Interactive stroll in the forest of Méridon: "Mélida's tale, the spirit of the forest" in the Yvelines department

How about a walk in the forest? Whether you're a family or a couple, the forests of Yvelines have plenty to keep you entertained. This time, we're taking you to the Méridon forest, close to the Château de Méridon in the Vallée de Chevreuse, to discover a number of interactive walking trails.

This marked trail is available in two versions for all ages:

• A fantastic adventure for families (children aged 8 and over): "Le Gobelin de Méridon" takes us on the trail of a mysterious spirit that threatens the balance of the forest. The trail consists of 11 points along the way. Riddles and points of interest enrich the walk.
  
  
• An immersive exploration for adults: "A walk in the company of a forester", to discover the fauna, flora and secrets of this wooded massif in the footsteps of a specialist.

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This interactive experience is based on the free Balade Branchée app (on Google Play or IOS). All you need to do is download the route beforehand to access the content offline. On site, points of interest are automatically triggered, revealing enigmas and challenges related to the environment. For a more traditional approach, a game booklet is also available for download.

Departure is from the Méridon forest parking lot, on the route de Chevreuse in Boullay-le-Troux. Once you've downloaded the route using the QR code forunir on the signposts, you can start your walk by reading the various signs of the Conte de Mélida. Between wide forest lanes, steep paths and a former sandstone quarry, this walk reveals a rich, preserved ecosystem. The route is 4 to 5 km long and lasts around 1h30, or even 2h for the slowest.

Along the way, small signs keep you on the right track, and the app tells you when you're getting close to the various points.

The experience continues or begins with an unusual sound installation by Will Menter, a British artist who has lived in France since 1998. Through his sculptural works, the "xyloserpent" and the "woodline", he composes a score where wind, rain and walkers become musicians.

This initiative, supported by the Conseil départemental des Yvelines, is part of a program to preserve and enhance natural landscapes. A great opportunity to discover the forest in a different way, between nature and legend. In short, whether you're in the mood for an original stroll for two, or a family outing where the kids can play, this is a great idea. As an added bonus, you'll enjoy a view of the Château de la Madeleine and learn more about the flora and fauna of this Yvelines forest. Last but not least, the kids manage to flush out the Goblin Mérigob, and that's no mean feat!