The Orleans Forest
35,000 hectares of the 60,000 hectare Orleans Forest are managed by the ‘Office National des Forêts (ONF)’ making it the largest national forest in France.
The Orleans Forest, biodiversity and two hiking paths
35,000 hectares of the 60,000 hectare Orleans Forest are managed by the ‘Office National des Forêts (ONF)’ making it the largest national forest in France.
The GR3 hiking path runs through the forest from west to east and the GR32 runs from north to south criss-crossed with numerous other paths, well-marked and maintained by the ONF. So it is easy to explore all aspects of the mysterious forest in peace and tranquillity from its fringes to its very heart.
The Orleans Forest, a patchwork of habitats and rare species
Nature-wise the Forêt d’Orléans has amazing biodiversity, a patchwork of habitats and rare species comprising trees, lakes, ponds, chasms and springs, bracken undergrowth, carpets of heather, glades of lily-of-the-valley, bluebells and even blueberries !
Above all it is home to the birds of prey which are the crown jewels of this massive forest : 11 diurnal and 4 nocturnal species. The osprey nested for the first time in France on the Etang du Ravoir lake where an observatory allows you to watch the nesting and reproduction of this rare bird of prey which has become the symbol of the forest.
Forêt d'Orléans – a forest steeped in history
History-wise, the forest contains many traces of the foresters who maintained it and the men who for thousands of year sought refuge in it during wars and exploited its resources, from the first Celtic tumulus to the tragic days of the Resistance.
There are so many stories and legends to tell of ancient Roman roads, historic remains, memories of charcoal burners, woodmen and potters.
There are plenty of ways to explore this wonderful heritage : for a splendid bird’s eye view of the forest as far as the eye can see, head to the top of the 24-metre high Belvédère des Caillettes.
There are thousands of kilometres of forest tracks, bridle paths and footpaths to explore on foot, by bike or on horseback to keep you fit and fill your heart and mind with wonderful images.
Travel around Loiret with Gîtes de France Loiret : Orléans, Parc Floral de la Source, Château de Beaugency, Yevre la ville
For more information, go to www.tourismeloiret.com
Useful information : Belvédère des Caillettes
Address : Route forestière de Courcy-aux-Loges - 45340 NIBELLE"
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