The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Forêt Domaniale de la Malmaison

The Lafayette Escadrille Memorial celebrates the memory of American pilots and their sacrifice during the First World War. Designed by architect Alexandre Marcel, this neoclassical triumphal arch was inaugurated on July 4, 1928, Independence Day, in the presence of Marshal Foch and Senate President Paul Doumer. The 68 aviators of the Lafayette Escadrille and the Lafayette Flying Corps are buried in the crypt, decorated with 13 remarkable Art Deco stained-glass windows. After the monument, you will find the beautiful Villeneuve Pond, home to numerous birds and a picnic area.

This 200-hectare forest was acquired by Joséphine de Beauharnais in 1800, the first wife of Emperor Napoleon I. The estate extended over a thousand hectares as far as the woods of La Celle-Saint-Cloud. The Empress particularly appreciated this walking area and often took her guests there for horse-drawn carriage rides. Near the Saint-Cucufa pond, she had a sheepfold and a stable built. The latter is still visible and today houses the forest rangers of the National Forestry Office. After Joséphine's death, the estate was divided up and partially deforested. It was her great-nephew, Napoleon III, who saved the forest from fragmentation through exchanges. He bought it in 1856 and incorporated it into his civil list. In 1870 and 1871, the Malmaison State Forest was the site of fierce assaults by Captain de Nisme's artillery against the Prussians entrenched behind the Buzenval wall. In 1871, the forest became state-owned when it became part of state property. Since 1966, it has been managed by the National Forestry Office. It is composed mainly of trees such as chestnut, oak, ash, cherry, sycamore, beech, and birch. You descend to the beautiful pond on the left (be careful, there is a steep descent with many walkers and dogs—usually kept on leashes) where you can admire numerous birds (woodpecker, moorhen, heron, etc.). Access to the pond is via an unpaved path for 100 meters. Access to the Château de la Malmaison and its park in Rueil-Malmaison (bicycle racks in front of the castle entrance): 2 km. You will then join trail no. 4 "From the Empress to the Impressionists." Go back up to the right until you reach the entrance to the woods (the way you came in). On the way up, on the left: you can complete the fitness trail on foot. At the exit of the Bois de St. Cucufa: restaurant and bakery. Head towards the old village of Garches, a steep descent. You can admire the St. Louis Church, the Sidney Bechet Cultural Center, the town hall (restrooms accessible on weekdays), and its park. There are many shops but no bicycle racks.

Not lit but you can go there in peace, there are no potholes.

The Route de Saint-Cucufa in the Forêt domaniale de la Malmaison is an exciting mountain bike trail that will test even the most experienced riders. As you ride the winding paths, you’ll encounter steep climbs, technical descents, and breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. The trail is renowned for its diverse terrain, which ranges from smooth singletrack to rocky outcrops. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna that inhabit this ancient forest.

The Lafayette Escadrille Memorial, located in Marnes-la-Coquette, west of Paris, is a memorial dedicated to the Lafayette Escadrille, a group of American volunteers who joined the French Air Force during World War I. The squadron, created in 1916, was made up of American pilots who volunteered to fight alongside France before the United States officially entered the conflict. Their courage and commitment symbolize the strong ties between France and the United States. Inaugurated in 1928, this memorial pays tribute to the 68 American pilots of the Lafayette Escadrille who died for France. The monument is impressive with its neoclassical stone columns, topped with statues and patriotic symbols, including eagles and American and French flags. It also houses a crypt where some of these pilots are buried. Why visit the Lafayette Escadrille Memorial? A historical memorial site: The memorial honors heroes of the First World War and is a testament to Franco-American relations based on shared values of freedom and sacrifice. Monumental architecture: The memorial, with its imposing columns and statues, is a striking example of commemorative architecture, symbolizing the greatness of the pilots' sacrifice. Discovering a little-known story: For those interested in military history, the site offers a unique opportunity to discover the history of the Lafayette Escadrille, a lesser-known but very important part of the First World War. A peaceful setting: Located in a green park, the memorial offers an atmosphere of contemplation and calm, conducive to reflection and commemoration. Franco-American Ties: The site embodies the enduring friendship between France and the United States, symbolized by the brotherhood of arms during the two world wars. The Lafayette Escadrille Memorial is an essential place of remembrance, recalling the courage of the American pilots who fought for France, and a powerful tribute to the sacrifices made in the name of freedom.

Tunnel under the A13, connecting the St-Cloud park to the Garches pond. A bridge with steps then passes over the rails of the Transilien L line and is not accessible for wheelchairs.

DOMAINE NATIONAL DE SAINT CLOUD GRILLE DU COMBAT Opening hours: - 7:30 a.m. to 7:50 p.m.: November, December, January, February - 7:30 a.m. to 8:50 p.m.: March, April, September, October - 7:30 a.m. to 9:50 p.m.: May, June, July, August Access through this gate is prohibited to all motor vehicles In case of emergency 01 41 12 02 90

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