Philippe Lobgeois

My cycling trip with FairTrotter

Imperial Getaway in Oise

What if we traveled through nature and history in an eco-responsible way? FairTrotter - travel agency – has the stay you need! In the heart of the Compiègne Pierrefonds destination, a real gem for cycling enthusiasts, get on your bike and dive into the heart of our national forest. Between the shaded paths, discover two architectural treasures: the sumptuous castle de Compiègne and the imposing Pierrefonds Castle. This trip combines the pleasure of riding, fascinating heritage and unspoiled nature for a 100% fun experience!

 

  Are you coming from Paris? Find here all the ways to get to Compiègne!

At the start of your stay in Paris, the travel agency FairTrotter provides you with: the equipped bike, accommodation, entry to the sites, the travel diary, the computerized map as well as all the useful information for your stay, and assistance. For an additional fee, it is possible to collect the equipment directly from the station.

Program

DAY 1: THE IMPERIAL HISTORY OF COMPIEGNE

First stop : the essential castle de Compiègne, a true testimony to French imperial history where the monarchs of France stayed, from Louis XV to Napoleon III. You will discover much more than the imperial apartments since inside the castle are also the Museum of the Second Empire, the National Carriage Museum and the Museum of the Empress.

It is also an opportunity to enjoy the large park, with the possibility of having a picnic there! A second option is available to you: go a little further into the park to discover the Rose Garden, you will find a tea room in the greenhouse for a delicious break.    

Isabelle Amans - Oise Tourism
THE LITTLE EXTRAS:
  • Once you have visited the castle, enjoy the rest of your day in Compiègne to discover the historic city center where more than one surprise awaits you: walk along the ramparts from the Carolingian and Philip Augustus eras, appreciate the beauty of the half-timbered houses (the oldest of which supports 500 years of history!), stroll through the gardens at the foot of the ramparts, in the Songeons park or follow the orienteering trail in the Bayser park.
  • Nature lovers (and sports enthusiasts), we have the spot for you! Walk along the Allée des Beaux-Monts, a five-kilometer walk that takes you to a high point, offering you a magnificent view of the castle, the park and the national forest. de Compiègne.
  • And to continue in this enchanting setting, how about a walk in the forest on the back of a Henson (a breed of small, robust and docile horses)?  

You will spend the night in Compiègne.

A world by bike - Oise Tourisme
A world by bike - Oise Tourisme
A world by bike - Oise Tourisme
DAY 2: THE IMPERIAL NEO-GOTHIC

Direction : Pierrefonds to discover another emblematic castle of the destination. Both marked by the passage of Napoleon III, the castle de Compiègne and Pierrefonds Castle differ in many ways. Overlooking the village, Pierrefonds Castle impresses with its medieval appearance. However, it is not a fortified castle, although the 14th century ruins are the origin of the castle we know today. Straight out of the imagination of the architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, Pierrefonds Castle nevertheless remains a fascinating place full of history.

For lunch, we offer you a well-deserved break at L’Embarcadère, with a view of the lake and the Château de Pierrefonds: a most pleasant setting to end your stay with us!

Elsa Cyril
THE LITTLE EXTRAS:
  • Are you not tired of pedaling? We still offer you an alternative. Before or after your meal, take advantage of your proximity to the lake to take a little pedal boat ride. But if you want to change things up a bit, we have another fun activity to offer you: Kiosk mini golf !
  • Perhaps you would like to know more about the village of Pierrefonds? Look no further: our audio-guided tour « Discovering the town centre of Pierrefonds » offers you a pleasant 45-minute walk through our charming streets.

From Pierrefonds, return to Compiègne to get to the train station. On the way back, enjoy a short stop in the village of Saint-Jean-aux-BoisDating back to the 12th century, this village gives the impression that time has stood still: in the heart of the forest, with a magnificent fortified gate and picturesque alleys.

To end your stay, from the station de Compiègne, you just need to take the TER to return to Paris Nord station.  

What if you stayed longer?

Extend your stay in our beautiful destination by one more day, you will not be disappointed.

film resonance
Oise Tourism
DAY 2: THE DIVERSITY OF THE VALOIS COUNTRY, FROM THE MIDDLE AGES TO THE THERMAL RESORT

Direction : Pierrefonds, passing through Saint-Jean-aux-Bois. Stroll through its small streets to discover its Abbey, a place at the heart of the village's history, as well as its Arboretum where you can enjoy a pleasant botanical garden.

Then head to Pierrefonds, to eat and continue your discovery of our villages.

To round off your day in Pierrefonds, why not enjoy a nice dinner at Lake Cottage ? In summer, you will enjoy its pleasant terrace with a view of the lake and the Pierrefonds castle. And in cooler temperatures, you will appreciate a good meal near the fireplace!

You will spend the night in Pierrefonds.

 

DAY 3: THE IMPERIAL NEO-GOTHIC

After a restful night, visit the Château de Pierrefonds. For your last meal in this village, we offer lunch at the restaurant Beaudon, where you will enjoy an elaborate menu and seasonal products! Then head back to the station de Compiègne.

Convinced? Book your stay now!

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Xavier Renoux - Oise Tourism
Resonance Films & Digital - Guillaume Each
Resonance Films - Guillaume Each
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