Just 20 minutes from Paris, the Commelles ponds offer an enchanting getaway, far from the asphalt and notifications. Fairytale forest, romantic castle, creperie by the water: everything you need for a quick escape into nature without leaving Île-de-France. Follow the sound of the frogs, we’re taking you there.
The Castle of the White Queen
Here, there are no signals, no honking, just the crunch of leaves underfoot and the singing of birds as your soundtrack. Four ponds, Commelle, Chapron, Neuf, and de la Loge, flow peacefully, lined with century-old oaks and reeds. At the end of the path, as if stepping out of a dream: the White Queen. No, she’s not a character from Game of Thrones, but a charming 19th-century hunting lodge, with turrets that reflect in the water like a magical mirror.
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A Frog Hideaway
Designated as a Natura 2000 site (just that!), this little corner of the forest is a hideaway for frogs, newts, and contemplative herons. In spring, the amphibians throw their big annual rave, to the point where the nearby roads close at night to let them pass. And we just sit there, by the water's edge, with our feet (almost) in the water lilies, listening to their songs.
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Crêpes and Contemplation
And because walking makes you hungry, let’s meet at the Étang d’Art, a creperie nestled near the castle, where you can sit on the terrace between two weeping willows. Goat cheese galette, dry cider, and a nice post-lunch nap on the grass are optional!
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How to get there ?
Takes the TER from Paris Gare du Nord to Orry-la-Ville-Coye (20 min). Then, just a 15-minute walk and you'll be there.
Don't forget to bring : comfortable sneakers, your camera, and a good book if you're in the mood to relax.
