quite diverse, characterized by extensive woodlands, particularly within the Fontainebleau Forest. You'll encounter unique sandstone rock formations, and even some sand dunes. Many trails offer scenic viewpoints, notably into the Cure Valley, providing varied landscapes throughout your hike.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hiking trails in Girolles?
Yes, Girolles has several easy trails suitable for families. An excellent option is the View into the Cure Valley – Grotte des Vipères loop from Saint-Moré. This 5 km (3.1 miles) route is classified as easy and takes approximately 1 hour 25 minutes, making it perfect for a leisurely family outing.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Girolles?
Many trails in the Girolles area are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected areas or when encountering wildlife, and to check specific trail regulations before you go.
Are there any circular walks available in Girolles?
Yes, many of the trails around Girolles are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular moderate circular option is the Avallon Clock Tower – Avallon loop from Pontaubert, which spans 11.3 km (7 miles) and takes about 3 hours 5 minutes to complete.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features to see while hiking?
While hiking around Girolles, you'll be immersed in the diverse environments of the Fontainebleau Forest, known for its unique sandstone rock formations and scenic viewpoints overlooking the Cure Valley. For specific points of interest, consider visiting the Notre-Dame Church of Saint-Père or the historic town of Avallon, which are nearby attractions.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Girolles?
The hiking trails in Girolles are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers often praise the extensive woodlands, the varied terrain including unique rock formations, and the beautiful scenic viewpoints, especially those overlooking the Cure Valley.
Are there any moderate trails with good views?
Absolutely. The View into the Cure Valley – Great Cave of Arcy loop from Saint-Moré is a fantastic moderate route. This 12.7 km (7.9 miles) path offers stunning views into the Cure Valley and involves an ascent of 216 meters (710 feet), providing a rewarding experience.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Girolles?
Girolles offers beautiful hiking opportunities throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer, while winter hikes offer a different, often serene, experience in the woodlands.
Are there any cafes or restaurants near the hiking trails in Girolles?
While Girolles itself is a small locality, the nearby towns of Pontaubert, Saint-Moré, and Avallon offer various amenities including cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can refuel after your hike. These towns are often starting points or easily accessible from many trails.
Is there public transport access to the hiking areas around Girolles?
Public transport options to specific trailheads directly from Girolles might be limited. However, major towns in the vicinity, such as Avallon, often have better public transport links. From these towns, you might need to arrange local transport or drive to reach the more secluded hiking areas.
Where can I find parking for hiking in Girolles?
Parking is generally available near the starting points of many popular trails, especially in or around the villages like Pontaubert and Saint-Moré, which serve as common access points for the region's hikes. It's advisable to check specific route details for designated parking areas.
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