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Forest of Fontainebleau

1 Route de l'Ermitage, Fontainebleau, Île-de-France

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).

Meta review

The forest is seldom advertised internationally but is very well known in the Paris region as perhaps the closest wooden area of that size near the capital. Reviews are almost only all positive with visitors highlighting the well-marked and varied trails, the beautiful colours especially in spring and the fall, several visually interesting rock formations and the overall relaxing atmosphere in this natural environment.

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

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:1h

est. visit time:3h

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightNo

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

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