Forest of Fontainebleau
1 / 7
Forest of Fontainebleau - by Olivier M on Unsplash
Description
The Forest of Fontainebleau is centred around the towns of Fontainebleau and Avon. It covers an area of 25,000ha of which 2,350 is protected forest with oak and Scots pine the dominant tree species. The forest was mostly planted from the 15th century onward to be used as hunting grounds for the Kings staying at the nearby Chateau de Fontainebleau and to supply wood. In the public's imagination however, it is mostly known for having inspired the impressionist artists and the Barbizon School (named after a nearby village) during the XIX century. Nowadays, it is a popular weekend destination for regional residents with no less than 365kms of marked trails including the GR1, GR11 and the start of the GR13. Bouldering and horse riding are other popular activities.
Access & Transport
Fontainebleau is in the Seine-et-Marne department, 60km southeast of Paris Public transport from Paris: regional train (TER) from Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau OR Line R to Fontainebleau-Avon. By car, take the A6 and exit toward N37/N7/Fontainebleau.
Instructions & Recommendations
If you are planning to walk / hike, make sure to wear appropriate shoes and carry some water. We suggest combining this activity with an exploration of the village of Barbizon (for lunch maybe) and a visit to either the Chateau de Fontainebleau or the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte (best if you have a car).
Environmental & Social
This is an environment friendly activity. Socially positive as it provides a high-quality environment to regional residents and the surrounding villages.
Conclusion
The forest is the perfect day trip from Paris when combined with one of the chateaux and village around: a mix of physical and cultural activities in an envoyable natural environment. Do not however expect densely wooded hills as far as the eyes can see, the area is quite flat (some may prefer that and others not) and the trees quite "spread out".
Key positive
Plenty of trails and different activities possible
Easy to get to from Paris
Key negative
None
Suitability
Visitors with reduced mobility will have access to some but not all paths. There are several roads criss-crossing the forest that can be used to explore around
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h
est. visit time:3h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo