Trail des Aigles

It is often said of the Eagle that it is one of the most majestic animals on our planet 🦅. By nature tenacious, voracious and elegant, it’s an incredible predator, always on the lookout for its prey. Majestic ? Just like the Trail of Gouvieux, created by the association “Les Aigles de Gouvieux” 😍. The first running event in the town, the eaglets wanted to contribute to the growth of the sport by highlighting the notable places of the territory. This nature trail, committed to the planet, will let you discover all corners of the commune of Gouvieux and its surroundings, south of the Oise department 🌳. At such an affordable rate (€10 and €15), why hesitate? 😏

The meeting point is set in the commune of Gouvieux, just under an hour’s drive from Paris, in Hauts-de-France. In March, temperatures will be ideal for running in the best conditions, with on the program a gentle springtime accompanied by sun ☀️. OK, we’ll admit it, in the north you’re never safe from a bit of rain, so bring your rain jacket and boots, just in case 🌧. On the program of the Trail de Gouvieux, two timed races open to participants aged 16 and up, with distances accessible to all levels: 9 km and 15 km with 150 meters of positive elevation. 👌

And since you’re probably wondering what the course will have in store for you, we’ll lay it out without delay. The organizers have set up two trails combining self-transcendence, sport, friendliness, but above all, nature and discovery of the commune and its surroundings 😊. After your start at the Gymnase de Gouvieux, your first strides will take you on Oise-side roads that lead you to the Étangs de Toutevoie, where you can take a quick dip if you overheat (though not strictly recommended 😅). The wildlife you may encounter is rich, and you might cross paths with a Garrot à Oeil d’Or or a Harle Bièvre 🦆. The challenge of the day is none other than the ascent of the Mont Jules César, rising to 138 meters above sea level. Legend says that Caesar himself loved running on these hills 😉. As a fan of spelunking, you’ll be delighted to admire the Troglodyte House district, which today hosts artisan workshops 🏺. The beauty of these houses, seemingly carved from a cave, will literally take your breath away. Before returning to Gouvieux, you’ll explore the village of Toutevoie, and you’ll have the chance to run along the tranquil banks of the Oise. 🏃‍♂️

Energetic as you are, we’re sure you’ll still have some energy left to learn more about the cultural and gastronomic heritage of the region in store. You can especially visit the Conde Museum, in Chantilly where you’ll marvel at works signed by Delacroix, Botticelli, Poussin or Raphael 🖼. The museum can boast the largest collection of paintings before 1850, after the Louvre! Rien que ça 😱. Finally, to delight your taste buds, treat yourself to a Ficelle Picarde with dessert, famous Picantins de Compiègne, these delights made with chocolate and nougatine. 😋

So if you’re looking to take flight, come and take part in the Trail de Gouvieux! 😎