GR 12, GR footpath
The GR 12 is a long walking trail that stretches over many kilometers from Belgium to the Île-de-France, crossing varied terrain and landscapes. The route passes through dense forests in the Ardennes, moves across limestone hills in the north, and includes historical ruins and old buildings that mark former military sites and royal hunting grounds.
The path was originally an old trade route used by farmers and merchants moving goods between towns across different regions. The area later became a site of military importance with fortifications that defended the land and served as royal hunting grounds.
The path winds through rural villages with traditional houses and farms where locals move at a slow pace and spend time outdoors. Travelers notice everyday scenes such as laundry drying in the sun, children playing outside, and farmers working in fields, which convey a sense of stepping into a different way of life.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring water and snacks, as shops are not common along the route. Spring and early autumn are the best times to walk when the weather is mild and suits most walkers of different fitness levels.
The route is marked with red and white or yellow signs that guide walkers clearly along the path, making navigation straightforward for most people. The ponds at Commelles are quiet spots where many bird species gather, and deer and wild boars occasionally appear in the surrounding forest.
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