Forests in Champagne-Ardenne

Woodlands (public and private forests) cover approximately 26% of the total surface area of the region, i.e. around 660,000 ha. Champagne-Ardenne is the 4th region in France in terms of forest cover. 

A few large forests:

The Ardennes Massif Forest

This vast forest stretches along the Belgian border, from Givet to Sedan. Its main species are sessile oak, beech, birch and hornbeam, standing high over undergrowth rich in ferns and brooms. This cold and relatively impenetrable forest is a haven for red deer, roe deer and wild boar. It is also the source of many legends.

The forest of Argonne

This 46,000 ha forest is one of the largest in the region. Populated mainly by beech and birch, it also serves as a refuge for red deer, wild boar and roe deer. With a little patience, you will also see black and white storks and the very rare woodchat shrike in the open areas. 

Orient Forest

Orient Forest is a wood of some 12,000 ha, mainly oak and hornbeam. It abounds in wetlands, ponds and streams, and has a huge population of frogs, toads, newts and salamanders. 

Arc en Barrois and Châteauvillain Forest

This great forest of oaks and hornbeam, stretching over an area of 15,850 ha, contains many forest clearings with extensive grasslands, allowing many species to flourish: for example, it has the finest collection of Green Hound's-tongues in the entire region.

Explore the arboretums of Champagne-Ardenne