Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Left Forêt d'Eu Right Abbaye de la Trappe, Forêt du Perche
Forests
Forêt d'Eawy
Although the name “Eawy”
(pronounced “Ee-a-vee”) means
wet pasture, this is a glorious
beech forest covering 72 sq km
(28 sq miles) on a jagged outcrop.
It was originally planted with
oaks, which were subsequently
cut down to build houses after
the Hundred Years' War. To see
other species, follow the Chemin
des Écoliers.
Forêt de Reno-Valdieu
Walk or cycle along the path
carved through the middle of the
forest, and admire a magnificent
line of giant oaks that soar up to
40 m (130 ft). They were planted
in the 17th century, with beech
trees, on the orders of Colbert,
to make planks for naval ships.
Tower of Bonvouloir, Forêt des Andaines
Forêt des Andaines
You might glimpse deer or
roebuck roaming through the
forest that encircles Bagnoles-
de-l'Orne, and you will certainly
see many different species of
tree, including Japanese larch
and Canadian fir. Try to visit the
priory dedicated to St
Ortaire, and the
attractive observation
tower of Bonvouloir.
Forêt d'Écouves
With its dense
thickets of oak, beech
and imported spruce
and Scots pine cover-
ing the eastern end of
the hills of Basse-
Normandie, at 140 sq
km (54 sq miles), this
is the region's largest,
wildest and arguably
most beautiful forest.
It supports a varied
wildlife, including rare
birds, deer and boar.
Tucked away in Bois
de Goult is a charming
11th-century chapel,
frescoed with hunting
scenes.
Forêt de Lyons
This 100 sq km (37
sq mile) beech forest
was a favourite hunting
ground of Merovingian
kings. Tall, slender
beech trees cast a
beautiful, dappled light,
making it a perfect
place for walking. As
well as Lyons-la-Forêt
(see pp63, 79) , there
are two châteaux and
the ruined Abbaye de
Mortemer to explore.
Forêt d'Écouves
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