The best walks and hikes around Soligny-La-Trappe
4.7
(38)
222
hikers
28
hikes
Hiking around Soligny-La-Trappe offers access to the diverse landscapes of the Perche Regional Natural Park. The terrain features gentle hills, dense forests, and a network of trails that traverse the rural French countryside. The region is characterized by extensive woodlands, including the Forêt Perche-Trappe, and is home to the source of the River Sarthe, providing varied natural environments for exploration.
Best hiking trails around Soligny-La-Trappe
- The most popular hiking route is Abbaye de La Trappe — loop in the PARC…
Last updated: May 5, 2026
4.7
(7)
40
hikers
8.51km
02:15
70m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
38
hikers
4.25km
01:07
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(6)
45
hikers
4.68km
01:14
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
4.00km
01:02
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
6.84km
01:49
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Called La Trappe, this abbey from 1122 was the cradle of a reform of the Cistercian order in 1664, creating the Trappist order.
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A very beautiful abbey where the Trappist monks are still active. Cyclists and hikers can fill their canisters and water bottles at the available and free water point.
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The Abbey of Notre-Dame de la Trappe is a working monastery, located in Soligny-la-Trappe. Born in the 11th century in the short-lived congregation of Savigny, he joined the Cistercian order like his mother abbey in 1147.
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Spiritual home of Trappist monks, this abbey and monastery have had a tumultuous history. You will appreciate the most beautiful doors at the entrance of the monastery when you run past.
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Spiritual home of Trappist monks, this abbey and monastery have had a tumultuous history. You will appreciate the most beautiful doors of the monastery when you pass by.
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Active monastery founded in the 11th century which is home to the famous Trappist monks. While the abbey of La Trappe was faced, like most monasteries, with a decline in monastic fervor, it was refounded in 1660, following a stricter reading of the rule. This reform is originally called “of the Strict Observance”, but more commonly called “Trappist” in homage to the abbey which gave birth to it. Trappist life is a form of monastic-type religious life, lived under the rule of Saint Benedict (5th century), father of monks in the West. It is characterized mainly by a life voluntarily led apart from the world, in order to favor prayer. This punctuates the day of the monk who goes to church seven times a day. It is also a life of work, rather manual (about six to eight hours a day). It is also a path of asceticism marked by obedience to an abbot or a prior. In addition to obedience, celibacy, sharing of goods, silence, vigils, and fasts, the path of the Trappist monk is shaped by the community where he chooses to put down roots. This Trappist life combines solitude and community life. Everything the monk lives, he lives in the same momentum with other brothers with whom he prays, eats, works, reads and meditates on the Word of God. Note: to refresh yourself, you can take advantage of the presence of a fountain offering excellent quality spring water offered by the monks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Soligny-La-Trappe?
Soligny-La-Trappe offers a diverse network of over 25 hiking trails. These routes explore the varied landscapes of the Perche Regional Natural Park, from dense forests to gentle hills and tranquil ponds.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Soligny-La-Trappe has many easy trails perfect for beginners or families. Over half of the routes are rated as easy. For example, the Étang d'Orainville loop from Bresolettes is an easy 2.6-mile (4.3 km) path offering a tranquil walk around the pond.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the area?
Many of the hiking routes around Soligny-La-Trappe are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Abbaye de La Trappe — loop in the PARC NATUREL RÉGIONAL DU PERCHE, which is a moderate 5.3-mile (8.5 km) trail exploring the surroundings of the historic abbey.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking around Soligny-La-Trappe?
Hikers in Soligny-La-Trappe will experience the quintessential rural French landscape of the Perche Regional Natural Park. Expect gentle hills, extensive forests like the Forêt Perche-Trappe, picturesque countryside, and serene lakes and ponds. The region is also known for its traditional farmhouses and apple orchards.
Are there any specific natural landmarks or attractions to look out for on the trails?
Yes, the area is rich in natural features. You can discover the source of the River Sarthe, a significant hydrological landmark, via a dedicated 'Nature et Découverte' circuit. The region is also part of the 'Forêts et étangs du Perche' Natura 2000 area, highlighting its diverse natural habitats. Many trails also pass by tranquil lakes such as the Étang Neuf.
What historical or cultural sites can I visit while hiking?
The historic La Trappe Abbey (La Grande Trappe) is a significant landmark and a focal point for several hiking routes. The 'Nature et Découverte' circuit also guides hikers past the local church, a historic washhouse ('Lavoir de l'Osier'), and the halls of the old railway station. You can also visit the Saint Bernard Fountain of La Trappe Abbey.
Is Soligny-La-Trappe a good place for dog-friendly walks?
The natural landscapes of Soligny-La-Trappe, with its extensive forests and open countryside within the Perche Regional Natural Park, generally offer good opportunities for dog-friendly walks. Many trails are unpaved and pass through natural environments, making them suitable for dogs, though leash rules may apply in certain protected areas or near livestock.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Soligny-La-Trappe?
The routes in Soligny-La-Trappe are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, the well-marked paths, and the serene atmosphere of the Perche Regional Natural Park.
Are there any hikes that feature lakes or ponds?
Absolutely. The region is dotted with bodies of water. You can enjoy walks around the Étang d'Orainville, such as the Étang d'Orainville loop from Tourouvre au Perche. The Base de Loisirs de l'Etang Neuf also offers shaded walking paths around the lake, providing tranquil settings for leisurely strolls.
How can I access the hiking trails using public transport?
While Soligny-La-Trappe is primarily accessed by car, some local bus services might connect surrounding villages. However, direct public transport access to specific trailheads can be limited. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for the Orne department if you plan to rely on public transport.
Is parking available near the trailheads?
Yes, parking is generally available near popular trailheads and attractions in Soligny-La-Trappe, especially around key points like La Trappe Abbey or the Base de Loisirs de l'Etang Neuf. As it's a rural area, many starting points for hikes will have designated or informal parking spots.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Soligny-La-Trappe?
The Perche Regional Natural Park is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and fresh greenery, while autumn offers stunning fall foliage in the extensive forests. Summer is pleasant for shaded forest walks, and even winter can be charming for crisp, quiet hikes, though some paths might be muddy.
Are there any longer or more challenging routes for experienced hikers?
While many trails are easy to moderate, the extensive network within the Perche Regional Natural Park allows for longer combinations. There are 11 moderate routes available, and by linking several trails, experienced hikers can create more challenging, longer-distance adventures through the varied terrain of forests and rolling hills.
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