Where to stay when visiting Fontainebleauclimbers edition
Where to Stay in Fontainebleau: A Climber’s Guide to the Forest
Fontainebleau, located just an hour south of Paris, is a global bouldering destination famed for its endless sandstone blocs, technical movement, and enchanting forest setting. With over 30,000 problems across all grades, it attracts beginners and elite climbers alike. But where you stay can shape your experience—so here’s a curated guide to the best accommodation options in and around the forest.
🏕 Camping – Nature-First and Community-Oriented
Camping is the classic climber’s choice in Font. It’s cheap, sociable, and keeps you close to the blocs.
Dispersed Camping (limited & discouraged)
Wild camping is technically not allowed in the forest. Use official campgrounds to avoid fines and preserve the ecosystem.
Camping Les Prés – Climber-Focused & Central
📍 Grez-sur-Loing
Spacious pitches, mobile homes, and excellent amenities: pools, climbing walls, and a small restaurant. A favorite among international climbers.
Camping Château de la Forêt – Peaceful & Picturesque
📍 Boulancourt
Quiet, clean, and well-maintained. Offers chalets, mobile homes, and shaded tent pitches. Great for families or longer stays.
Camping Les Courtilles du Lido – Riverside Charm
📍 Moret-sur-Loing
Set near the Loing River, this relaxed site offers chalets, RV spots, and tent pitches. Features a pool, snack bar, and grocery store.
🏡 Gîtes & Chambres d’Hôtes – Local Charm & Comfort
For a more private and cozy stay, gîtes (self-catered homes) and chambres d’hôtes (B&Bs) offer ideal forest access with rural French hospitality.
La Marlotte – Cozy & Welcoming
📍 Bourron-Marlotte
A local favorite among climbers. Warm hosts, a tranquil garden, and breakfast worth waking up for.
Les Écureuils – Forest-Side Tranquility
📍 Fontainebleau
Comfortable rooms with a relaxed atmosphere. Great base for climbing, hiking, or just forest immersion.
La Montagne aux Alouettes – Rustic & Scenic
📍 Arbonne-la-Forêt
Close to popular sectors like Bas Cuvier. Offers a peaceful rural vibe with plenty of climbing nearby.
La Demeure du Parc – Elegant Forest Luxury
📍 Fontainebleau town
A boutique guesthouse with modern rooms, spa, and on-site restaurant. Perfect if you want a touch of luxury after long days on stone.
🛏️ Hotels – For Comfort, Convenience, and Culture
Staying in Fontainebleau town gives easy access to shops, restaurants, and the Château, with short drives to most bouldering areas.
Hôtel Aigle Noir – Classic French Grandeur
Right in town with historic decor, elegant rooms, and great breakfast. Steps from the château and a short drive from Trois Pignons.
Hôtel de Londres – Stylish Boutique Option
Chic rooms, friendly staff, and a relaxed vibe. Walkable to restaurants and train station. Great for couples or solo travelers.
Hôtel Victoria – Comfort & Central Location
Modern decor, garden setting, and convenient for exploring town or getting out to the forest quickly.
Hôtel Napoléon – Quiet Comfort with Modern Touches
A peaceful spot within walking distance of downtown. Ideal for rest days or remote work.
🧗♂️ Climber-Run Guesthouses – Stay in the Scene
For the full Font experience, consider staying at a climber-owned house or hostel. These are social, affordable, and full of beta.
La Grotte – Low-Cost, High-Vibe
Dorms, shared kitchen, and constant psych. Expect campfire hangouts and topos spread across every surface.
La Cabane – Laid-Back & Forest-Adjacent
Perfect for solo travelers or small groups. Hosts often climb and can help with sector recommendations.
✅ Tips for Your Stay in Fontainebleau
-
Best Season: Spring and autumn for top conditions. Summer can be hot, and winter damp.
-
Getting Around: A car is highly recommended unless you're based in town.
-
Shopping: Stock up at supermarkets in Fontainebleau, Milly-la-Forêt, or Nemours.
-
Rest Days: Explore the Château de Fontainebleau, local bakeries, or Paris (just 1 hour by train).
🔚 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re camping under the stars or enjoying French wine in a cozy gîte, Fontainebleau offers a climbing trip like no other. With world-famous sandstone, a welcoming community, and timeless forest beauty, it’s easy to see why climbers return year after year.