Chêne Hippolyte

Chêne Hippolyte is a venerable pedunculate oak growing in the forests of La Ferté-Macé, right in the heart of the Forêt des Andaines in Normandy. At roughly 300 years old, it is considered the oldest tree in the whole forest and stands as one of the region's natural heritage landmarks.

Where exactly does the tree stand?

The oak grows in the northern part of the forest massif, less than 3 kilometres from the well-known spa town of Bagnoles-de-l'Orne. The site sits within the Normandie-Maine Regional Nature Park, which keeps the surrounding landscape largely untouched. The oak is encircled by a planted stand of beech and Norway spruce, creating a striking contrast between the younger woodland and the massive, ancient tree rising above it.

How do you get there?

A signposted trail leads directly to the Chêne Hippolyte, with information boards along the way, so finding it is straightforward even without a guide. The most convenient starting points are Bagnoles-de-l'Orne or La Ferté-Macé itself, both connected by local walking and cycling paths running through the forest. The oak is a well-known stop on the routes linking the two towns, and it's a favourite pick for visitors after a quick dose of nature without a long expedition.

What will you see on site?

The oak impresses first through sheer scale. Its trunk measures 5.30 metres in circumference at a height of 1.30 metres, and the tree stands 30 metres tall overall. It's a fine specimen of pedunculate oak, a species prized in European forests for its straight, powerful trunk and dark bark. The tree carries the name of Hippolyte Foinet, a forest warden who lived from 1876 to 1956. After the First World War, while living near the Carrefour de l'Épinette crossroads, he obtained permission to personally look after this particular oak. It is largely thanks to his care that the tree has survived in such good condition, and his name has remained attached to it ever since.

When is the best time to visit?

The Forêt des Andaines is open year-round, but spring and autumn offer the best walking conditions — the light filtering through the canopy highlights the oak's scale particularly well, and the paths aren't softened by winter rain. In summer the tree disappears into dense foliage, providing welcome shade on hot days, while in autumn the surrounding beeches paint a colourful backdrop around the oak. Early morning or late afternoon tends to be the quietest time to visit.

Who is this spot for?

Chêne Hippolyte suits nature lovers, photographers hunting for a distinctive shot, and families looking to see a living natural monument without the effort of a mountain hike. It also makes a pleasant rest stop partway through a longer walk through the Forêt des Andaines connecting Bagnoles-de-l'Orne and La Ferté-Macé.

Frequently asked questions

How old is the Chêne Hippolyte? The tree is estimated to be around 300 years old, making it the oldest oak in the Forêt des Andaines.

Where does the tree's name come from? It was named after Hippolyte Foinet, a forest warden who took special care of it after the First World War while living near the Carrefour de l'Épinette crossroads.

How large is the tree? Its trunk circumference at 1.30 metres above the ground is 5.30 metres, and the tree reaches about 30 metres in height.

Is the walk to the oak difficult? No — a signposted footpath leads straight to it, easily reached from either Bagnoles-de-l'Orne or La Ferté-Macé, with no special fitness required.