Rambouillet / Épernon

This is the last, really delightful stage before you leave the greater Paris region of Ile-de-France for the département (French county) of Eure-et-Loir. Having explored the English-style gardens at the Domaine de Rambouillet, follow the Guéville Valley to the little town of Épernon, perched above the confluence of three rivers and designated a Petite Cité de caractère® for its historical attractions.

 Stage description

This stage leads you through the grounds of the Château de Rambouillet, then along rural tracks and peaceful little roads.

 Crossing the Château de Rambouillet's grounds: in the direction Paris – Mont-Saint-Michel, the Rondeau entrance gate has specific opening times: 10am – 5pm in low season and 8am – 9pm in summer. Beyond those times, you can enter via the northeast gate, which is always open. Cross the heart of town and enter the grounds via the route de Guéville where you'll soon spot signposts directing you to our cycle route. We advise against cycling along the D906 road, which is often very busy.

 Not to be missed:

• The Château de Rambouillet, a former French royal residence, proposes a tour of the queen's dairy, a shell-decorated thatched cottage and the French- and English-style gardens.
• Épernon, Petite Cité de Caractère®, a little town that proves a delight to wander around, exploring the historic centre and area around the church. Plus, will you solve the mystery of the mummy?

 On the map, activate the Accommodation Useful information Leasure Restauration to discover nearby services and points of interest.

 Food and drink en route

• Rambouillet: many food shops and markets on Wednesday and Saturday mornings on Place de la Libération.
• Épernon: many food shops and a market on Tuesday mornings on Place de la Mairie.

 Bike repair

• Culture Vélo Rambouillet, Gazeran.
• Cycles Mister D, Villiers-le-Morhier.
• L'Atelier des Cyclistes, Nogent-le-Roi.
• Custom Bikes (mobile, Rambouillet – Chartres section).
• La Re'bicyclette (mobile, Rambouillet – Épernon section).

 Consult the list of all the bike repairers along or near the route.

 Nearby train stations

• Rambouillet station
• Épernon station

 See our article on reaching the veloscenic cycle route for more information on options for travelling with a bicycle.