TOP OF THE ROCK The World’s Best Bouldering Break

Fontainebleau is the birthplace of bouldering, and the world’s best destination for the sport. Adrenaline junkies have journeyed to the area's rocky gorges since the 1870’s. The natural, 280 square km climbing region – three-times the size of Manhattan – is just an hour’s drive south of Paris. This scenic, dense swath of woodland has captured the French imagination for over eight centuries, and was the former hunting grounds of French royalty. Notable figures including Napoleon, writer and philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau and a flock of French Impressionists frequented Fontainebleau for a place of quiet reflection, and its stunning natural beauty.

Today, climbers are spoilt for choice in Fontainebleau. While traditional rock-climbing focuses on an individual's endurance, bouldering is a more social sport; emphasising raw strength and powerful movements. The forest offers a scattering of sandstone boulders on which to flex your skills and a series of colour-coded circuits that guide both novice and advanced climbers.

After a day’s climbing, you’ll dine in Fontainebleau-style grandeur at two-Michelin-starred L’Axel. This opulent French restaurant, nestled among charming townhouses, is presided over by Japanese chef, Kunihisa Goto. Goto’s gastronomic dishes are beautifully subtle and created with traditional French finesse, featuring regional ingredients including truffle, mature cheeses and tender poultry.

We Also Recommend

• For the best climbing conditions visit Fontainebleau in early spring or late autumn
• Make for Fontainebleau’s most famous boulder, L’Éléphant, named for its iconic shape
• Pay a visit to the famous and historical Château de Fontainebleau

Additional Information

Flights are not included to give you maximum flexibility with your travel.

Bouldering is suitable all year round; though difficult in winter. Bouldering in Fontainebleau is suitable for both novice and advanced climbers. The Forest of Fontainebleau ranks bouldering difficulty from 1-10.

The only equipment you need is a pair of climbing shoes, a rag or mat to clean the sand off your boots and some chalk to rough your hands. It is advised that you also use a crash mat on intermediate and advanced climbs.

Restaurant: Dinner on one night is inclusive of the ‘Menu Gastronome’ for two people at L’Axel in Fontainebleau. Drinks are not included, these and any extras can simply be purchased on site. Service charge is included.

The best way to travel is by rail, from London’s Kings Cross to Paris’ Gare du Nord. The journey takes three hours. From Paris to Fontainebleau by car takes approximately one hour.

All bookings are subject to availability. We recommend booking at least 6 weeks in advance to guarantee desired dates and times.