Le tour du massif de Fontainebleau, the great hike to discover a mythical forest

Published by Margot de Sortiraparis · Photos by My de Sortiraparis · Updated on July 22, 2025 at 09:27 a.m.
Known as the TMF in hiking circles, the Tour du Massif de Fontainebleau offers a wide-ranging itinerary to tackle the most emblematic forest in the Île-de-France region.

Fancy a hike? Head for the Fontainebleau forest, a vast 22,000-hectare natural area where a change of scenery is the order of the day.

If you're talking about hiking in the Paris region, you'll almost certainly hear the name of this mythical forest massif: Fontainebleau. And with good reason: it's here that you'll find beautiful vertical drops (both positive and negative), something rare enough in the region to be mentioned to aficionados of the discipline.

So get to know the nooks and crannies of this magnificent forest like the back of your hand by embarking on a hiking adventure: 74 kilometers to cover over four stages, on the Tour du Massif de Fontainebleau. In all, the tour passes through three state-owned forests: Commanderie, Trois Pignons and Fontainebleau.

The TMF starts at Fontainebleau-Avon station (accessible by Transilien), but as the itinerary forms a loop, you can choose to start at Bourron-Marlotte station. It's easy to follow: just like a long-distance hiking trail, you need to follow the markings on the trees or rocks, i.e. the green and white markings on the path.

Stages of the Tour du Massif de Fontainebleau (for information only) :

  • Day 1: Fontainebleau to Bourron-Marlotte
  • Day 2: Bourron-Marlotte to Ermitage de Franchard
  • Day 3: Ermitage de Franchard to Bois-le-Roi
  • Day 4: Bois-le-Roi to Fontainebleau-Avon
  • download official route in .gpx format

As with any hike, and even more so here as the path is demanding, you'll need to be in good physical condition, have good walking shoes (these are essential, especially as the rocks at Fontainebleau are very slippery), and don't forget to bring something to eat for the day, at least two liters of water per person, sun cream and a cap! Have a great hike!

Practical information

Location

77300 Fontainebleau
77300 Fontainebleau

Route planner

Accessibility info

Prices
Free

Official website
www.fontainebleau-tourisme.com

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