Visiting Plailly
Plailly is a small town in the Oise department of the Hauts-de-France region. Home to about 1,700 residents, it is best known as the location of the famous Parc Astérix. If you are staying in the area, you are likely here for the theme park dedicated to the Gaulish comic book heroes. However, it would be a shame to visit without exploring the rest of Plailly.
Quieter attractions and walks
The primary draw is clearly Parc Astérix, which attracts over 2 million visitors annually, hitting a record high in 2017. Founded in 1989, the park based on the stories by Goscinny and Uderzo remains a major destination for all ages.
Beyond the summer crowds near the park, Plailly offers quieter spots for visitors. The Cavée du Gué is a charming nature park that is particularly popular with families. The area is set up for public observation of the local wetlands flora and fauna. Sheep and goats graze here during the warmer months, and you can see beehives in April.
Plailly also features several walking trails in the surrounding woods. One of the best known is the Christ à Bouchard trail, which starts in the center of town and takes you through the forest. The Morrière woods are noted for their diverse landscape, specifically the striking sandstone boulders scattered along the path. The Pierre Monconseil is the most notable landmark in this area.
Period churches and castles
The town retains significant historical and cultural character. The église Saint-Martin, a registered historical monument since 1862, is a compelling site. Built in the early 12th century in the primitive Gothic style, its foundations suggest even earlier origins. Architecture buffs will spot the influence of the nearby Senlis Cathedral. After leaving the church, take a look at the fountain in the place de l'Église. Plailly is also home to several châteaux, such as Bertrandfosse and Vallière. While only ruins remain of Montmélian (12th to 15th centuries), the two-meter-thick walls that are still standing are worth a look.
For more architectural interest, see the Propriété Hamet, built at the end of the 19th century by a Parisian ironworker. The brick and stone residence features an impressive wrought-iron gate.
When to go
You can visit Plailly year-round, though you should align your travel dates with the opening schedule of Parc Astérix. The park is open from April through November, with continuous daily operations from mid-June to late August.
Getting there
The drive from Paris to Plailly is quick, taking about 55 minutes via the A1 and A3 highways. You can also take the RER commuter train from the capital toward the Oise department, followed by a bus. Dedicated shuttles run directly from Paris to Parc Astérix, placing you right on the doorstep of Plailly.
I spent one night there for Parc Astérix. Cute and bucolic, you get into the greenery really quickly.