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For climbing fans, there's no need to go all the way to Fontainebleau! The Glachoirs quarries,an exceptional natural site located in Saint-Vaast-lès-Mello and Montataire, offer climbing and hiking routesJust a few kilometres from Paris, close to the forests of Chantilly and Compiègne.
Les Glachoirs, an exceptional site for walking and hiking
If this is the first time you've set foot on the former quarry called the Glachoirs, there's a good chance you'll be amazed, garanteed wowie effect !
Our senses are in turmoil in this former open stone quarry. You'll be astounded by the view, surrounded by these gigantic blocks of stone reaching for the sky. The smell is that of the South of France thanks to all the pines which surprisingly grow there... Our ears pick up the clicking of the climbers harnessing themselves to the walls. Our fingertips touch the marks left on the stone by the stonemason at the end of the 19th century. And as for the taste... we'll let you enjoy your picnic in this magical place!
Les Glachoirs, a protected natural site
Les Glachoirs also boasts a unique biodiversity, offering an environment that has little in common with traditional local landscapes.The area is classified as a Natural Zone of Ecological, Faunistic and Floristic Interest. Theses former quarries houses numerous species of plants, such as orchids, and animals, so it must be preserved (make sure you collect all your belongings or waste when you go for a walk or picnic and, above all, please never pick flowers or plants).
To complete your walk, don't miss theSaint-Vaast pond (or Marais de Chantraine)It is also a Protected Area for its exceptional flora and fauna.
Les Glachoirs, a unique climbing site
Since 2019, thanks to a partnership between theAgglomeration Creil Sud Oisethe towns of Saint-Vaast-lès-Mello and Montatairethe company B.P.E Lecieux (owner of the site), the Comité Territorial de la Fédération Française de la Montagne et de l'Escalade de l'Oise (Oise Territorial Committee of the French Mountain and Climbing Federation) and the Picardy Conservatory of Natural Environments, the Glachoirs has become a popular spot for climbers and one of the most beautiful climbing spots of Hauts-de-France Region. The Oise Territorial Committee regularly maintains the 200 or so open routes, some of which are 12 metres high!
