Initially, I was looking for a green hike that was easily accessible by public transport. It was thanks to the Randonavigo website, a veritable goldmine of ideas for car-free walkers, that I discovered the Comelle ponds hike.

So we opted for this nature getaway, leaving the car aside to avoid traffic jams... and because Vaïka, accustomed to the metro and trains since she was little, travels without any problem.

From Paris Gare du Nord, a regional train (TER) took us in just 20 minutes to Orry-la-Ville, the starting point of our hike. On Saturday morning, a train ran every half hour; we chose the 9:06 a.m. train to enjoy the cool air and avoid the crowds. A good idea: the regional train was almost empty and air-conditioned.

On the way back, we tried the RER D… and it's a different story: almost 50 minutes to Châtelet, lots of stops and a train that quickly fills up. Since direct trains are rare in the afternoon, it's best to check the timetables in advance to optimize your breaks or lunch. We improvised and missed the 3:12 p.m. train, but found refuge right next to the station in a small brasserie ( l'Orée du bois ). Ideal for waiting in the shade: Vaïka enjoyed the terrace under a parasol, on a fake grass floor. The manager was very friendly, even if the waitress—who was afraid of dogs—gave us a more lukewarm welcome.

In short, if you can, really choose the TER option: fast, comfortable and air-conditioned, unlike the RER D which is long and often crowded.