The best walks and hikes in Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay
4.6
(13)
30
hikers
13
hikes
Hiking in Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay offers trails through an ancient deciduous woodland, primarily composed of oaks and beeches. Situated on an elevated plateau with altitudes ranging from 100 to 156 meters, the forest features calcareous soils and serves as a water divide for tributaries of the Boutonne river. This Natura 2000 site is characterized by varied terrain, from accessible paths to moderate routes, some following old railway lines.
Best hiking trails in Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay
- The most popular hiking route…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
5.0
(2)
5
hikers
8.36km
02:09
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
2
hikers
10.6km
02:44
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(2)
5
hikers
12.0km
03:04
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
2
hikers
5.59km
01:26
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
7.50km
01:55
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Small village with lovely curiosities, sculptures... To discover!
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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.
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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.
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Very beautiful Romanesque church ... to see
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The church is a must. She was a pilgrimage church on the way to Santiago. Here is a small impression from the impressive Wikipedia text: "A three-aisled hall church was built. Due to structural features, three construction phases are clearly distinguishable: The transept is characterized by uneven exterior walls. Only the southern transept has its own portal, whose jewelery figures are arranged radially. This portal and the east side in total have a rich figure decoration. The capitals feature figurative as well as vegetable decorative elements, often in Celtic style. The nave is outwardly structured by blind arcades. The capitals in the interior have floral motifs and masks as décor. Between the construction of the nave and the choir therefore a - not exactly to be taken - temporal distance is assumed. The third construction phase was a plan change that was made during the ongoing construction of the nave: The originally planned four yokes was presented a fifth to the west. This can still be seen today on both the south and the north wall on the remains of the foundations already made a west facade as the conclusion of the fourth yoke. The completion and consecration of the church is assumed around 1170. " https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/St-Pierre_(Aulnay)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay?
The Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay is situated on an elevated plateau, with altitudes generally ranging from 100 to 156 meters. You'll find varied terrain, from easily accessible paths suitable for all skill levels to more moderate routes. The forest features calcareous and clay soils, primarily supporting deciduous trees like oaks and beeches. Some paths even follow old railway lines or waterways, offering diverse walking experiences.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay?
Yes, Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay offers several easy trails perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Hiking loop from Rives-de-Boutonne is an easy 7.5 km route. In total, there are 6 easy routes available, providing gentle walks through the forest's ancient woodlands.
What are some notable landmarks or historical sites to see while hiking in the forest?
The forest is rich in history and natural features. A unique landmark is the 'Rond-Point,' an intersection of eight roads at the heart of the forest. Historically, the area has evidence of human occupation dating back to the Neolithic period, and pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela once traversed these woods. You can explore routes like the Knights Templar sculpture loop from Ensigné, which combines natural scenery with historical points of interest near the Commanderie des Templiers.
Is Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay suitable for dog-friendly hikes?
Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay is generally welcoming for dog walkers, offering ample space for your canine companions to explore. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs under control, especially given the forest's status as a Natura 2000 site, home to diverse wildlife. Always check for local signage regarding leash requirements or restricted areas.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay?
The Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay offers varied scenery throughout the seasons. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming flora, while autumn transforms the deciduous trees into a vibrant display of colors. Summer provides shaded paths, and even winter can offer serene, crisp walks. The best time depends on your preference for foliage and weather conditions.
Are there any circular hiking routes available in Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay?
Yes, many of the trails in Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Aulnay State Forest loop from Maison forestière du Rond-Point, a moderate 8.4 km trail that explores the forest's core. Another is the Bois des Chagnasses loop from Asnières-en-Poitou, which is a longer 13.7 km route through varied woodland.
How many hiking trails are there in Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay?
There are over a dozen hiking trails available in Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. This includes 6 easy routes, 6 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for everyone from casual strollers to more experienced trekkers.
What makes Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay ecologically significant?
Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay is designated as a Natura 2000 site in Charente-Maritime, highlighting its ecological importance. It is home to a rich variety of plant and animal life, including several orchid varieties, genets, and short-toed snake eagles (circaète Jean le Blanc). This designation underscores a commitment to preserving its unique flora and fauna.
Are there any trails that follow historical routes or old railway lines?
Yes, some paths within Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay sometimes follow old railway lines or waterways, adding a unique historical dimension to your hike. This offers a glimpse into the region's past infrastructure and provides interesting, relatively flat sections for walking.
What do other hikers say about their experience in Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay?
The hiking routes in Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 15 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the ancient deciduous woodlands, the varied terrain, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable outdoor experience.
Are there any nearby towns or villages where I can find amenities after a hike?
Yes, the forest is close to several towns and villages where you can find amenities. Aulnay, Vinax, and Saint-Mandé-sur-Brédoire are nearby, offering options for cafes, pubs, and accommodation. These locations can serve as convenient starting points or places to relax after exploring the forest.
Is there public transport access to Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay?
While direct public transport into the heart of the forest may be limited, nearby towns like Aulnay, Vinax, and Saint-Mandé-sur-Brédoire might offer regional bus services. For the most flexibility, accessing the forest by car is generally recommended, allowing you to reach various trailheads and parking areas more easily.
Most popular routes in Forêt Domaniale D'Aulnay
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