The Île-de-France province of north-central France is often associated with urbanisation and asphalt. However, once you leave Paris and its inner suburbs, the reality is quite different; fields and forests dotted with villages stretch out before you. Even though nature has reclaimed the landscape, the City of Light is never far away and influences the region's heritage.

The GR 11 is a 664-kilometre (413 mi) loop through the inner suburbs that aims to raise awareness of this sometimes forgotten face of the Île-de-France region. In the north, part of the route even goes beyond the boundaries of the region.

Because of the length of the route, I've divided it into four sections of between 135 and 190 kilometres (84 - 118 mi). Fast hikers could complete each section in a week but if you want to take your time, allow up to two weeks.

The first section plunges into the very heart of the Île-de-France countryside, crossing three of the region's four nature parks: Haute Vallée de Chevreuse, French Vexin and Oise-Pays de France. The second reveals the heritage of the Île-de-France, linking towns such as Chantilly, Senlis and Coulommiers. The third leads along the banks of the Seine in eastern Paris to the beautiful and famous Forest of Fontainebleau. The final section takes on a very natural character in the Gâtinais and Vallée de Chevreuse natural parks.

The route is well-served by trains on the Paris region network, making it easy to adapt the route to your preferences. From a simple day hike to hiking the entire trail, the choice is yours. All of the sections in this Collection start and finish at a train station.

If you stay on the official route, you may sometimes find it difficult to find accommodation and supplies. As such, you’ll need to consult the map and travel a few extra kilometres to take advantage of all the amenities in the Paris region.

Weather conditions are seldom extreme in Île-de-France. The GR 11 can therefore be walked all year round, although spring and summer are often more pleasant. Be sure to adapt your equipment to the season and always take a waterproof jacket and a good pair of walking shoes.

I hope this Collection will help you visualise your walking adventure through the Île-de-France region. Whether it's the valleys of the west, the heritage of the north, the river landscapes of the east or the forests of the south, you'll be spoilt for choice. Happy reading and happy hiking.