Thérouanne (rivière) walks

At the confluence of the Marne, Ourcq and Thérouanne rivers, the ponds and reed beds of the Grand Voyeux regional estate are home to a huge number of birds. The walk begins on the observation path of this protected natural site. It then hops along the River Thérouanne, along the Canal de L'Ourcq and the Canal de la Thérouanne, and ends along the Marne. Water and birds are the main attractions on this route!

A hike on both banks of the River Thérouanne, in places where fierce fighting took place during the Battle of Ourcq (September 1914). A rich heritage along the way: mills, farmhouses, a castle, a chapel, a church, etc.

Circular through three villages marked by the history of the First World War.

A very pretty circular route starting from Étrepilly via Varreddes and Congis-sur-Thérouanne, which can be enjoyed in various ways, such as:- on foot, on horseback or by bike.

A superb ride on horseback (at a walk: 4 hours; at a trot: 3 hours; at three gaits: 1 hour 30 minutes) but also possible on foot (5 hours) or by bike (3 hours) through the fields, past roe deer and along the banks of the Thérouanne. Most of the paths are grassy or dirt tracks and very well maintained; there are a few roads to cross, but with good visibility, or to follow – though these are all fairly quiet roads, generally with grassy verges for safety. The route takes you across the plateaus; it can be windy in places, and the route is fairly open, so take care in hot weather. In the depths of winter, it’s a very pleasant walk, with all paths fully accessible.

On foot (1 hr 40 mins), by bike (30 mins), or on horseback (at a walk: 1 hr, at a trot: 30 mins). Runs alongside the railway line for a short distance.Grass, dirt and tarmac paths, with a short stretch through the town centre but on quiet roads. Some elevation gain.

A lovely 2-hour ride at a walk and trot, including a section on a country road (at a brisk pace), suitable for experienced riders. This route can also be done on foot (3 hours), by bike (50 mins), or on horseback (at a walk: 1 hour 30 mins, at all three gaits: 50 mins). A bit of tarmac, the rest of the paths are very pleasant dirt and grass tracks; this route can also be done by bike. Enjoyable in both directions.

A superb ride on horseback (at a walk: 45 mins, at a trot: 20 mins, at all three gaits: 20 mins) but also possible on foot (1 hour) or by bike (20 mins) through the fields. Most of the grassy paths are very well maintained; there are no roads to cross or use. A ride across the plateau; winds may be present in places; the route is fairly open, so take care in hot weather. Best enjoyed in the warmer months, as the section running alongside the marshes is impassable in winter; alternatively, take the northern section via the Étrépilly road in winter.

This list includes several hikes that pay tribute to soldiers of all nationalities who fought in the First World War. More than a century later, certain remnants still bear witness to the appalling conditions in which they lived. In the list, these hikes are classified according to the front line, from north to south and then from west to east.