Hike in the “Fontainebleau Forest” an exceptional forest

The Forest of Fontainebleau is a wooded massif which allows a wide choice of hiking. All forms of nature walks are accessible, ranging from Sunday family walking, to high levels to long hikes over several days. The forest is marked out by a network of listed paths where visitors can easily move around without getting lost with a hiking map published by the IGN (National Geographic Institute).

Former hunting grounds of the Kings of France, the Forest of Fontainebleau offers a total change of scenery to the walker. The diversity of its landscapes leads to the discovery of little-known panoramas in one of the most beautiful green settings in the Ile de France. The forest can be discovered through numerous pedestrian, equestrian and sled dog activities. It is a site surrounded by nature that is appreciated for climbing its famous rocks with surprising shapes that make one think of animals or objects.

This exceptional forest is a precious reservoir of biodiversity. The most represented flora is mainly composed of oaks, pines, beeches, hardwoods and other various conifers. The Fauna is home to around 54 species of mammals. Among the largest mammals are boars, stags or roe deer. The Forest is also home to over 200 species of birds and 11 species of reptiles. Without forgetting the insects and molluscs which have found refuge in the forest.

The Forest of Fontainebleau has inspired many artists such as the Barbizon painters since the 19th century. Among the most famous impressionist painters who come to paint the forest are Théodore Rousseau, Claude Monet, Auguste Renoir, Paul Cézanne and many more. Poets and writers have also found inspiration in the forest, such as George Sand and Alfred de Musset, who have been there several times.

Cultural heritage to discover With an area of ​​20,272 hectares, the forest is only sixty kilometers from Paris. The Forest of Fontainebleau 77300, is managed by the National Forestry Office.

The forest is easily accessible by the Transilien line R, leaving from Gare de Lyon, Bois le Roi or Avon stop. By car via the A6 motorway towards Lyon, exit Fontainebleau.

About The Author