Platières De Franchard (Mare Aux Pigeons)

Platières de Franchard (Mare aux Pigeons) is a protected area within the state forest of Fontainebleau, in the commune of Fontainebleau, Seine-et-Marne department, France. It forms part of the Platières de Franchard managed biological reserve (réserve biologique dirigée), covering a distinctive section of the well-known Gorges de Franchard.

What defines this place?

The name combines two landscape features. "Platières" refers to the flat, rocky sandstone plateaus typical of Fontainebleau forest — shaped by erosion of the sandstone bedrock, they form open, uneven rock surfaces standing out against the surrounding pine and oak woodland. "Mare aux Pigeons" (literally "pigeons' pond") is the name of a pond located within this area, one of several small bodies of water found in this part of the gorges. It is the largest and most permanent of them: most of the smaller ponds nearby typically dry up in summer, while the main pond generally holds water year-round.

The whole area lies within the Gorges de Franchard, one of the most recognisable sections of Fontainebleau forest, known for its dense scattering of sandstone boulders, former quarry sites, and rugged, rocky terrain. Nearby lie other characteristic rock formations of the region, such as the Gorges du Houx, making this part of the forest one of its more visually varied corners.

Why is the area protected?

Its status as a managed biological reserve means the site is subject to specific environmental management, overseen by the Office National des Forêts (ONF), the body responsible for managing France's state-owned forests. This type of protection is aimed at preserving the particular habitats and ecological processes linked both to the rock formations (platières) and to the pond-type water bodies, which act as important microhabitats for water-related vegetation and small fauna within the otherwise sandy, water-scarce environment of Fontainebleau forest.

What can visitors do here?

The Platières de Franchard area and the neighbouring Gorges de Franchard are a popular destination for hikers exploring Fontainebleau forest. Numerous marked trails pass through former sandstone quarries, the rocky platières, and near the Mare aux Pigeons, connecting this site with other landmarks in the region. The area is also appreciated by landscape photographers for the contrast between bare rock, water, and forest vegetation.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the Mare aux Pigeons located? Within the Gorges de Franchard, in the state forest of Fontainebleau, inside the Platières de Franchard managed biological reserve.

Does the Mare aux Pigeons hold water all year round? It is the main and most permanent pond in the area — unlike several of the smaller, neighbouring ponds, which typically dry up during summer.

What are "platières"? They are flat, rocky sandstone plateaus formed by erosion, a landscape feature typical of many parts of Fontainebleau forest, including the area described here.

Who manages this site? The area falls under the Office National des Forêts (ONF) as part of a managed biological reserve within the Fontainebleau state forest.