The best walks and hikes around Les Ulis

There are over 35 hiking routes in the Les Ulis area, offering a variety of experiences from gentle riverside paths to more challenging forest trails. The komoot community has recorded 38 distinct tours in the region.

The terrain around Les Ulis is quite diverse, featuring extensive green spaces like the North and South Parks, riverine environments along the Yvette, and forested areas such as the Forêt de Gif-sur-Yvette. You can also find unique geological sites, including old sandstone and sand quarries, and varied topography with sections on the Saclay plateau and in the Yvette valley.

Yes, Les Ulis offers a good selection of easy hiking options. Out of the nearly 40 routes available, 24 are classified as easy, making them suitable for casual walkers or those looking for a less strenuous outing. An example is the Fauvettes Viaduct – The Tunnel loop from Saint-Jean-de-Beauregard, an easy 3.4-mile (5.4 km) trail.

The hiking trails in Les Ulis are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 750 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse scenery, well-maintained paths, and the blend of natural and historical interest found along the routes.

Absolutely. The region is rich in water features. Many trails follow the Yvette river, such as "La Promenade de l'Yvette," and you can explore areas with lakes like the North Park or the Bassins de Saulx et de Balizy. For specific points of interest, consider visiting Saclay Pond or the Ponds of Parc des Côtes Montbron.

Yes, Les Ulis offers trails that highlight interesting geological formations. You can explore the old sandstone quarry at Bois de la Troche, known for its steep staircases, or discover the old sand quarry featured in the Bois Persan – Old Sand Quarry loop from Les Ulis. These sites provide a unique blend of nature and local history.

Many of the easy and moderate loops around Les Ulis are suitable for families. Trails that feature diverse scenery, like those through the North Park with its lakes and woods, or shorter loops such as the 8 May 1945 Roundabout – Plaque history of Bures loop from Orsay, are often good choices for outings with children.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many of the hiking trails in the natural areas around Les Ulis, especially in the forests and along river paths. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, particularly in protected areas or where wildlife might be present. Specific rules may apply in certain parks or nature reserves.

Yes, many of the hiking routes around Les Ulis are designed as circular loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Beautiful tree – Forest Trail loop from Orsay and the Forest Trail – Sand in the forest loop from Bois Persan, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps.

Beyond the trails, the region offers several interesting attractions. You could visit the historic Buc Aqueduct (arcades), explore the Mirage IIIR Fighter Jet Monument in Buc, or enjoy the peaceful Châtenay-Malabry Greenway. The wider Vallée de Chevreuse Regional Natural Park is also nearby, offering châteaux and lush forests.

Yes, Les Ulis demonstrates a strong commitment to its natural environment. The town participates in the "Territoires engagés pour la nature" program, which highlights its efforts in preserving and enhancing local biodiversity and green spaces. You can learn more about this initiative on the OFB website.

The diverse topography of Les Ulis, including the Saclay plateau and the Yvette valley, offers various scenic spots. Trails that ascend to elevated areas or pass through the Forêt de Gif-sur-Yvette often provide pleasant views of the surrounding landscapes and natural features. The North Park, with its lakes and woods, also offers picturesque settings.