Normandy has several large regional parks and preserves. Each has substantial opportunities for running — ranging from easier trails and cycle paths to more rugged trail running. Use this as an overview, then consult the parks’ websites to find your best route!
Parc naturel régionaldes Boucles de la Seine Normande (Seine Regional Park). A large park between Rouen and Honfleur. Vast running opportunities, including sections of bikeway along the River Seine and 750 miles of signposted walking trails along coastline, across plains and through valleys, forests and marshes.
Parc Regional Les Marais du Cotentin et du Bessi.This huge regional park is located just west of Omaha Beach. This wetland park features more than 1550 km of paths and hikes, plus numerous cycleways that are great for running. Go to the Maison de Parc visitor center on the D974. This fantastic interactive map is a great resource. Click on A Vélo for cycle trails or A Pied for walking/hiking trails, then click on the individual trails for more detailed information. GPX files of the trails can be downloaded.
Parc naturel régional du Perche. Larve park covering over 1,800km² around Mortagne au Perche, Bellême and Nogent le Rotrou in far southern Normandy. Running highlights are trails through the extensive beech and and oak trees forests. This fantastic interactive map is a great resource. Click on A Vélo for cycle trails or A Pied for walking/hiking trails, then click on the individual trails for more detailed information.
Parc naturel régional et Géoparc Normandie-Maine. Huge regional park covering 500,000 acres near Parc Régional du Perche, on the west side of the A28. Scenic river trail and extensive old growth forests.
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