What outdoor activities are there for families around Vexin-sur-Epte?

Nestled in lush greenery, Vexin-sur-Epte is an ideal destination for families seeking nature, relaxation, and discovery. Located on the border between Normandy and the Île-de-France region, you can reach it in just 1 hour for a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a bucolic walk, an educational experience, or a forest adventure, you’re sure to find something to delight both young and old. And to welcome you for a weekend or a few days of vacation, the Maison Saint Nicolas invites you to enjoy its ideal base.

Family walks and hikes

To enjoy a 100% nature experience with your family , Maison Saint Nicolas invites you to discover the Vexin Bossu . You can walk there in any season to marvel at a true haven of peace. Not far from there, the Bois d’Écos hike and the Marais Vernier also await you to help you discover the beauty of Normandy’s landscapes.

From Vexin Bossu to Bois d’Écos

Around Vexin-sur-Epte, immerse yourself in the Vexin Bossu, which offers a pleasant and relaxing break. With your family, this is the perfect opportunity to explore marked trails that will take you between wooded hills and fields that stretch as far as the eye can see. As it’s a leisurely stroll, you can easily plan a picnic around one of the many streams and venture into the region’s typical villages.

Families looking for adventure can also turn to the Bois d’Écos hike. The 7.9 km trail passes through peaceful forests, numerous valleys, and the Grimonval church . It’s a great way to lose yourself in nature for a rejuvenating experience.

The Vernier Marsh

Near the Maison Saint Nicolas, you can also explore the Marais Vernier, which stretches over 4,500 hectares of greenery . With the children, this is an opportunity to experience exceptional biodiversity with white storks, grey herons, ospreys, and peregrine falcons. You can also head to the Grand Mare Observatory or the Saint-Samson-de-la-Roque lighthouse, which offers breathtaking views of the Seine.

100% nature cycle tourism

Another must-do activity in Normandy is cycle touring . Since the Maison Saint-Nicolas has the “Accueil Vélo” label, it welcomes you less than 5 km from your cycle route (greenway). You can then enjoy a pleasant family outing without worrying about logistics. Our partnership with Givernon Rental Station allows us to provide you with all the equipment upon your arrival.

We can also direct you to the best local routes by providing advice, maps, and all the must-see points of interest. In the superb Epte Valley , you can easily travel to Gisors, the capital of the Norman Vexin. But the greenway also leads to the Seine or Giverny along a path filled with rivers, castles, and authentic villages. A must-do family sporting activity, especially for adventure lovers!

A cultural getaway to Giverny

Just 1 hour from Paris, families can also visit Claude Monet’s Gardens in Giverny. From April onwards, this visit is unmissable as nature awakens in vivid colours and intoxicating scents. There, you can immerse yourself in the Water Garden , famous for having inspired the painter’s Water Lilies. You will also discover numerous flowers and shrubs such as weeping willows, bamboos and Japanese tree peonies.

Not far from there, the Clos Normand opens the doors to Claude Monet’s private grounds. Cherry trees, daffodils, oriental poppies, and peonies offer an incredible fragrance. During the day, you can also explore Giverny and its famous Impressionist Museum , which often features high-quality temporary exhibitions. A unique opportunity to stroll through the village to discover its superb Norman houses and gastronomy.

Other activities not to be missed

Close to Maison Saint Nicolas, you can also enjoy other activities for all tastes and ages. Looking for a refreshing and exciting experience? Head for a 2-hour canoe-kayak trip , just 20 minutes from the cottage. From April to mid-October, you can easily choose a sunny family route that promises lots of fun.

Prefer to get up high? Then head to the treetop adventure course ! With courses ranging from 7 to 15 meters, it will delight young and old alike. In addition, the course also offers multiple events such as vacation courses or evening events for the more adventurous. The lodge also adapts to your artistic desires by offering singing or musical instrument courses. In short, a great way to get your fill of nature with the family just 1 hour from Paris!