International Forest Day 2024: free guided tours of the Fontainebleau forest

At a time when Parisians are increasingly looking to reconnect with nature, International Forest Day is making a comeback this Thursday, March 21. To mark the occasion, a number of events will be held across France. This is particularly true of Fontainebleau Tourisme, which is inviting young and old to (re)discover the famous forest of Fontainebleau during exclusive tours to be experienced on Saturday March 16 and Sunday March 17, 2024.

To mark International Forest Day 2024, Fontainebleau Tourisme, in partnership with Les Amis de la Forêt and a local guide, is offering two free guided tours of the Fontainebleau forest. These outings, combining culture and biodiversity, offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the ecological and historical diversity of this forest, classified as a Forêt d'Exception and a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.

Renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, the Forest of Fontainebleau is home to over 5,685 plant species and 6,000 animal species. It is a model of sustainable forest management, illustrated by its Forêt d'Exception® label. This natural heritage is also rich in history, thanks in particular to Claude-François Denecourt who, as early as 1842, created the first signposted footpaths, contributing to the development of nature tourism in France.

The first guided tour highlights Sentier Bleu 2, dotted withremarkable trees, rocks and ancient fountains, including the famous Tour Denecourt. The starting point for this cultural walk is the Auberge de la Croix d'Augas, offering a convivial setting for post-tour exchanges.

The second outing explores the biodiversity and geology of the forest, with a route through rocky chaos and caves, and includes an introduction to sylvotherapy. This forest bath promises a deep reconnection with nature, enriched by the discovery of Fontainebleau's unique ecosystems.

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These initiatives are part of a sustainable tourism approach aimed at raising visitors' awareness of the need to preserve this exceptional natural area. The Pays de Fontainebleau Tourist Office, in close collaboration with the ONF and the Friends of the Forest, offers educational and entertaining activities throughout the year to help visitors discover and protect the forest.

To take part in these free guided tours, you need to book online, as places are limited. These activities are accessible to all those comfortable with walking, with the exception of people with reduced mobility and strollers, and pets must be kept on a leash.

International Forest Day, established by the UN in 2011 and celebrated on March 21, aims to promote the knowledge and preservation of forests around the world. In France, the event is coordinated by the Teragir association, and invites to a week of discoveries and activities from March 16 to 24 to raise public awareness of the importance of forest ecosystems.