Varreddes: Waterways, Walking Trails and Saint-Arnould Church

Varreddes lies at an altitude of 52 metres and is surrounded by water. A loop of the Canal de l’Ourcq runs north of the village and meets the Marne to the south on both sides. Highlights for a stay include trails of varying lengths, Saint-Arnould Church and a local farm pasta producer.

Walking trails of varying lengths

The 3 km Parcours vitalité connects Varreddes’ four vitality areas and is open to everyone all year round. Check local access conditions before your visit. The 10 km Parcours la Ravetonne is designed for discovering the area around Varreddes on a more athletic walk. The 15 km Parcours entre deux eaux climbs to the heights, offers views of the surrounding area and includes steep paths described as very challenging.

The distances of 3, 10 and 15 km make it easy to compare trail lengths. The route profile also matters when choosing: la Ravetonne is described as a more athletic walk, while entre deux eaux includes steep, very challenging paths. Marked walking trails start at Place Charles de Gaulle, opposite the town hall. They are intended for physical activity and for discovering the town and its surroundings.

The towpath is also connected to long-distance hiking: the section between Congis-sur-Thérouanne and the Maladrie bridge in Varreddes is also part of the GR 1B. At Meaux, this links the GR 1 “Tour de Paris” with the GR 11 “Grand Tour de Paris” at Lizy-sur-Ourcq.

The “Marne et canal à Varreddes” walk is described as a discovery walk through Varreddes and Germigny-l’Évêque, with sections along the banks of the Marne. It is free and open daily year-round from 0:00 to 23:59; parking is available and dogs are allowed.

Saint-Arnould Church and local history

Saint-Arnould Church has been listed as a historic monument since 22 August 1949. Saint Arnoul is considered the first patron saint of the church in Varreddes. The oldest sculptural representation of Saint Arnoul in Varreddes dates from the 14th century and is a limestone statue of a bishop.

Different materials can also be identified on the portal: the jambs and archivolts are made of Varreddes stone, while the tympanum is made of fine Parisian limestone. The two dates refer to different aspects of the heritage: the 14th century dates the statue, while 22 August 1949 marks the church’s listing as a historic monument.

The First World War is also part of the town’s history. During the Battle of the Marne, Varreddes was at the centre of the fighting.

Durum wheat and farm pasta

Around Varreddes, La Ferm' Meaux Pâtes grows durum wheat and turns it into handcrafted farm pasta. Fresh pasta is available in the shop, to order or at markets. If you are planning a visit, check the current visitor arrangements in advance.

Discover more destinations: Meaux, Lagny, Fontenay-Trésigny, Fericy, Vernou-La-Celle-Sur-Seine, Samois-Sur-Seine, Lizines, Lésigny.

For the broader travel overview: Seine-Et-Marne.