Denecourt tower

The Denecourt tower is a stone observation tower in Fontainebleau with a round base that tapers to a square upper section. The structure features two terrace levels and a crown with five battlements that define its neo-medieval design.

Claude-Francois Denecourt built this structure in 1851 as part of his vision for developing the forest. A collapse in January 1878 led to its reconstruction using public funding the following year.

The tower connects to the blue trails that Denecourt created throughout the forest, which were the world's first marked hiking routes. Visitors who climb it can see the landscape these paths cross.

The location is reachable from Fontainebleau-Avon station via a spiral path that winds through the forest. The route is well-marked and the climb is moderate in difficulty.

Orientation tables installed in 1985 by the National Forest Office help visitors identify landmarks across a wide panoramic view. These aids make the visit more informative and help with bearings from the top of the structure.

Location: Fontainebleau

Inception: 1851

Architects: Claude-François Denecourt

Architectural style: neo-medieval architecture

GPS coordinates: 48.43380,2.72620

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:24