Boscodon, Sacred forest in Crots, France.
Boscodon is a forest in the French Alps characterized by its abundance of fir trees, which stand out distinctly from the surrounding pine and larch woodlands. The terrain spans various elevations and combines dense woodland with open areas and natural clearings.
The forest has been managed since the 12th century by monks from Notre-Dame de Boscodon Abbey, who introduced sustainable forestry practices. Their stewardship over many centuries shaped the woodland and continues to influence its character today.
The name Boscodon comes from the Occitan word 'bòsc', showing how central forests were to the Alpine communities living in this region. Visitors walk through a landscape shaped by centuries of monastic presence and forest stewardship.
The forest is reachable from the Gap-Briançon axis via departmental road 568, with a parking area near the abbey at around 1,150 meters elevation. Marked trails guide visitors through the woodland, and sturdy footwear is essential, especially for longer walks to higher sections or observation points.
A memorable destination within the forest is the Bear Fountain, reached after a walk of approximately 5 kilometers through the woodland. From this vantage point, visitors can survey the town of Embrun and the mountain landscapes stretching across the horizon.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
