Gorges de Franchard
The Gorges de Franchard, part of Fontainebleau Forest, offers visitors a blend of history, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. Here, trails take visitors through a variety of landscapes, including heathlands, boulder fields, and impressive oak groves.
One of the area’s highlights is the "Eye of Nations" monument. This symbolic landmark, created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), reflects global commitment to environmental conservation. Inaugurated in 1998, the monument features a heart of Fontainebleau oak encircled in bronze, surrounded by a plaque listing the names of countries dedicated to preserving natural spaces.
Another point of interest is the historic Franchard Hermitage, originally founded in the 12th century. This remote retreat attracted hermits and monks for centuries. Although it was repeatedly abandoned due to conflicts and insecurity, it was restored and eventually transformed into a forest keeper’s house. The structure, now mostly ruins, includes remnants of walls and a chapel, both of which provide a glimpse into the area’s long spiritual and monastic history. Over the centuries, the site endured multiple attacks and destruction, especially during the Hundred Years' War. Legends even tell of monks hiding treasures in the forest before fleeing. By the 18th century, the place had become a dangerous refuge for bandits, leading to a royal decree to dismantle it in 1717. Only the forest keeper’s house, added during the reign of Louis-Philippe in the 19th century, remains on these historic grounds.
In the 19th century, this forested area became popular for outdoor recreation. Claude-François Denecourt, a naturalist known for promoting Fontainebleau, guided visitors such as the Duchess Hélène d'Orléans and her children through these trails. Denecourt’s influence helped Fontainebleau gain popularity as a destination for nature lovers and hikers.
Today, the Franchard Ecotourism Center supports sustainable tourism through environmental education, guided nature walks, and exhibitions. Programs for both adults and children focus on conservation and sustainable practices to ensure that the natural beauty of the forest is preserved for future generations.
With its incredible landscapes, Fontainebleau Forest attracts hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts who come to experience its beauty. The forest holds special sites, including the "Fontaine des Ermites," a legendary spring historically believed to have healing properties. Today, visitors can enjoy not only the rich history but also the beauty and biodiversity of Fontainebleau, knowing that conservation efforts are in place to protect this unique environment.
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