Top 9 Lakes around Neuilly-En-Thelle

The region around Neuilly-En-Thelle features a variety of lakes, including artificial lakes formed in old quarries, natural forest lakes, and water features integrated into historical sites. These diverse settings offer unique landscapes for exploration.

Yes, The Blue Lake of Carnelle is renowned for its distinctive blue color, a result of gypsum and marl in the rock, surrounded by ancient oaks, beeches, and chestnut trees. Additionally, the Étangs de Commelles, located in the nearby Chantilly Forest, offer picturesque views with shaded footpaths and historical charm.

Many lakes, such as the Étangs de Commelles, are recognized for their ecological interest, providing habitats for aquatic birds like kingfishers, common pochards, great crested grebes, mute swans, and grey herons. Étang des Trois Sources is also a great spot for birdwatching, with moorhens, swans, ducks, and barnacle geese. The surrounding forests, like Carnelle, feature ancient trees.

Yes, Royaumont Abbey includes a lake within its grounds, offering a blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The Étangs de Commelles also have a rich history, created in the 13th century by monks and overlooked by the charming neo-Gothic Château de la Reine Blanche.

The lakes offer various activities. You can enjoy peaceful walks around ponds like Le Petit Étang de Carnelle, or explore the 4 km shaded path around the Étangs de Commelles, which is also suitable for cycling and horseback riding. Birdwatching is popular at several locations.

Yes, many lakes offer pleasant walking opportunities. The Étangs de Commelles feature a popular 4 km shaded path that encircles all four ponds. Lakes within the Carnelle forest, such as Le Petit Étang de Carnelle and The Blue Lake of Carnelle, also have paths for strolls and appreciating the forest density.

Yes, the area offers opportunities for cycling and mountain biking. The Étangs de Commelles are suitable for cycling. For more dedicated routes, you can explore the MTB Trails around Neuilly-En-Thelle or Gravel biking around Neuilly-En-Thelle, which include routes like 'The Commelle ponds – The Coye-la-Forêt washhouse loop'.

Fishing is permitted in some lakes, such as Le Petit Étang de Carnelle, which is a peaceful spot for fishermen. However, it is prohibited in others, like the Étangs de Toutevoie. Always check local regulations before planning to fish.

Many of the lakes are family-friendly. The Étangs de Commelles offer pleasant, shaded paths perfect for family strolls, and picnic areas are available. Étangs de Toutevoie is also described as a peaceful and friendly place with walking paths. Always supervise children, especially near water.

The lakes offer beauty in all seasons. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures for walking and cycling, with vibrant foliage or blooming nature. March is notable for the amphibian migration at the Étangs de Commelles. Summer is ideal for enjoying shaded paths and picnics, while winter offers a serene, quiet atmosphere.

Swimming is generally prohibited in many of the lakes for safety reasons. For instance, it is not allowed in Le Petit Étang de Carnelle due to its depth, nor in the Étangs de Toutevoie. Always respect posted signs regarding water activities.

Yes, the Étangs de Commelles offer picnic areas and a crêperie called L'Étang d'Art. The Étangs de Toutevoie also provide barbecue facilities, making them suitable for outdoor meals.