Welcome to the ‘Hommage à Denecourt et Colinet,’ a place that honors the pioneering spirit of two remarkable individuals, Claude François Denecourt and Charles Colinet, who transformed the forest of Fontainebleau into a haven for nature lovers and hikers. In the early 19th century, Claude François Denecourt, a veteran of the Napoleonic army, found solace and purpose amidst the trees and rocks of Fontainebleau. After his service, Denecourt dedicated himself to unveiling the forest’s secrets to the public. He mapped out trails, created guides, and marked paths with blue arrows, reminiscent of the Napoleonic uniforms he once wore. His work laid the foundation for what we now recognize as modern hiking and nature tourism.
Denecourt’s efforts were continued and expanded by Charles Colinet and his wife Maria after Denecourt’s passing. Together, they further developed the network of trails known today as the ‘Denecourt – Colinet’ paths. These trails, totaling over 150 kilometers, still guide visitors through the forest’s picturesque landscapes, past the observation tower once named the ‘Tour de l’Empereur’ and now called the ‘Tour Denecourt.’
Visitors to this area can experience the same sense of wonder that Denecourt and Colinet felt, as they walk paths named with mythological and historical references, such as the ‘Cyclop’s Passage’ and the ‘Robbers’ Cave.’ These names, crafted by Denecourt’s imagination, add a layer of storytelling to the natural beauty of the forest.
The legacy of Denecourt and Colinet is not only a testament to their passion for nature but also a reflection of the societal shifts of their time, as the 19th century saw a growing appreciation for outdoor recreational activities. Their work symbolizes a pivotal moment in history where nature became accessible to the masses, marking the forest of Fontainebleau as a significant location in the development of tourism and hiking in Europe.
