Discover Santeny: Heritage and Nature

Santeny offers several ways to explore during a stay: architectural and agricultural history, walks and equestrian activities. Historic farms, a washhouse and the château each offer a different perspective; the Forêt de Notre-Dame and the regularly held La Santenoise charity sporting event round out the picture. If you are looking for a hotel in Santeny, these highlights can help you plan your trip. For events and current activity offerings, check dates and availability in advance.

Farms, château and lavoir

The Ferme du Marais was already in existence in the 11th century. Renovations in the 19th century gave it the style of a typical Brie farmhouse. This building therefore brings together an early structure and a later architectural character. The Ferme des Lyons is also a typical Brie farmhouse and a testament to the region’s former agricultural activity. While the Ferme du Marais also offers a glimpse of building history spanning several centuries, the Ferme des Lyons is particularly associated with Brie’s agriculture.

The Château de Santeny was built in 1868 from limestone and slate. Its eclectic 19th-century design is also reflected in turrets that have a neo-Gothic or neo-medieval appearance. The château is open to the general public only as part of special events. Concerts are held regularly; check the specific event and opening arrangements before visiting.

The Lavoir, Fontaine Richard, is a covered communal washhouse dating from the 19th century. Set into its wall is a fountain plaque bearing the year 1772 and the coat of arms of the Richard family. The date belongs to the plaque and does not date the washhouse. Two different historical periods are thus represented here: the 19th-century washhouse and the older plaque.

The Church of Saint-Germain in Santeny probably dates back to the 13th century. It is not open to the public except during Mass and ceremonies. If you are interested in its early architectural history, this dating is one of the town’s cultural highlights; the access restrictions are also important to bear in mind when planning a visit.

Forest, water and walks

The Forêt de Notre-Dame borders Santeny to the north and has been classified as a protected forest since 25 May 2016. The Réveillon is a small, non-navigable watercourse in the Brie region, used for walks and recreation. One specifically described route starts on long, surfaced walking paths in Villecresnes, passes through the Marolles golf course and ends at the body of water known as “La Queue de Poêle” in Santeny. This distinguishes the general association with walks along the Réveillon from the route described here. Check current trail conditions before setting out.

Equestrian activities and La Santenoise

The Écurie du Parc des Lyons offers riding lessons from beginner to competition level. Guided pony rides are available for young children, as well as horseback rides in the Forêt de Notre-Dame. Lessons, pony rides and forest rides are different types of activity. Confirm availability directly with the Écurie; for horseback rides, also check the route conditions.

La Santenoise is a regularly held charity sporting event in Santeny. The event includes a 5 km run or 5 km walk, as well as runs of 5, 11 and 20 kilometres. The walk and run over the same distance differ in their form of exercise; the 11- and 20-kilometre options add longer running distances. Dates, routes and participation requirements may vary from one edition to another. If the event is important to your travel plans, check the details for the relevant edition.

When planning a hotel stay, this presents a clear contrast: the buildings offer historical and architectural themes, while La Santenoise and the equestrian activities depend on specific dates or current availability. First consider whether your stay will focus mainly on heritage, walks or an activity; if you are planning around an event, the information for the relevant edition is especially important.

Discover more destinations: Villeneuve-Saint-Georges, Limeil-Brévannes, Vitry-Sur-Seine, Ivry-Sur-Seine, Fresnes, La Queue-en-Brie, Créteil, Sucy-En-Brie.

Return to the main travel overview: Val-De-Marne.