Picardy, a forgotten former administrative region located between Paris and the North, has no shortage of places to explore. From ancient castles to expansive parks with unique flora and fauna, make sure your travel itinerary highlights certain places in Picardy. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking views or hidden off-the-beaten-path sights, Picardy truly has something to offer visitors from all walks of life.

Visit the Commelles Ponds in Picardy

The ponds of Commelles, located in the communes of Orry-la-Ville and Coye-la-Forêt in the south of the Oise department, are among the most popular places to walk in the Chantilly forest in Picardy. They contribute an important part to the natural heritage of Picardy and are among other places to visit in this region such as the ponds of Saint-André in Thiers-sur-Thève upstream of Commelles or the ponds of Royaumont downstream. The Thève River, a tributary of the Oise in the Seine basin, is 33.5 km long and is the source of these ponds. Blessed with diverse flora, fauna and ecology, this picturesque place is an irresistible invitation to discover its grandeur.

Visit the crater of La Boisselle “Lochnagar” in Picardy

Located in the commune of Ovillers-la-Boisselle, in the Picardy region of France, the mine hole of La Boisselle (also known as La Grande Mine or Crater of Lochnagar) is one of the places to visit that pay tribute to the combatants of the Battle of the Somme. This massive crater was formed by an explosive mine that exploded during the Great War. It has a diameter of 90 meters and a depth of 22 meters. A staggering 35 tons of explosives were used to create this impressive formation that serves as a place of remembrance. So, during your visit to Picardy, take the time to visit this magnificent monument that commemorates those who fought in one of the greatest battles in history while enjoying its breathtaking natural landscape.

Visit the Crécy State Forest in Picardy

Among the natural places to visit in Picardy for their amazing landscapes, the forest of Crécy is an ideal place for those who wish to enjoy the hospitality of nature. Covering an area of 4,300 hectares, it offers a natural landscape that is full of different types of wood such as hornbeam and oak, including beech. Its flora is not the only attraction of the forest, which is also home to specimens of game, thus offering many entertaining activities for the hunters who occasionally climb its lands. For those who simply opt for a peaceful walk amidst the greenery, nine listed hiking routes and fifteen forest houses welcome staff and travelers in search of rest.