Camino in France: Paris to Chartres

Today, we leave Saint-Rémy and embark on a gentle climb through the lush forests and rolling hills of the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse Regional Natural Park. This protected area is renowned for its diverse flora, tranquil woodlands, and historic châteaux.

Around midday, we arrive in Dampierre-en-Yvelines, home to the elegant Château de Dampierre. This château is a fine example of French classical architecture, surrounded by expansive gardens. Here, you can enjoy lunch at local cafés or bakeries, taking in the village’s quiet charm.

In the afternoon, we continue our walk along peaceful forest trails and open fields, eventually making our way to Fontaine-Saint-Benoit. At the end of the day, a van transfer will bring us back to Saint-Rémy for a second night’s stay.

Today’s stage takes you deeper into the heart of the Chevreuse Valley, with a path winding through mixed forests and charming countryside. Today’s destination, Rambouillet, offers a vibrant town center with historic cafés and shops, perfect for a break after the day’s walk. Here, pilgrims rest for the night in comfortable accommodations, preparing for the next day’s journey. Right across our hotel, you enter an area rich in royal history, crowned by the majestic Château de Rambouillet. This grand estate, once a royal residence and hunting lodge, is surrounded by extensive parklands and formal gardens that invite a leisurely stroll.

Leaving our hotel in the center of Rambouillet, the path crosses the Chateau’s Park and leads through a variety of landscapes including forested stretches, open fields, and small rural villages. The journey passes near the Rambouillet Forest, an important natural reserve known for its biodiversity and serene atmosphere. Along the way, you may spot remnants of old stone walls and traditional farmhouses, reflecting the region’s agricultural heritage. The route gently descends towards Épernon, a historic town characterized by its medieval ramparts and Renaissance architecture.
Épernon’s charming streets offer a glimpse into France’s past, with local shops and cafés where you can pause before settling in for the night. This day ends with a second night spent in Rambouillet.

The fifth day of the pilgrimage begins with a walk through the peaceful countryside surrounding Épernon. Rolling fields, dotted with occasional groves and small villages, create a pastoral backdrop. The route takes you through hamlets with rustic stone houses and narrow lanes, inviting a moment to appreciate rural life. Jouy, the day’s destination, is a small community known for its warm hospitality and quaint charm. The walk is marked by calm rural vistas and the soft sounds of nature, offering a chance to reflect on the pilgrimage’s progress. A short transfer brings us to our hotel in Maintenon.

The final walking stage approaches the historic city of Chartres, famed for its stunning cathedral and rich heritage. The trail crosses open fields and small forests, leading into the outskirts of this medieval city. As you draw closer, the iconic silhouette of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres dominates the skyline—a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with its impressive stained-glass windows and twin spires. The route allows for moments of quiet contemplation amidst the surrounding landscapes before entering the vibrant city. Upon arrival, pilgrims can stroll through Chartres’ old town with its half-timbered houses, lively squares, and riverside paths, soaking in the atmosphere of this revered pilgrimage destination.

On the final morning, the group dedicates time to a detailed visit of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres. A guided tour reveals the cathedral’s architectural grandeur, including its remarkable stained glass, sculptural details, and spiritual symbolism. Pilgrims have the opportunity to walk the labyrinth inside the cathedral—a historic path used for meditation and prayer. This visit provides a meaningful conclusion to the pilgrimage, allowing participants to reflect on their journey and the rich cultural heritage they have experienced. Many choose to light a candle or attend a morning Mass, embracing the cathedral’s spiritual ambiance before departing.

* This itinerary may change slightly due to accommodation availability, rain, festivals, and spontaneous side trips.
** You will see the number of kilometers mentioned with the daily description. We are flexible in the amount you personally walk. We have the van to assist in whatever amount you would like to walk on this pilgrimage.
*** This is not an endurance race, nor a competition. Please be respectful of all the different paces and walks of life that come together on this group trip.
**** There may be several occasions where we sleep for two nights in one hotel or B&B. Most people find this to be an advantage as you can unpack or take a rest day if you chose not to walk one day.