Olympic detox: escape Paris for the nearby bouldering paradise of Font, by public transport
While Paris 2024 is a fantastic watch and we’re cheering our TeamGB climbers on with gusto, scaling brightly-coloured, plastic holds isn’t for everyone. Cue Fontainebleau (Font), a world-renowned bouldering destination on natural rock, deep in the forest, only 70km south of this year’s Olympic capital city.
Font is scattered with thousands of huge, grey and weather-smoothed, sandstone boulders, offering climbers an unparalleled variety of problems ranging from beginner-friendly circuits to advanced, technical challenges. Climbing here is not just about the physical effort; it’s a cultural experience, deeply rooted in the history of European climbing. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a complete beginner, Font offers a rich bouldering experience steeped in history and natural beauty.
One of the big themes of the Paris Olympics has been sustainability and Font is a relatively easy place to get to by public transport from Paris. With convenient train and bus services, as well as the option to cycle or use life-sharing, accessing this bouldering paradise has never been easier and eco-friendlier. Happy climbing!
Getting There
Paris to Fontainebleau
1. Train from Paris to Fontainebleau-Avon
The most convenient way to reach Fontainebleau from Paris is by taking a train. The Transilien line R provides direct services from Gare de Lyon in Paris to Fontainebleau-Avon. Trains run frequently, especially during peak hours, and the journey takes around 40-50 minutes.
Tickets and Timetables:
- Purchase your tickets at the station or online via the SNCF website or the Transilien (Transilien: Transport in Paris) app.
- One-way tickets cost approximately €8-€10.
- Be sure to check the timetable as train frequency varies throughout the day.
2. From Fontainebleau-Avon to the bouldering areas
Upon arriving at the Fontainebleau-Avon station, you have several options to reach the bouldering sites:
a. Local bus:
- Bus Line 1: This bus runs from the Fontainebleau-Avon station to various stops near popular climbing areas. Key stops include Fontainebleau town center and the famous climbing sectors like Bas Cuvier and Franchard Isatis.
- Timetables and tickets: Tickets can be bought on the bus. A single journey costs around €2.50. Check the local bus schedule as services might be less frequent on weekends and public holidays.
b. Bike rental:
- Renting a bicycle is an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to explore Fontainebleau. Several rental shops in Fontainebleau town centre offer a range of bicycles.
- Cycling routes are well-marked and the terrain is generally flat, making it a pleasant ride to the climbing areas.
c. Taxi or lift-sharing:
- Taxis are available at the Fontainebleau-Avon station, offering direct access to more remote climbing spots. The cost can vary, so it’s a good idea to get a fare estimate before starting your journey.
- Ride-sharing services like BlaBlaCar can also be a viable option, particularly if you prefer more flexibility in your travel schedule.
Navigating the Bouldering Areas
Fontainebleau’s bouldering areas are divided into several major sectors, each with its own unique character and climbing challenges. Here are a few must-visit spots:
Bas Cuvier
Bas Cuvier is one of the most famous and accessible bouldering areas in Fontainebleau. It’s known for its historic problems and proximity to Fontainebleau town. The problems range from easy to extremely difficult, catering to climbers of all skill levels.
Franchard Isatis
Franchard Isatis offers a variety of problems set in a picturesque forest setting. The area is well-signposted and provides a great mix of technical climbs and powerful problems. It’s also close to other popular sectors like Franchard Cuisinière, making it easy to explore multiple areas in a day.
Apremont
Apremont is a vast area with several sub-sectors, each offering unique climbing experiences. It’s a bit further from the town center, but the diverse problems and beautiful surroundings make it worth the trip.
Tips for Climbing in Fontainebleau
- Guidebooks and apps: Invest in a good guidebook or download a bouldering app like 27 Crags or Bleau.info to help navigate the extensive climbing areas.
- Chalk and brushes: Bring plenty of chalk and a brush to clean holds. Fontainebleau’s sandstone can be slippery, especially in humid conditions.
- Respect nature: Fontainebleau is a protected area. Respect the environment by staying on marked paths, not littering, and avoiding climbing on wet sandstone to prevent damage, watch our advice film below.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before your trip. Fontainebleau’s climate can be unpredictable, and climbing on wet rock is dangerous and damaging to the boulders.
Essential sandstone bouldering info
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