Reserva Natural del Bosc de la Maçana, National nature reserve in Argelès-sur-Mer, France
The Reserva Natural del Bosc de la Maçana is a protected forest reserve located in the easternmost part of the Albères Mountains, spanning around 336 hectares across varying elevations. The woodland area rises between 600 and 1150 meters and supports thousands of documented plant and animal species throughout its slopes.
The reserve was established in 1973 as one of France's earliest formally protected natural areas. The beech forest has evolved undisturbed over generations, preserving its original woodland character and ecological structure.
The forest serves as an open-air laboratory where researchers from various countries study its natural diversity and ecological patterns. Visitors experience the place as an important site for international scientific observation and the understanding of forest ecosystems.
The area features marked hiking trails that visitors can freely explore while following strict regulations to protect the environment. Camping, collecting minerals, making fires, and letting dogs roam unleashed are prohibited throughout the reserve.
The reserve sits at a remarkable geographical crossroads where Mediterranean coastal influences meet mountain conditions in a small area. This position creates an unusual blend of distinct habitats and climatic zones that rarely occur together so closely.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
