Tourbière Des Froux

Tourbière des Froux is a small but ecologically remarkable peatland covering roughly 8.5 hectares in the commune of Manou, in the Eure-et-Loir department of France, right on the edge of the Senonches state forest. The site lies within the Perche Regional Natural Park and ranks among the best-preserved peat bogs in this part of the country.

How did this peatland form?

The valley here is carved by the Biquet stream and sits on a subsoil of clay and sand that drains poorly. Combined with the region's rainy climate, this creates ideal conditions for water to accumulate and lush wetland vegetation to thrive. Over centuries, the slow decomposition of dying plant matter built up thick layers of peat, giving rise to one of the finest peatlands in the area.

What is there to see?

The site is made up of about 6.5 hectares of peat bog and 2.5 hectares of woodland, forming a largely forested valley-bottom peatland. The mix of wetland habitats survives in excellent condition, having escaped the drainage works that damaged many comparable sites across France in the past. As a result, the plant and animal life typical of peat bogs has been able to develop here largely undisturbed for decades.

How can visitors explore it?

A 1.5-kilometer educational trail fitted with elevated wooden boardwalks lets visitors cross the wettest parts of the terrain without disturbing the fragile habitat underfoot. The route starts at an information panel near the parking area by the old communal washhouse (lavoir), making it easy to get oriented before setting off.

Who looks after the site?

Tourbière des Froux is communal property subject to forestry regulations. Since 2007, it has been managed under a four-party agreement between the commune of Manou, the Perche Regional Natural Park, the National Forestry Office (ONF), and a nature conservation body. This partnership ensures the site is regularly monitored and that conservation work follows a coordinated plan, helping preserve its unique natural value for future generations.

Frequently asked questions

Is the peatland open to visitors? Yes, a signposted 1.5 km educational trail with wooden boardwalks runs through it, and access is free.

How long does the walk take? Given the short distance and the educational nature of the route, a relaxed walk with stops at the information panels usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes.

Where can I park? There is a parking area near the old lavoir (communal washhouse), where the trail begins and the first information panel is located.

What makes this peatland special? Unlike many other peat bogs in the region, this site was never drained or altered, which allowed it to retain its natural character and a rich variety of wetland habitats.