The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Chartres
4.5
(828)
5,395
hikers
245
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Chartres offer a diverse landscape characterized by picturesque river valleys, expansive open plains, and historic features. The Eure River is a prominent natural feature, providing gentle terrain for walks along its banks. The region also includes the vast Beauce plains and areas featuring historic quarries, providing varied scenery for outdoor exploration. The terrain generally features a mix of flat sections and gentle inclines, making it accessible for families.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Chartres
…Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.7
(13)
25
hikers
4.31km
01:10
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(14)
34
hikers
9.67km
02:32
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Sign up for free
5.0
(3)
17
hikers
23.3km
06:02
130m
130m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
15
hikers
16.9km
04:25
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
10
hikers
7.59km
01:59
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Chartres
The most beautiful cycling routes in the Loire Valley
The Loire Valley – escape to the great outdoors
From Paris to Mont-Saint-Michel — La Véloscénie
Castles, mills and masterpieces – Loire Valley by bike
Pilgrimage from Rambouillet to Tours – Saint-Jacques by bike (V41)
Nature and Culture — discover the Loire and its castles by bike
L’Eure nature — Itinérances à vélo en Normandie
Other adventures around Chartres
Tips from the Community
According to tradition, the church choir covers the remains of an older building, possibly dating back to the 6th century, which was built to house the saint's body. According to current knowledge, the commune of Saint-Piat (Sanctus Piatus in Latin) officially appeared in 1087, mentioned in a charter of the Nottonville Priory (Eure-et-Loir), on which it depended. The current building was rebuilt during the time of Francis I, as suggested by the date 1535 engraved on two buttresses of the apse and the date 1542 engraved on a piece of wood from the vault. This is according to a study by the SAEL (Eure-et-Loir Archaeological Society). The three-sided apses, the dripstone towers (horizontal members projecting from a wall), and the sculpted roof structures are a testament to the importance of the reconstructions carried out in the department during the 16th century. The church of Saint-Piat is one of them. While the church has not been officially recognized, it nevertheless contains objects that have attracted attention both for their antiquity and quality, but not always for good reason. Their artistic value, far from attracting only religious or aesthetic interest, has also aroused a covetousness that, unfortunately, remains for some of them. Fortunately, those still in place are carefully cared for and offer the curious a story to discover, a beauty to slowly ponder as they progress toward the choir.
0
0
The Church of Saint-Aignan owes its name to the Bishop of Orleans around 400, when a pre-Romanesque church stood on the same site. Over the centuries, it was replaced by various other buildings, particularly those destroyed by fire. Saint-Aignan was the parish of the Counts of Blois and Chartres.
0
0
This beautiful ensemble of buildings from the 15th, 17th, and 18th centuries is a listed historic monument. In the reception rooms and noble spaces such as the vestibule, the Italian Hall, and the chapel, you will discover collections of paintings, sculptures, objets d'art, and ethnographic objects spanning the period from the 13th to the 20th centuries. Stroll through the works of Léonard Limosin, Teniers, Zurbaran, Rigaud, Fragonard, Chardin, Préault, Corot, Vlaminck, Soutine, and Henri Navarra.
0
0
The current remains are those of the 15th-century gate and its barbican or artillery boulevard. The earliest remains on the site date back to the 1st century, with the remains of an ancient domus, a street, and its wooden gutter. The first Guillaume Gate was built around 1185; a wall can still be seen a little further along Rue de la Porte Guillaume. Source: https://journals.openedition.org/cem/14214?lang=en
0
0
Very pretty market place day and night.
0
0
Beautiful green space in the middle of the city. Sometimes flooded in winter.
0
0
Eure River Banks Park
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Chartres?
There are over 200 family-friendly hiking trails around Chartres, offering a wide variety of options for all ages and skill levels. Most of these, around 100, are considered easy, making them perfect for families.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes near Chartres?
The region around Chartres features a pleasant mix of landscapes. You'll find gentle river valleys along the Eure, expansive open plains of the Beauce region, and even areas with historic quarries. The terrain generally includes flat sections and gentle inclines, making it accessible for families.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for families with young children or toddlers?
Yes, for a very accessible and short walk, consider the Chartres city center loop, which is just over 4 km. It allows you to explore the historic core and enjoy the city's charm. The 'Plan Vert' also offers pedestrian paths along the Eure, perfect for refreshing strolls close to the city.
Can we find circular routes for family hikes in the Chartres area?
Many of the family-friendly trails around Chartres are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the Chartres city center loop is a great circular option.
What natural features or scenic viewpoints can we discover on these trails?
You can explore the picturesque Eure River banks, discover ponds, and enjoy open views across the Beauce plains. Some trails, like the Between Ponds and Eure Valley Trail, offer varied scenery including both water features and valley landscapes. The Sakurai Garden in Chartres also offers panoramic views of the cathedral.
Are there any historical landmarks or attractions along the family-friendly routes?
Absolutely! Many routes offer glimpses of history. You can see the magnificent Chartres Cathedral, explore the historic city center, or even discover areas with historic quarries that supplied stone for the cathedral. The Maintenon Castle is also a notable attraction in the wider area.
Is public transport available to access hiking trails outside the city center?
While many trails are accessible by car, Chartres is a well-connected city. For specific routes, it's best to check local bus schedules or regional train services that might connect to starting points of trails further afield. The 'Plan Vert' along the Eure is easily accessible from the Chartres campsite, which is well-served by local transport.
What is the best time of year for family hiking around Chartres?
Spring and autumn are generally ideal for family hiking around Chartres, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming flowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially for walks along the Eure River where shade is available, but be mindful of warmer temperatures.
Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails in the Chartres region?
Many trails in the Chartres region are dog-friendly, especially those in natural areas and along riverbanks. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in agricultural areas or near wildlife, and to check specific trail regulations if you plan to visit a protected park or garden.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Chartres?
The family-friendly trails around Chartres are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful mix of urban and natural scenery, and the accessibility for families with children.
Are there places to picnic or find refreshments near the hiking routes?
Yes, Chartres and its surrounding towns offer various amenities. You'll find parks and gardens within Chartres itself, like the Parc des Bords de l'Eure, which are perfect for picnics. Many villages along the trails will also have local cafes or bakeries where you can grab a snack or drink. For more information on leisure activities and parks, you can visit the Chartres Tourism website.
Most popular routes around Chartres
Most popular attractions around Chartres
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
