The Dame Jouanne

The Dame Jouanne

The Dame Jouanne massif is located in the southern part of the Fontainebleau Forest, near Larchant. With its pine trees, sandy patches, and jumbled sandstone boulders, the Dame Jouanne area offers a diverse landscape. It features some particularly striking rock formations, such as the Maunoury, the Whale (*la Baleine*), and the Elephant (*l’Éléphant*).

The name “Dame Jouanne” likely derives from Jeanne de Malicorne (*Johanna de Malicornia*), who held rights over this region in the 13th century. This area lies at the edge of the lordship belonging to the Chapter of Notre-Dame de Paris, which had been the lord of Larchant since 1005.

Before 1939, the baker from Larchant built a small hut here. On Sundays, local youths would cycle out to the site to buy cans of beer or lemonade.

In 1945, an inn—the “Dame Jouanne” (or “Dame Jeanne”) restaurant—was established in the heart of the forest, taking its name from the nearby Dame Jouanne rock formation. A simple chalet served as a place for climbers and Parisians seeking a relaxing Sunday getaway to enjoy a meal. Today, the chalet remains a popular restaurant, prized for its setting in the midst of the Dame Jouanne area.

Since 2004, we have operated 3 holiday cottages (gîtes) on the edge of the Dame Jouanne area:

Dame Jouanne Gîte

Capacity: 5 people

Éléphant Gîte

Capacity: 7 people

Bleaumont Gîte

Capacity: 8 to 10 people

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A circuit around the Dame Jouanne massif.

Embark on this 9.3-km loop trail near Larchant. Considered a moderate route, it takes an average of 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete. It is a very popular spot for hiking and rock climbing, so you are likely to encounter other people during your excursion. The area is accessible year-round, and it is well worth a visit in any season. Dogs are welcome and may be let off-leash in certain areas.

Walk for approximately 850 meters, following the new GR13 trail along the base of the rock formations, moving away from the road.
Keeping the rocks in sight—without climbing them—you will reach a large wooden staircase, built to help limit erosion on the massif. Following the stairs, you arrive on the plateau.
From its edge, you can enjoy beautiful views of the village of Larchant, the valley, and the marshland. Just beneath the rocky surface of the plateau lies the “Grotte aux Voleurs” (Thieves’ Cave), which contains ancient carvings and graffiti. Unfortunately, these are very often covered by a layer of charcoal.
From various points on the plateau, you can catch a glimpse of the Saint Mathurin fountain and the Dame Jouanne rock—the most famous rock formation in the Fontainebleau massif.
Standing about 15 meters tall, with its summit rising some 30 meters above the local inn, it is the highest point among the rock formations in the Fontainebleau forest.

THE VILLAGE

Located a few kilometers from Fontainebleau and Barbizon, the village is served by the Nemours train station. Local activity has benefited from the growing popularity of the nearby forest. Especially its rock formations, the panoramic views from the top of the plateau and the allure of the basilica in the village of Larchant. A must-see: the stunning ruins of the Church of Saint-Mathurin in Larchant. The village is nestled at the base of a natural amphitheater. Larchant is well worth a visit for its magnificent church and several historic houses. Notably, the portal of the tower bears striking similarities to the “Last Judgment” portal of Notre-Dame de Paris.