Discover Étampes: A Destination between History and Nature

Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or looking for family activities, Étampes and its region have plenty to offer. Discover with balladins the unique features of this destination and the many opportunities for outings and excursions in the area.

Étampes’ Historical Heritage

Étampes boasts remarkable historical heritage, with monuments that testify to its significance in the Middle Ages. As a royal city, it has preserved many traces of its glorious past.

The Guinette Tower: An iconic symbol of the city, the Guinette Tower is a 12th-century keep that overlooks the town. Climbing to the top, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Étampes and its surroundings. This tower is a remnant of the fortifications that once protected the city.
Saint-Martin Church: This 12th-century Gothic church is one of the oldest in the city. It is particularly known for its stained glass windows and sculptures. Don’t miss its twisted spire, a rare architectural curiosity that gives the church a unique appearance.
Valnay Castle: Located at the city's edge, this 17th-century castle is surrounded by magnificent French gardens. While the castle itself is not open to the public, the gardens are accessible, offering a peaceful setting for a stroll.

Outdoor and Leisure Activities

Étampes is a green city with plenty of outdoor activities, especially around its leisure base, a must-visit for families and nature enthusiasts.

Étampes Leisure Base: This vast natural area offers a multitude of activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy paddle boating, canoeing, or simply relaxing by the water. The leisure base also includes an adventure park with tree-top courses for all levels and a wave pool to enjoy water fun in the summer.
Hiking and Biking: Nature lovers will find numerous hiking trails around Étampes. Walks along the Juine Valley reveal unspoiled nature, ideal for recharging your batteries. Cyclists can explore several bike paths that wind around the city, perfect for a day of cycling in the great outdoors.
Orienteering Course: If you love challenges, the orienteering course at the leisure base lets you explore the region while having fun. With a map and compass in hand, go on a quest to find markers scattered throughout the park for an enjoyable outdoor activity.

Cultural and Craft Discoveries

In addition to its historical heritage and natural spaces, Étampes also offers interesting cultural and craft discoveries.

The Intercommunal Museum of Étampes: This museum presents a diverse collection ranging from archaeology to modern art. It provides a deeper understanding of the local history and appreciation of works by regional artists. The museum regularly organizes temporary exhibitions and workshops for children.
Local Markets and Producers: Étampes is also renowned for its markets, where you can discover local products from the region. The Étampes market, held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, is one of the largest in the southern Île-de-France. You'll find a wide range of fresh products, artisanal cheeses, and local specialties, perfect for tasting the region's flavors.

Excursions and Activities Around Étampes

Etampes is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area and uncovering other hidden treasures of the region.

The French Gâtinais Regional Natural Park: Just a few kilometers from Étampes, the French Gâtinais Regional Natural Park offers diverse landscapes, including forests, rivers, and farmland. This park is a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and anglers. You can discover picturesque villages, mills, and Romanesque churches that reflect the area's rich rural past.
Dourdan and its Medieval Castle: Only 20 minutes from Étampes, the town of Dourdan is worth a visit for its impressive 13th-century fortress. This medieval castle, surrounded by moats, is an exceptional example of the defensive architecture of the time. The castle museum retraces the town's history and hosts exhibitions on medieval art.
Fontainebleau Forest: For a day of adventure in nature, Fontainebleau Forest is a must-see. This vast forest area is a haven for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers. Marked trails guide you through landscapes of rocks, heather, and pine trees, offering unique panoramic views of the region.

Stay in Étampes with balladins

To explore the town and its surroundings in complete tranquility, book your stay at our authentic by balladins "Domaine Malar." Our establishments welcome you with all the comfort you need to relax after a day of discovery. Whether you're on a business trip or a leisure getaway, our hotels are ideally located to help you make the most of your stay in Étampes.

Étampes is a hidden gem worth visiting, both for its rich historical heritage and its outdoor activities in a preserved natural setting. Whether you are a culture enthusiast, nature lover, or family fun seeker, the town and its surroundings offer countless opportunities for an enriching stay just a short distance from Paris. Plan your visit with balladins and be charmed by the authentic allure of Étampes and its hidden treasures.