Saint-Prix can be explored through two distinctive facets: the Montmorency Forest covers two thirds of the municipality, while churches, fountains and historic buildings tell the story of a long history. Orchards are also part of the town’s character. Visitors wishing to combine culture and landscape during their stay will find a range of themes here, from medieval origins to forest ecology and local products.
Churches and history in the Vieux-Village
The Église Saint-Prix, also known as the Église Saint-Germain, was built in the 13th century on the site of an older building dating from the 11th century. Its construction history therefore spans an early predecessor and the later church. In Saint-Prix’s Vieux-Village, a church’s furnishings also include works from the 16th to the 19th century. Both the long construction history and the later works are relevant to understanding the town’s cultural history.
Castle, fountains and buildings in the forest
The Château de la Chasse, originally called Chasse Mornay, is located in the state-owned Montmorency Forest within the municipality of Saint-Prix and has been listed as a Monument historique since 1933. Two educational trails start at the château: one focuses on forest ecology, the other on forestry techniques. If you plan to take part in these educational activities, check their availability locally before your trip. The Cimetière Bosc has also been listed as a Monument historique since 1933; it is surrounded by the vegetation of the Montmorency Forest.
Other historical connections can be seen in a variety of buildings. The Fontaine aux Pèlerins dates back to 1300. A pilgrimage associated with it developed from the 15th century onwards, centred on the relics of Saint-Prix. The Tour du Plumet was built in 1863 in the state-owned Montmorency Forest as a 22-metre-high hunting lodge. Together, these sites offer a glimpse into different periods and functions, and their stories are not limited to a single building.
Slopes, orchards and apple juice
In 2002, the municipality and the Val d’Oise Department designated the slopes and orchards of Saint-Prix as an ENSIL, a local sensitive natural area of special interest. The designation was intended to help enhance the area. An apple harvest takes place every year in the ENS orchards. The apples are made into apple juice, which is 100 per cent organic and bottled locally. The harvest is a recurring annual event, but dates and participation requirements may change.
Educational trails, a hiking trail and exploring independently
The activities vary in scope and format: two themed educational trails start at the Château de la Chasse, while the Sentier des Lisières is an almost 30-kilometre hiking trail. It covers the areas of 17 municipalities on the edge of the Montmorency Massif and connects tourist and cultural attractions in the municipalities it passes through. Signposted sections help with navigation; check the signage and trail conditions locally.
Another way to discover Saint-Prix’s Haut-Bourg is the “Histoire & nature gourmande” experience. It offers a self-guided exploration: a digital tablet locates visitors and points out places of interest. The experience explores Saint-Prix’s rural identity and its well-preserved terroir, including grapes, apples and honey. Check the latest content and booking options before your trip.
Planning your journey
Bus routes in the Plaine Vallée area now start with number 15. Municipal transport information also refers to trains and Line H. For a specific journey, check the current journey planners from Île-de-France Mobilités and Transilien. This allows you to plan your trip using the connection you need, without treating bus and rail information as one and the same local transport service.
Discover more destinations: Ermont, Eaubonne, Theuville, Andilly, Vigny, Saint-Cyr-en-Arthies, Le Plessis-Luzarches, Ronquerolles.
For the broader travel guide: Val-D'oise.
