Palace of Fontainebleau Forest
Île-de-France
The Palace of Fontainebleau Forest, located in the Île-de-France region near the town of Fontainebleau, is a vast natural massif spanning approximately 25,000 hectares, of which over 17,000 hectares form the state-managed Fontainebleau Forest. This forest has been a source of inspiration for numerous 19th-century artists, including the Barbizon School painters and Impressionists, as well as photographers, writers, and poets. It features diverse landscapes such as woodlands, heathlands, and remarkable rocky outcrops known as "chaos." The forest is historically significant, with evidence of human presence dating back 40,000 years, including prehistoric stone tools and over 2,000 rock engravings from the Mesolithic period. The forest has served multiple roles throughout history, from a royal hunting ground to a strategic military resource, providing timber for construction and heating. Today, it holds the prestigious designation of France's first "Forêt d'Exception®," reflecting its ecological, cultural, and historical importance. It continues to attract millions of visitors annually who enjoy hiking, climbing, and exploring its rich heritage and natural beauty.
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Tip: The best time to visit the Palace of Fontainebleau Forest is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the foliage is particularly beautiful. Visitors are encouraged to explore the well-marked trails pioneered by Claude François Denecourt, the father of green tourism. Due to the forest's vastness and popularity, purchasing maps or visiting the local tourist office in Fontainebleau can enhance the experience. While there is no entrance fee, some guided tours or climbing activities may offer discounts for groups or children. It's advisable to wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Interesting facts
- •The forest contains over 2,000 prehistoric rock engravings dating from the Mesolithic period.
- •It inspired famous 19th-century artists such as the Barbizon School painters and Impressionists.
- •The forest was the first in France to receive the "Forêt d'Exception®" label in 2013, recognizing its unique ecological and cultural heritage.
- •Claude François Denecourt created the first marked hiking trails in the forest during the 19th century, pioneering green tourism.
- •Parts of the forest have not been subject to clear-cut logging since 1372, preserving ancient woodland areas.
History
The forest's human history begins around 40,000 years ago, with nomadic populations leaving stone tools and animal bones.
Over millennia, it was inhabited and utilized by Gauls and Celts, with villages established around its perimeter.
By the 11th century, the forest was fragmented among local lords until King Philip I acquired the region in 1067, bringing it under royal control.
Fontainebleau became a royal hunting preserve, with the first royal residence documented in 1137 under Louis VII.
The forest's management evolved significantly in the 16th century under Francis I, who expanded the royal chateau and established formal forest administration, including the role of Grand Forestier to oversee its preservation and use.
The forest has been protected and celebrated since the 19th century, notably inspiring artists and pioneering early nature tourism.
Place Guide
Rocky Outcrops (Chaos de Fontainebleau)
These unique sandstone rock formations create a dramatic landscape ideal for hiking and bouldering, attracting climbers worldwide.
Mesolithic Rock Engravings9000-5500 BC
Over 2,000 engravings scattered throughout the forest depict animals and abstract forms, offering insights into prehistoric human life.
Historic Royal Hunting Grounds11th century onwards
The forest was historically used by French monarchs as a royal hunting preserve, contributing to the establishment of the nearby Palace of Fontainebleau.
Contact
Phone: 01 60 74 99 99
