Point de vue sur l

Updated June 11, 2025

Description

If you’re on the lookout for a spot that packs a punch without the usual tourist frenzy, the Point de vue sur l’hippodrome de la Solle is a refreshing find. Right off the beaten path in Fontainebleau, this viewpoint sits above the hippodrome—yep, the horse racing track—and offers a chance to soak in some seriously peaceful vibes along with great scenery. It’s not one of those flashy attractions with a swarm of visitors, which honestly makes it all the more special in my book.

What I love about this place is how it effortlessly combines nature and local culture. You’re not just staring at an empty field; instead, you’ve got this dynamic backdrop of the racetrack, horses sometimes trotting in the distance, and the gentle rolling landscape that spreads out in every direction. It’s a perfect pause button for those who want to catch their breath while exploring Fontainebleau’s more well-known spots like the forest or the château.

And since it’s good for kids, it’s a neat little family-friendly stop — not the kind of place that drains your patience with endless walking or complicated trails. It’s straightforward, accessible, and offers children a chance to watch something different than their usual playground scenery. I remember once taking my niece here; she was fascinated by the horses and the idea of a racetrack, which is far from her everyday museum visits or playground antics.

Key Features

• Elevated vantage point giving clear views of the hippodrome and surrounding countryside
• Child-friendly location, easy to navigate for families with kids
• Peaceful atmosphere — a quiet retreat from bustling tourist hubs
• Excellent spot for photography enthusiasts aiming to capture unique angles of Fontainebleau’s equestrian culture
• Proximity to natural surroundings makes it a nice stop during outdoor excursions around Fontainebleau
• Accessible by car or on foot from nearby trails, with no complicated route planning required
• Opportunity to glimpse local equestrian events if your timing is right (though no guarantee of scheduled races)

Best Time to Visit

If you ask me, the best times to swing by the Point de vue sur l’hippodrome de la Solle are during the spring and early autumn months. The weather then tends to be just right — not too hot, not too gloomy — which makes standing around soaking up the view much more enjoyable. Imagine a mild breeze cooling your face while you watch the sun dance across the hills. Perfect, right?

Midweek mornings can be the sweet spot if you want to practically have the viewpoint to yourself. Weekends might attract a few more locals or horse race fans, but nothing overwhelming. And if you happen to visit when the hippodrome has an event (they’re occasional and usually well-spread out across the year), you get that added buzz without the chaos of a major event.

A heads up — winter isn’t the best here. It can get dreary and cold, and the views lose a bit of their sparkle. But hey, if you like crisp air and don’t mind bundling up, it can still be a moody, atmospheric kind of adventure.

How to Get There

Reaching this viewpoint is pretty straightforward, which is a relief because navigating small French country roads can sometimes feel like a scavenger hunt you never signed up for. If you’re coming by car, just follow the road called Rte Tournante des Hauteurs de la Solle. It’s a scenic drive itself — you’ll get glimpses of the surrounding greenery that set the stage for what’s waiting ahead.

Parking is limited but usually not a headache. Just a heads up, it’s one of those spots where you have to be a bit patient and accept a short walk from wherever you park. But that’s part of the charm — the walk up subtly amps up the anticipation for the view.

For those who prefer public transport, well, Fontainebleau’s area isn’t exactly flooded with bus routes that stop right at this viewpoint. However, you can always take local transport to Fontainebleau town center and then either rent a bike or embark on a casual hike to reach the viewpoint. The trails connecting Fontainebleau to the hippodrome are quite pleasant for anyone who fancies blending some gentle exercise with sightseeing.

Tips for Visiting

Come prepared with some good walking shoes — the ground can be a little uneven here and there. Trust me, nothing kills a chill vibe like a twisted ankle or sore feet. Also, pack a small picnic if you’re up for it; there’s something about munching on a sandwich while watching the rural landscape unfold that feels downright meditative.

Try to time your visit for either early morning or late afternoon. The sunlight then is softer, shadows longer, and the whole scene just seems more dramatic — perfect if you’re into snapping memorable photos. And if you’re a bit impatient (like me), bring a pair of binoculars. You’ll catch the finer details on the hippodrome — the horses warming up, jockeys preparing — little behind-the-scenes moments that make the place come alive.

Also, keep an eye on the weather forecast. This spot doesn’t offer much shelter, so a sudden shower can catch you off guard. I learned this the hard way once — got drenched but ended up finding a nearby spot to chat with some locals who shared quirky stories about the area. So, even if the weather turns sour, don’t let it completely spoil your adventure.

Lastly, respect the quietness of the place. It’s not a party zone or a commercial attraction. The beauty here is in the calm and simplicity, so try to keep noise levels down and take only memories (and maybe photos) with you when you leave.

Key Highlights

• Elevated vantage point giving clear views of the hippodrome and surrounding countryside
• Child-friendly location, easy to navigate for families with kids
• Peaceful atmosphere — a quiet retreat from bustling tourist hubs
• Excellent spot for photography enthusiasts aiming to capture unique angles of Fontainebleau’s equestrian culture
• Proximity to natural surroundings makes it a nice stop during outdoor excursions around Fontainebleau
• Accessible by car or on foot from nearby trails, with no complicated route planning required
• Opportunity to glimpse local equestrian events if your timing is right (though no guarantee of scheduled races)

Location

Places to Stay Near Point de vue sur l'hippodrome de la Solle

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