The Hippodrome de la Solle in Fontainebleau between races and festive events

We set off to discover one of the little-known jewels of the Seine-et-Marne (77) region. Nestled in the Solle valley at Fontainebleau, this historic racecourse seduced us with its relaxed atmosphere and verdant setting. Far from the stuffy codes we sometimes imagine, the place cultivates a family-friendly, accessible atmosphere that immediately put us at ease.

The history of the Solle racecourse is rich. In fact, it goes back much further than you might imagine. Under the reign of Louis XVI, the Dukes of Artois and Chartres organized the first races at Fontainebleau on November 11, 1776, in front of the King, who had come to hunt. This first attempt was a great success and marked the birth of the equestrian tradition in Fontainebleau.

But the history of the present site really began in 1852, when the chasseurs de la Garde, garrisoned at Fontainebleau, cleared this area of the Solle valley for use as a military manoeuvring ground. This transformation of the forest landscape inadvertently created the ideal space for a future racecourse. After the departure of the military, local youngsters got into the habit of organizing informal races in a family atmosphere, sensing the potential of the site.

The official adventure began in 1862 with the opening of a public subscription at Fontainebleau town hall. The Société Hippique Départementale took on the task of creating a real racecourse. The work was carried out with the help of the Garde chasseurs, who brought their military expertise to the civilian project. Technical innovation was the order of the day: for the first time in France, a 2400-meter left-hand rope track was built, revolutionizing the standards of the time.

The inauguration on June 22, 1862 was an event of exceptional magnitude. Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie presided over the grandiose ceremony, which drew 30,000 spectators, including 4,000 who had come specially from Paris by train. A pavilion with an open gallery was specially built for the emperor's personal use, an architectural testimony that can still be seen today. Under the Second Empire, the Société des courses was presided over by the Prince de la Moskowa, grandson of Marshal Ney and Minister of State for the Emperor's Household, underlining the importance attached to this facility by the imperial power.

The first thing that strikes you is the green setting of the racecourse. The 54-hectare site includes several tracks adapted to different disciplines. Obstacle races are run on both ropes (left and right) up to 6,000 meters in cross-country and 4,400 meters in hurdles and steeplechase. For flat racing, the courses are on the left-hand rope, up to 3,000 meters, and the straight line measures 1,200 meters. This diversity makes it possible to accommodate all types of races, from flat gallops to the most spectacular obstacle events.

Families are given pride of place here. Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to be a turf expert to enjoy the day. It's a fun place to be with friends or family. Children can run freely in the green spaces while parents watch the races, creating a relaxed atmosphere not found everywhere.

On the practical side, we were won over by its accessibility. Prices are still very affordable: €4.50 full price, €3.50 for students, over-60s and groups, and free for under-18s. Enabling the whole family to discover the world of racing without breaking the bank. This democratic pricing policy is in line with the racecourse's desire to remain accessible to as many people as possible.

The racetrack offers a rich program of events throughout the year, alternating between flat and obstacle races. Upcoming events include the semi-nocturne on September 21, which promises a special atmosphere under the floodlights. These evening races add an extra festive dimension to the experience, extending the pleasure until nightfall.

In addition to the races, the racecourse also hosts a wide range of cultural events to enrich its calendar. The flagship event remains the"Branche et Ciné" festival organized by theNFB, which transforms the racecourse into an open-air cinema. A gigantic inflatable screen is installed on the obstacle course, and spectators take their seats in the historic Napoleon III grandstand for free screenings in the heart of this remarkable natural forest site.

We were able to visit the installations during our visit and imagine the atmosphere it must create: watching a film under the stars in this exceptional historic setting, with the forest all around, it made us want to come back for another edition. The concept appeals to us because of its uniqueness. Each year, the festival offers a varied thematic program, alternating between auteur films, heritage cinema and contemporary productions. Pre-programmes often include forest animations, guided walks or woodcraft presentations, adding an educational dimension to the event.

The racecourse also occasionally hosts other festive events such as themed fairs or concerts, diversifying its cultural offering as the seasons go by. This versatility makes the racecourse much more than just a racecourse: it's a genuine cultural and leisure space in the heart of the Fontainebleau forest.

The on-site catering offer is a real asset. The racecourse restaurant welcomes you every race day in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Every race day, we offer two different dishes of the day, as well as menus, suggestions and a varied menu (salads, pasta, fish and grilled meats) and, of course, the chef's specialties (Tête de veau, Magret de canard, etc.). Reservations must be made on the morning of the races by calling 01 64 22 58 31, a practical detail to remember.

Horse enthusiasts, families on a Sunday outing, groups of friends, retired regulars: all can mingle in a friendly atmosphere.

TheSolle racecourse also has an educational dimension. Observing the horses in the paddock, understanding the different disciplines, discovering what's at stake in each race: all these elements enrich the visit, even for neophytes. On-site commentators are happy to explain the subtleties of the races, making the show accessible to all.

The hippodrome de la Solle is home to some 2,100 horses that start out in the course of the year, testifying to the dynamism of this institution. This high level of activity guarantees a varied program of quality events throughout the season, from February to December.

Access from Paris is easy: A6 freeway, Fontainebleau exit, then follow signs for Avon-Champagne and Melun. The site has free parking, making it easy for families to visit. This proximity to the capital is one of the reasons why the racecourse is so popular with Parisians looking for a nature outing in Seine-et-Marne.

For hiking enthusiasts, the racecourse is also an ideal starting point or stop-off point for exploring the surrounding trails. There are several signposted circuits to discover the Solle valley and its heights. The viewpoint circuit offers an exceptional panorama of the entire racecourse from the heights above. This elevated perspective allows visitors to appreciate the sheer scale of the site and its perfect integration into the forest setting.

Denecourt-Colinet trail no. 3 passes through a remarkable vantage point overlooking the racecourse, offering a breathtaking view of the tracks and grandstands nestling in the greenery. Hikers can also take the Cabaret Masson loop, which circles the racecourse via the heights above it, crossing the Hauteurs de la Solle and Gros Fouteau biological reserves. These itineraries help visitors understand the unique location of this racecourse in the heart of the national forest.

All in all, theHippodrome de la Solle has a lot to offer, with its history and activities open to all. This family activity in Seine-et-Marne combines sport, history and conviviality in an unspoilt setting. A great discovery for those looking for an alternative to traditional Ile-de-France leisure activities, to be combined with a visit to the Château de Fontainebleau or a walk in the forest.