In the heart of the Fontainebleau forest in Seine-et-Marne, the Grand Parquet is an emblematic part of France's equestrian heritage, renowned for the quality of its facilities and the diversity of its events.
When you arrive on the grounds of the Grand Parquet, you only have to look up at the surrounding pine trees to feel the weight of history. Once a hunting ground for the kings of France, this vast forest area was transformed in the 1920s into a mecca for equestrian sport. It became a key venue for the modern pentathlon at the 1924 Paris Olympic Games. Since then, horses have never left the site.
Over the decades, the Grand Parquet has modernized without losing its soul. Today, it is recognized as one of Europe's finest equestrian venues and has been awarded the label of preparation center for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. This recognition crowns a century of equestrian history and prestigious events.
The Grand Parquet covers some 30 hectares on the edge of the forest. As soon as you enter, you're struck by the sheer scale and diversity of its facilities. There are several large grass and sand arenas, grandstands for up to 1,125 people, nearly 250 horse stalls, stables, spacious parking lots and areas dedicated to catering.
There are six sand arenas and a presentation ring, as well as a grass main arena. The Grand Parquet's main arena, a vast 12,000 m² grass area, is the heart of prestigious equestrian competitions. Now equipped with a sub-irrigation system, it guarantees optimum ground quality in all seasons, offering enhanced comfort for horses and riders alike. Bordered by 512-seat uncovered bleachers and a grandstand that can accommodate 1,125 spectators, including 17 places reserved for people with reduced mobility, this emblematic arena is a benchmark venue for major sporting events.
The other quarries: Petit Parquet, carrière des Princes, carrière O' Delant, du Puits du Cormier, Diane, Spring Garden, offer spaces ranging from 2,500 to 8,000 m², some with bleachers. The more intimate Rond d'Havrincourt (496 m²) completes the ensemble for presentations and preparations. It's a real open-air equestrian village.
The site also offers space for seminars and business events. All easily accessible from Paris via the A6 or by train (Fontainebleau-Avon station).
During our visit, we were able to discover the Pony Games taking place that weekend, but on some weekends, you can also stroll down the aisles to discover a flea market set up in the shade of the trees. This duality sums up the spirit of the Grand Parquet: both a venue for international competitions and a friendly, family-friendly space. Many of the events are open to the public, providing a great opportunity to discover equestrian sports or dog training, for example.
On the equestrian side, the site hosts show jumping, dressage, Derby Cross, military competitions and pony games all year round. Major events such as the Fontainebleau Classic, the Printemps des Sports Equestres and the Grande Semaine de l'Élevage bring together the best riders and breeders in France and Europe.
But the Grand Parquet isn't just about horses. It also hosts events open to all, such as flea markets, nature fairs, cani-cross competitions and even beach rugby tournaments. It's this blend of equestrian tradition and festive spirit that makes the experience so rich.
The upcoming program is packed, with events taking place almost every month. Here are the main events to look out for between now and the end of 2025:
All these events are free to attend, in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The site also offers on-site catering, with food trucks and stalls set up depending on the event. In short, this is a site well worth discovering, for horse lovers and families alike.
Dates and Opening Time
Next days
Monday:
from 08:30 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Tuesday:
from 08:30 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Wednesday:
from 08:30 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Thursday:
from 08:30 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Friday:
from 08:30 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.
Location
The Grand Parquet de Fontainebleau
RN 152 Route d'Orléans
77300 Fontainebleau
Recommended age
For all
Official website
www.grandparquet.com
