Top 5 Lakes around Mortefontaine
Best lakes around Mortefontaine are found within a region known for its historical charm and natural landscapes. The area features several notable lakes and ponds, primarily within its historic Grand Parc, including the prominent Étang de l'Épine. This landscape, shaped by centuries of design, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The interconnected water bodies, such as Étang de Vallière and Étang des Islettes, form part of a domain characterized by grand lakes, canals, and picturesque elements.
Best lakes around Mortefontaine
- The most popular lakes is Étangs de Commelles, a lake that is part of the beautiful forest of Chantilly and the Regional Natural Park Oise-Pays de France. It is a protected site, rich in biodiversity, and was frequented by romantic artists and authors in the 19th century.
- Another must-see spot is Chantilly English–Chinese Park, a historical park with an artificial lake. This garden, designed in 1773, features winding alleys, a Chinese pagoda, and the Hameau, which inspired Marie-Antoinette's Hameau at Versailles.
- Visitors also love Jean-Jacques Rousseau Park, a landscaped garden with ponds. Inspired by paintings, it features meadows, groves, and small buildings, and is named after the philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who spent his last weeks there.
- Mortefontaine is known for its historical lakes, artificial lakes within parks, and natural ponds. These water bodies offer diverse settings for exploration.
- The lakes around Mortefontaine are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 10 photos and over 10 upvotes shared for the highlights.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
Chantilly English–Chinese Park
Highlight • Natural
Translated by Google •
Tip by
White Queen's Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Étangs de Commelles
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Jean-Jacques Rousseau Park
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Salvador Allende Park
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Quite a nice natural space for walking. A few ducks, gray herons and other animals live in the middle of this slightly muddy pond.
1
0
The Jean-Jacques Rousseau park in Ermenonville is a beautiful example of a landscaped garden, inspired by the paintings of Poussin and Claude Lorrain. There you can admire ponds, meadows and groves, as well as small buildings evoking different virtues, values or characters. The park is named after the philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who spent the last six weeks of his life there and was buried on Île des Peupliers. You can follow in his footsteps and meditate on his writings, engraved on certain ruins. The park is also a place of literary pilgrimage, as many famous writers and artists have visited it over the centuries. You can enjoy the tranquility and harmony of nature in this park, which is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
2
0
The Anglo-Chinese park of Chantilly is a garden designed in 1773 by the architect Jean-François Leroy for Prince Louis-Joseph de Bourbon-Condé. It is home to the Hameau, a group of five thatched cottages which inspired Marie-Antoinette for her own Hameau at Versailles. You can run along the winding paths, admire the Chinese pagoda and the artificial lake, and taste delicious treats made from the famous Chantilly cream in the restaurant. The Anglo-Chinese park is a charming and romantic place to discover the art of living in the 18th century.
2
0
The Jean-Jacques Rousseau Park in Ermenonville is a beautiful example of a landscaped garden, inspired by the paintings of Poussin and Claude Lorrain. You can admire ponds, meadows and groves, as well as small buildings that evoke different virtues, values or characters. The park is named after the philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who spent the last six weeks of his life there and was buried on Île des Peupliers. You can follow in his footsteps and meditate on his writings, engraved on certain ruins. The park is also a place of literary pilgrimage, as many famous writers and artists have visited it over the centuries. You can enjoy the tranquility and harmony of nature in this park, which is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 11:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
2
0
The English-Chinese Park of Chantilly is a garden designed in 1773 by the architect Jean-François Leroy for Prince Louis-Joseph de Bourbon-Condé. It is home to the Hameau, a group of five thatched cottages which inspired Marie-Antoinette for her own Hameau at Versailles. You can stroll through the winding alleys, admire the Chinese pagoda and the artificial lake, and enjoy delicious treats made with the famous Chantilly cream in the restaurant. The English-Chinese Park is a charming and romantic place to discover the art of living in the 18th century.
2
0
Here we have a very beautiful landscape of lakes with the castle in the distance. A natural setting for the greatest pleasure of cyclists. You can therefore land and take a break to recover your strength. The creperie in front of the lake is great!
0
0
The ponds of Commelles are part of the beautiful forest of Chantilly and therefore of the Regional Natural Park Oise-Pays de France It is a protected site, rich in biodiversity, with thousands of frogs in March. In the 19th century, the ponds were frequented by romantic artists and authors such as Chateaubriand.
1
1
Here we have a very beautiful landscape of lakes with the castle in the distance. A natural setting for the greatest pleasure of hikers! You can therefore land and take a break to recover your strength.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical significance do the lakes around Mortefontaine hold?
The lakes in Mortefontaine, particularly the Étang de l'Épine (Grand Lac), are steeped in history. They are part of the historic Grand Parc, a landscape shaped by centuries of design. Joseph Bonaparte acquired the property in 1798, enhancing it with new plantations and structures. The area was so esteemed that it inspired artists like Watteau, whose "Embarkation for Cythera" was set on the banks of Île Molton. The Chantilly English–Chinese Park also features an artificial lake within a garden designed in 1773, known for its Hameau which inspired Marie-Antoinette.
Are there good hiking opportunities around the lakes near Mortefontaine?
Yes, the region offers various hiking opportunities. You can explore trails that pass by lakes and through natural settings. For example, the area around Étangs de Commelles, located within the beautiful forest of Chantilly, is a protected site ideal for walks. You can find detailed hiking routes, including easy and moderate options, in the Hiking around Mortefontaine guide.
Which lakes are suitable for families with children?
Several lakes and parks are family-friendly. The Chantilly English–Chinese Park offers winding alleys and a charming Hameau. Jean-Jacques Rousseau Park features ponds, meadows, and groves, providing a peaceful setting for families. Additionally, Étangs de Commelles and Salvador Allende Park are also noted as family-friendly locations.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the lakes?
Yes, some locations offer amenities. For instance, the Chantilly English–Chinese Park has a restaurant where you can enjoy treats made with the famous Chantilly cream. Near the White Queen's Castle, there's a creperie in front of the lake, perfect for a break.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see at these lakes?
The lakes around Mortefontaine offer diverse natural beauty. You'll find serene natural environments, often surrounded by forests. Étangs de Commelles is a protected site rich in biodiversity, known for its thousands of frogs in March. The Étang de l'Épine, along with Étang de Vallière and Étang des Islettes, are fed by the Thève river, creating a picturesque network of water bodies.
Are there any artificial lakes or designed parks to visit?
Yes, the region is known for its historically designed landscapes. The Chantilly English–Chinese Park features an artificial lake within a garden designed in 1773. Similarly, Jean-Jacques Rousseau Park is a beautiful example of a landscaped garden with ponds, inspired by classical paintings.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Mortefontaine?
The lakes offer beauty throughout the year, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for walks and enjoying the natural scenery. In March, Étangs de Commelles is notable for its abundant frog population. The historical parks and natural settings are generally enjoyable during milder weather, offering vibrant foliage in autumn and fresh blooms in spring.
Are there options for cycling or mountain biking near the lakes?
Yes, the area around Mortefontaine provides excellent opportunities for both cycling and mountain biking. You can find various routes, including easy and moderate options, that explore the surrounding landscapes and forests. Check out the Cycling around Mortefontaine guide and the MTB Trails around Mortefontaine guide for detailed routes.
Are dogs allowed at the lakes in Mortefontaine?
While specific regulations for each lake may vary, many natural parks and outdoor areas in France generally welcome dogs on a leash. It's always best to check local signage or official park websites for the most current rules regarding pets, especially in protected natural sites like Étangs de Commelles.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Mortefontaine?
Visitors appreciate the serene natural environments and the rich historical context of the lakes. Many enjoy the picturesque settings, the opportunity for quiet contemplation, and the blend of natural beauty with centuries of landscape design. The presence of castles and historical structures, like the White Queen's Castle, adds to the charm, making it a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers.
Are there any less crowded lakes or quieter spots for relaxation?
While the main lakes like Étang de l'Épine are popular, the interconnected ponds such as Étang de Vallière and Étang des Islettes, within the former Domaine de Mortefontaine, offer a more tranquil experience. These areas are part of a significant historical and natural attraction, providing peaceful settings away from larger crowds.
Can I find viewpoints to admire the lakes?
Yes, several locations offer scenic views. The area around the White Queen's Castle provides a beautiful landscape of lakes with the castle in the distance. Similarly, the designed landscapes of parks like Jean-Jacques Rousseau Park are crafted to offer picturesque vistas of ponds and groves.
Most popular routes around Mortefontaine
Most popular attractions around Mortefontaine
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Mortefontaine? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
