A walk beneath tall beech trees, a cycle ride or a quiet family outing: the Forest of Lyons offers a different side of Normandy close to Les Gîtes de Flaubert. It makes an inviting day out between visits to Rouen, villages and historic sites.

A remarkable beech forest

The state forest covers around 10,700 hectares. Long avenues and mature beech trees create an open, light-filled woodland landscape. Managed by France’s National Forests Office, the ONF, it is a place to enjoy nature while respecting a working forest and its wildlife.

Walking, cycling and time outdoors

Marked routes offer opportunities for walking and cycling. Select a route suitable for your group, check the permitted uses and ground conditions, and use current maps. Horse riding should also be planned around the authorised routes and any arrangements with an external provider.

• Spring: fresh green foliage and the return of woodland colour.
• Summer: shaded paths for an outing away from the busiest sites.
• Autumn: warm colours for walks and photography.
• Winter: a quieter atmosphere, with suitable footwear and daylight planning.

For mushroom or wild-fruit picking, check the current rules and local restrictions. Check the hunting calendar and temporary closures before setting out, keep to authorised paths and take your litter home.

Stop in Lyons-la-Forêt

At the heart of the surrounding woodland, Lyons-la-Forêt is listed among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. Half-timbered houses, the old market hall, small shops and café terraces make it a pleasant stop before or after a walk.

The village also served as a setting for film adaptations of Madame Bovary. A visit combines Norman architecture with a literary connection that echoes the names of our cottages.

Ideas for a day during your stay

• A family walk chosen to suit everyone’s abilities.
• A mountain-bike outing on permitted trails.
• A picnic in an appropriate area, without lighting a fire.
• A photography walk through the changing woodland.
• Time to observe the landscape and wildlife without disturbing them.

Reach the forest by car from the estate and choose your starting point before leaving. Routes, journey times and parking depend on the part of the forest you plan to visit.

A countryside base at Les Gîtes de Flaubert

After your outing, return to your cottage to cook, relax and spend time together. Families, friends and groups can choose the accommodation that matches their headcount. Leisure equipment and outdoor spaces depend on the cottages reserved.

Combine woodland walks with local food, villages and heritage sites for a weekend or a longer Normandy holiday. Tell Aurélia and Christophe your dates and bedroom requirements to plan your stay.

For route information and current conditions, consult Lyons Andelle Tourism’s forest guide before your outing.

Plan your stay

• Compare accommodation options
• Les Dépendances du Flaubert
• La Cour de Flaubert
• Things to do nearby

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Related guides

• Discover Lyons-la-Forêt
• Explore the Andelle valley