The best walks and hikes around La Chapelle-Viel
4.5
(34)
234
hikers
33
hikes
Hiking around La Chapelle-Viel offers access to diverse natural landscapes within the Orne department of Normandy. The region is characterized by tranquil forests, bocage countryside, and rolling hills, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. Proximity to the Perche Natural Regional Park, Écouves Forest, and Perseigne Forest ensures a range of environments for hikers. These areas feature wooded paths, clearings, and varied natural environments, with the Écouves Forest reaching 413 meters at the Signal d'Écouves.
Best hiking trails around La Chapelle-Viel
…Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.7
(7)
39
hikers
8.51km
02:15
70m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
38
hikers
4.25km
01:07
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.6
(5)
25
hikers
10.8km
02:47
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
21
hikers
9.40km
02:25
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
4.00km
01:02
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. 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
Called La Trappe, this abbey from 1122 was the cradle of a reform of the Cistercian order in 1664, creating the Trappist order.
0
0
A very beautiful abbey where the Trappist monks are still active. Cyclists and hikers can fill their canisters and water bottles at the available and free water point.
0
0
The Abbey of Notre-Dame de la Trappe is a working monastery, located in Soligny-la-Trappe. Born in the 11th century in the short-lived congregation of Savigny, he joined the Cistercian order like his mother abbey in 1147.
0
0
Spiritual home of Trappist monks, this abbey and monastery have had a tumultuous history. You will appreciate the most beautiful doors at the entrance of the monastery when you run past.
2
0
Spiritual home of Trappist monks, this abbey and monastery have had a tumultuous history. You will appreciate the most beautiful doors of the monastery when you pass by.
2
0
Active monastery founded in the 11th century which is home to the famous Trappist monks. While the abbey of La Trappe was faced, like most monasteries, with a decline in monastic fervor, it was refounded in 1660, following a stricter reading of the rule. This reform is originally called “of the Strict Observance”, but more commonly called “Trappist” in homage to the abbey which gave birth to it. Trappist life is a form of monastic-type religious life, lived under the rule of Saint Benedict (5th century), father of monks in the West. It is characterized mainly by a life voluntarily led apart from the world, in order to favor prayer. This punctuates the day of the monk who goes to church seven times a day. It is also a life of work, rather manual (about six to eight hours a day). It is also a path of asceticism marked by obedience to an abbot or a prior. In addition to obedience, celibacy, sharing of goods, silence, vigils, and fasts, the path of the Trappist monk is shaped by the community where he chooses to put down roots. This Trappist life combines solitude and community life. Everything the monk lives, he lives in the same momentum with other brothers with whom he prays, eats, works, reads and meditates on the Word of God. Note: to refresh yourself, you can take advantage of the presence of a fountain offering excellent quality spring water offered by the monks.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of hiking trails can I find around La Chapelle-Viel?
The region around La Chapelle-Viel offers a diverse range of hiking trails, primarily characterized by tranquil forests, rolling hills, and the distinctive 'bocage' countryside. You'll find paths suitable for various abilities, from leisurely walks to more moderate expeditions through areas like the Perche Natural Regional Park and the extensive Écouves Forest. There are over 25 routes available, with 11 easy and 15 moderate options.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
Yes, there are several easy trails perfect for families. One popular option is the Étang d'Orainville loop from Bresolettes, an easy 2.6-mile (4.3 km) path that circles the Étang d'Orainville, offering a pleasant and accessible experience.
What natural features or landmarks can I expect to see while hiking?
Hikers in the La Chapelle-Viel area can explore significant natural features such as the vast Écouves Forest, which includes the highest point in Normandy, the Signal d'Écouves. You might also encounter granite chaos formations and picturesque views over the forest. Additionally, the region is home to the peaceful Perseigne and Multonne Forests, offering diverse landscapes. For specific points of interest, consider visiting the Saint Bernard Fountain of La Trappe Abbey or the Soligny-la-Trappe Abbey.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, many of the trails around La Chapelle-Viel are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A notable example is the Abbaye de La Trappe — loop in the PARC NATUREL RÉGIONAL DU PERCHE, a moderate 5.3-mile (8.5 km) trail that explores the Perche Natural Regional Park.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in La Chapelle-Viel?
The region is beautiful throughout the year, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions for hiking. During these seasons, the weather is generally mild, and the natural landscapes of the Perche Natural Regional Park and various forests display vibrant colors, from spring blossoms to autumn foliage. Summer is also suitable, though some trails might be busier.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Many trails in the natural parks and forests around La Chapelle-Viel are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock. It's always advisable to check local signage for specific restrictions within protected areas like the Perche Natural Regional Park. Generally, well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome.
What do other hikers say about the trails in La Chapelle-Viel?
The hiking routes in La Chapelle-Viel are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average score of 4.4 stars from over 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquility of the forests, the varied terrain, and the well-maintained paths that offer continuous engagement with Normandy's natural beauty.
Are there any hikes that feature water bodies or rivers?
Yes, you can find trails that incorporate water features. For instance, the On the banks of the Risle loop from Saint-Sulpice-sur-Risle is a moderate 9.4 km route that follows the Risle river, offering scenic views along its banks. Additionally, the Conturbie Pond is a nearby highlight that can be incorporated into a walk.
Where can I find parking for trailheads?
Parking is generally available near the starting points of many popular trails, especially in and around the villages and natural park entrances. For routes like the Château de L'Aigle loop from L'Aigle, you can typically find parking within the town of L'Aigle. Specific parking information is often detailed on individual route pages on komoot.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes for experienced trekkers?
While most routes are easy to moderate, the extensive network of forests like Écouves and Perseigne allows for longer expeditions by combining trails. For a moderate, longer option, consider the On the banks of the Risle loop from L'Aigle, which spans 13.2 km and offers a good workout through varied terrain.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter?
The natural parks and forests, such as the Perche Natural Regional Park and Écouves Forest, are rich in biodiversity. Hikers might spot various bird species, deer, wild boar, and smaller mammals. The tranquil environment provides a habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it an excellent area for nature observation.
Are there any specific forests that are particularly good for hiking?
Absolutely. The Écouves Forest is highly recommended, known for its rolling countryside, wooded paths, and clearings, with seven signposted routes. The Perseigne Forest also offers a beautiful landscape of hills and valleys with ancient trees, while the Multonne Forest provides a wilder setting with granite formations and heather carpets. The Forêt Domaniale d'Evroult Notre Dame is another excellent option for walks.
Most popular attractions around La Chapelle-Viel
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
