Les sables du Cul de Chien
In the Forest of Trois-Pignons, there is a unique sandy area called the Les sables du Cul de Chien. This place, surrounded by trees and rocks, is popular among walkers, climbers, and horseback riders. It is located near the parking lot at Roche aux Sabots in Noisy-sur-École, where parking can be difficult, especially on weekends because of all the boulderers (people climbing boulders).
To reach the sands from the entrance of Noisy-sur-École, it is about twenty minutes walk through the forest. Strangely shaped boulders on your right are great for children to try their hand at bouldering or just running around. Continue straight up the path until you get to a crossroads and then take the sandy path that goes up the hill to reach the forest beach.
This sandy area, often called a "sea of sand" without water, is a geological wonder. Millions of years ago, a warm ocean covered this region, leaving behind quartz that eventually turned into fine sand, considered some of the finest in the world. Surrounding the sandy area are various sizes of sandstone blocks, including a famous one known as le bilboquet which resembles a small dog's head.
On a hot day you may want to take lots of water but most days a picnic is a nice idea. Sometimes there are a lot of people "at the beach" with volley ball games and picnics and children running around helter skelter. It can be a lot of fun.
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