The best walks and hikes around La Villedieu
4.5
(32)
70
hikers
21
hikes
Hiking around La Villedieu offers routes primarily through extensive woodlands and relatively flat terrain. The region features a landscape characterized by forests, such as the Forêt domaniale de Chizé and Aulnay State Forest, with gentle elevation changes. These areas provide a tranquil setting for exploring the natural environment.
Best hiking trails around La Villedieu
- The most popular hiking route is The Forêt domaniale de Chizé – loop, a 6.3 miles (10.2 km) trail that takes 2 hours 36 minutes…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.0
(6)
12
hikers
10.2km
02:37
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
5
hikers
8.36km
02:09
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.5
(2)
2
hikers
10.6km
02:44
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
4
hikers
4.78km
01:13
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
5
hikers
12.0km
03:04
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Super nice motorhome parking space with lots of greenery in the middle of town
0
0
Small village with lovely curiosities, sculptures... To discover!
0
0
The Aulany forest covers approximately 2,000 hectares, shared between Charente-Maritime and Deux-Sèvres. Composed mainly of oaks and beeches, it is home to quite rich flora and fauna. It was also one of the most remarkable beech forests in the region, before the storm of 1999. The massif, under reconstruction, is one of the Natura 2000 sites in Charente-Maritime. You can discover remains from the Neolithic period, particularly around Aulnay.
2
1
A vestige of a prehistoric forest, the Chizé forest extends over more than 3,000 hectares. Very popular with hikers and cyclists, it is crossed by the GR36 and the GR de Pays de la sylve d'Argenson. Mainly made up of beech trees, it is also home to numerous oak trees, including the Emperor's oak tree. More than 250 years old, it measures 27 meters high. Natura 2000 Zone and Natural Area of Ecological Fauna and Flora Interest, the forest is home to numerous mammals, reptiles, birds, butterflies and amphibians.
1
0
The Chizé forest, a Natura 2000 site, is part of the much larger Aulnay-Chizé massif. It is a great place to run in the forest and take a forest bath.
2
0
The Chizé forest, a Natura 2000 site, is part of the much larger Aulnay-Chizé massif. It is not only an ideal place to walk in the forest and take a forest bath, but also the Center for Biological Studies of Chizé, installed in a former military camp, and Zoodyssée, a tourist and educational scientific center with animations , twilight walks, exhibitions and a museum.
2
0
This church was dedicated to Saint Peter (Saint Pierre). Simon, nicknamed Petrus (rock), was a fisherman on Lake Genesareth when he - together with his brother Andreas - was called by Jesus Christ to be a "fisherman of men". According to the Catholic understanding he is the highest apostle, and the two millennia long line of popes - currently Francis - are in his successor. On statues and paintings Peter is almost always shown with two keys in his hand, this attribute refers to the Bible verse in Matthew: “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; what you will bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and what you will loosen on earth will be loosened in heaven ”(Chapter 16, verse 19). Together with Paul, Peter is also known as the "princes of the apostles", their common feast day in the saints' calendar is on June 29th.
2
1
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hiking trails around La Villedieu?
Hiking around La Villedieu primarily features extensive woodlands and relatively flat terrain. You'll find paths winding through forests like the Forêt domaniale de Chizé and Aulnay State Forest, with gentle elevation changes. The landscape is characterized by a tranquil setting of forests, gentle valleys, and agricultural surroundings.
How many hiking trails are available in the La Villedieu area?
There are over 20 hiking routes available around La Villedieu, offering options for various ability levels from easy strolls to moderate hikes.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes around La Villedieu?
Yes, there are several easy trails suitable for families. For instance, the Chizé Forest loop from Villiers-en-Bois is an easy 4.4-mile (7.1 km) path offering a peaceful walk through woodlands. Many routes in the area are designed for gentle exploration.
Can I find circular hiking routes in La Villedieu?
Absolutely. Many of the trails around La Villedieu are circular routes, perfect for returning to your starting point. Popular options include The Forêt domaniale de Chizé – loop and the Aulnay State Forest loop from Maison forestière du Rond-Point.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to see while hiking?
The region is rich in natural beauty, especially its forests. You can explore the vast Chizé Forest and the Aulnay State Forest. Additionally, you might encounter historical sites like the Saint-Pierre Church of Aulnay or the Château de Dampierre-sur-Boutonne, which also features a Baudet du Poitou Donkey Farm.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in La Villedieu?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquil setting of the extensive forest paths, the gentle elevation changes, and the well-maintained routes that offer a peaceful escape into nature.
Are there any moderate difficulty trails for more experienced hikers?
Yes, there are several moderate trails. For example, Knights Templar sculpture loop from Ensigné is a moderate 6.6-mile (10.6 km) hike that offers a bit more challenge while still enjoying the regional landscape.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in La Villedieu?
Given the extensive woodlands, spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for hiking in La Villedieu. The mild temperatures and changing foliage create beautiful scenery. Summer offers shaded paths, while winter can provide a different, serene experience, though some paths might be muddy.
Are the hiking trails around La Villedieu suitable for dogs?
Many of the forest paths and rural trails around La Villedieu are generally suitable for dogs, provided they are kept under control. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in nature reserves or protected areas, and ensure you clean up after your pet.
Is there parking available at the trailheads in La Villedieu?
While specific parking details vary by trailhead, many popular starting points for forest loops, such as those in Chizé Forest or Aulnay State Forest, typically offer designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the tour details on komoot for specific parking information for your chosen route.
What kind of elevation changes can I expect on the hikes?
The hikes around La Villedieu are characterized by gentle elevation changes. Most routes feature relatively flat terrain, making them accessible for a wide range of fitness levels. For instance, a 6.3-mile loop might only have around 38 meters of ascent.
Are there any shorter, easy walks for a quick outing?
Yes, for a shorter and easier option, consider the Camping Car Park – Stream loop from Brioux-sur-Boutonne. This 3-mile (4.8 km) trail is an easy walk, perfect for a quick and refreshing outdoor experience.
Most popular routes around La Villedieu
Most popular attractions around La Villedieu
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
