Forêt d’Arques dieppe-maritime-tourisme

Fresh air

Natural curiosities

This is a beech forest where large conifers mingle with deciduoustrees*.
Among them are two remarkable trees: the Montariol Beech, the oldest tree in the forest, and the Water Bearer, a beech engraved with a drawing of a woman carrying a container of water on her head. This mysterious engraving is thought to date back over a century.

Along the way, you can admire two beautiful ponds frequented by frogs, newts and salamanders. In fine weather, you’ll be able to spot dragonflies, damselflies* and butterflies.

Practicalities

Where can I park near the Arques forest?
Several parking areas are available near the main access points to the forest, notably from Arques-la-Bataille and Ancourt. These include the Rond des 4 Quartiers parking area and theChamps de Tir parking area (near the Maison Sainte-Barbe).
What are the best hiking trails in the Arques forest?
The Arques forest offers a wide range of hiking trails. The paths are suitable for both short family walks and longer hikes. The routes around the ponds and remarkable trees (Hêtre Montariol and Porteuse d’eau) are particularly popular.
Only the PR (chemin de Petite Randonnée) is signposted.
Are there any picnic or relaxation areas in the forest?
The forest has two picnic areas close to the main parking areas, making it a pleasant place to spend a day in nature.
There is also an open grassy area (former shooting range).
Is it possible to cycle in the Arques forest?
Yes, some forest trails are suitable for mountain biking. Be sure to follow the marked trails to respect the biodiversity and tranquility of the area.
Off-roading is strongly discouraged.
Is the Arques forest accessible to people with reduced mobility?
Some parts of the forest, such as the paths around ponds and remarkable trees, may be accessible to people with reduced mobility (except wheelchair users), but only with care and in dry weather.
We strongly advise you to check routes and path conditions beforehand.
Can you pick mushrooms in the Arques forest?
Mushroom picking is permitted, but a maximum quota of 5 liters (1 basket) per person must be respected. It is advisable to ask a pharmacist about edible species.
> 10 tips for mushroom picking from the Office National des Forêts.
In autumn, outings in the company of a mycologist are scheduled in the Arques forest. See our calendar for dates!
Are guided tours available?
Accompanied outings for the general public, but also on request for groups, are regularly organized with nature guide Grégory Dugué, in particular to discover the biodiversity and special features of the forest.
See our online calendar for upcoming dates.
Are there hunting days in the Arques forest?
The Arques forest is open to shooting and hunting during certain periods of the year, generally inautumn and winter. Specific days are dedicated to hunting, and can be found on the Office National des Forêts calendar.
> Consult the days hunted in the Arques forest
Information panels are set up at the entrance to the forest to indicate hunting days.
Are there any trails in the Arques forest?
There are three (unmarked) routes of different levels optimized for male and female runners:

Charter for walkers

“I’m taking action for the forest

Before setting off to explore the Arques forest, we invite you to consult the “Charter for walkers”.

This document, produced by theOffice National des Forêts, is packed with valuable advice on how to preserve this exceptional natural setting while enjoying your walk: waste management, responsible harvesting, respect for the trails… As a bonus, you’ll find little quiz questions to test your knowledge of the forest! Ready to become an eco-responsible walker?

Download the charter

A place marked by history

The Arques forest is what survived the destruction of the Aliermont forest. This once covered the entire plateau of the same name. It was the property of the Dukes of Normandy.

It became a royal forest after Normandy became part of the French crown, then a state forest* during the French Revolution.

It is currently managed by the Office National des Forêts. The names of some crossroads (such as Rond des Ligueurs) and forest roads (Route Henri IV) recall the famous battle won by Henri IV over the Duke of Mayenne in 1589.