The forests

Boasting an acre of forest for every inhabitant, the Nièvre region offers a burgeoning green environment replete with clean, fresh air.
The department is still France’s leading producer of oak, of which the most beautiful specimens come from the large forest estate of Bertranges, and the third largest French reserve of Douglas firs, which are felled in the forests of Morvan.

Once a source of wood for fuel and raw materials (iron ore) mined in the area, the forests of the Nièvre region offer a haven for bygone professions, such as raft floating, beam sawing, as well as forges and foundries. For visitors who respect this fragile environment, these forests offer an endless supply of leisure pursuits.

• Wood rafters walk
Stretching from the Lac des Settons to Clamecy, the wood rafters trail crosses the Nièvre countryside and runs along the region’s river banks and canal towpaths. This beautiful and historic trail enables visitors to retrace the steps of the men who transported firewood from Morvan to Paris for 400 years.

• Courses or workshops in the Parc du Morvan
(carving, grafting, etc.) for more details, contact the Maison du Parc at Saint-Brisson
contact@parcdumorvan.org

• Tree-climbing course
The very latest trend in outdoor leisure pursuits, tree climbing is perfect for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike. Indulge your passion for this unusual form of “tree rambling” in complete safety in the forests of Breuil Chenue and Mont-Beuvray.

• Bertranges forest estate
This enormous forest estate, with its long, straight pathways and hunting terrain, offers a complete range of activities for everyone, including rambling and horse-riding trails, health walks, and fishing, as well as picnic facilities and a play area for the kids.

• River driving in Clamecy