Club Naturiste du Soleil de l'Essonne

D'Huison-Longueville is the starting point for three splendid circular walks through the glades and woods of the surrounding valley, varying in length between four and a half and 10 kilometres. If you fancy combining your wild side with a bit of a culture, there's a canny walk at Vaudoué (30 minutes) where the rocky forested trail leads through human history via artworks among the trees. Rambles in the saddle are another fine way to take in the sights: an equestrian centre is close to the site in Orveau 10 minutes' drive away. If you've picked up a taste for the hunter-gatherer lifestyle during your stay, then try catching supper in the pools and ponds around Vayres-sur-Essonne (15 minutes' drive, permit required). While you're gazing into the waters, glance up and consider where they're going... the Essonne joins the Seine as it flows into Paris, and you could be there too in an hour's drive, to swap the peaceful vibe of your forest berth with a look at the bling of Louis XIV's gilded playground palace, Versailles. For the medieval equivalent, mosey over to the mega cathedral at Chartres, an hour and 20 minutes from the site.