Top 4 Natural Monuments around Viarmes
Best natural monuments around Viarmes are found in a region north of Val d'Oise, situated between the Oise river and the Forest of Carnelle. This area features diverse natural spaces, including expansive forests, picturesque ponds, and significant historical sites. The landscape offers a blend of biodiversity and recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore a variety of natural attractions that highlight the region's ecological and historical value.
Best natural monuments around Viarmes
- The most popular natural monuments 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 known for its rich biodiversity, including thousands of frogs in March.
- Another must-see spot is The Blue Lake of Carnelle, a forest lake. This lake, formed in old marl quarries, is known for its changing blue to emerald green color due to gypsum, marl, and algae.
- Visitors also love Covered alley, a historical site. This funerary megalith dates back to the beginning of the Neolithic period and is the largest and most famous of its kind in the Paris region.
- Viarmes is known for its lakes, forests, and historical sites. The region offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, from ancient megaliths to serene bodies of water.
- The natural monuments around Viarmes are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 150 upvotes and 60 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 19, 2026
The Blue Lake of Carnelle
Highlight • Forest
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Étangs de Commelles
Highlight • Lake
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Covered alley
Highlight • Historical Site
All the slabs are in Fontainebleau sandstone, several outcrops of which are visible on the hillside.
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La Pierre Longue Menhir
Highlight • Monument
Accessible by walking along the wood in the field, it is visible from the field or the woods.
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Carnelle Spring
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Tips from the Community
What is to be remembered from this route is the passage through the Carnelle forest. However, there are too many roads on the Isle Adam and along the Oise. No particular difficulty.
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pretty lake hidden in the middle of the forest
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A 3-meter-high isolated menhir, made of sandstone, with a typical shark's fin shape, suggesting that a part has been broken. Accessible by walking along the wood in the field, it is visible from the field or the woods.
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This funerary megalith dates back to the beginning of the Neolithic period! It is the largest and most famous of all the covered alleys in the Paris region, which has become the archetype of burials associated with the Seine-Oise-Marne culture. All the slabs are in Fontainebleau sandstone, several outcrops of which are visible on the hillside.
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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.
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Lac Bleu is one of the two bodies of water in the Carnelle forest. On sunny days, its name takes on its full meaning. But there is another reason for the name of this lake from ancient quarries. The rock at the bottom is a mixture of gypsum and marl. The color is changing due to algae, but originally it is deep blue. Around the lake, one can appreciate oaks, beeches and chestnuts. A feast for the eye!
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The Blue Lake, like the small pond located a few dozen meters away, has been built in old marl quarries, which give the water a bluish color. For this reason, they reach a depth of 20 to 30 m and swimming is prohibited there for safety reasons. On the other hand, you can go fishing there. The ponds have replaced the quarries, and the presence of green marls, which color their bed, explains their astonishing variation in color. Going from turquoise blue to emerald green, depending on the depth, the time of day, the intensity of the light.
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Be careful, I don't know if it is still drinkable. If someone has the info, please leave a message.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most notable natural monuments around Viarmes?
The region around Viarmes offers several unique natural monuments. Among them, the Blue Lake of Carnelle stands out for its striking color, while the Étangs de Commelles are known for their biodiversity and historical significance within the Forest of Chantilly. You can also explore ancient sites like the Covered alley, a Neolithic funerary megalith.
Which natural monuments are suitable for families with children?
Several natural monuments around Viarmes are family-friendly. The Blue Lake of Carnelle and the Étangs de Commelles are excellent choices, offering beautiful scenery and easy paths for walks. The Covered alley also provides an interesting historical stop that can be combined with a family outing.
Are there hiking or walking trails near the natural monuments in Viarmes?
Yes, the area around Viarmes is rich with opportunities for hiking and walking. You can find numerous trails, including routes that pass by natural monuments. For example, there are running trails that incorporate the Blue Lake of Carnelle. Explore more options on the Running Trails around Viarmes guide.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at these natural sites?
The natural sites around Viarmes are home to diverse wildlife. The Étangs de Commelles, for instance, are a protected site rich in biodiversity, notably known for thousands of frogs in March. The Chemin de la Petite Plaine, along the Oise river, supports significant ecological, avifaunistic (bird), and floristic (plant) interest, making it ideal for birdwatching.
Are there opportunities for cycling near the natural monuments?
Absolutely. The expansive Forest of Chantilly, which encompasses sites like the Étangs de Commelles, offers superb settings for cycling. You can find various routes, including traffic-free options and mountain biking trails. Check out the Traffic-free bike rides around Viarmes guide and the MTB Trails around Viarmes guide for detailed routes.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments in Viarmes?
Spring and autumn are generally ideal for visiting the natural monuments around Viarmes. In spring, sites like the Étangs de Commelles come alive with biodiversity, including thousands of frogs. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, especially in the Forest of Chantilly. Summer is also pleasant, but can be busier.
Are there any historical or archaeological natural monuments in the area?
Yes, the region features significant historical natural monuments. The Covered alley is a notable funerary megalith dating back to the Neolithic period, considered the largest and most famous of its kind in the Paris region. Additionally, the La Pierre Longue Menhir is an impressive 3-meter-high sandstone monument with a distinctive shape.
What makes the Blue Lake of Carnelle unique?
The Blue Lake of Carnelle is unique due to its striking color, which can range from turquoise blue to emerald green. This phenomenon is caused by the green marls and gypsum in the ancient quarry bed from which the lake was formed. It's a beautiful sight nestled within the Carnelle forest.
Can I fish at any of the natural monuments?
Yes, fishing is permitted at the Blue Lake of Carnelle. While swimming is prohibited due to its depth and safety reasons, it's a popular spot for anglers.
Are there any natural springs or water features to visit?
Yes, the Carnelle Spring is a natural water feature located in the area. It offers a tranquil spot to visit, though it's advisable to check local information regarding the potability of the water if you intend to drink from it.
What are the Étangs de Commelles known for?
The Étangs de Commelles are renowned for their picturesque beauty within the Forest of Chantilly and their rich biodiversity, particularly during spring when thousands of frogs are present. They also hold historical significance, having been a favored spot for romantic artists and authors in the 19th century.
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