Far from the pine forests of the Gironde coast, the Double reveals a completely different side of the forest. On the border with Dordogne, this vast, humid and rolling massif offers a landscape of woodlands, ponds and streams that you can explore on foot, by bike or on horseback.
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A forest "unique in Europe" at the gates of Dordogne
The Double doesn't stop at the borders of Gironde: this vast forest expands into Dordogne and beyond. In the department, it notably forms around Saint-Christophe-de-Double and Fieu a wooded territory of approximately 12 km by 10 km, nestled on a plateau that gently overlooks the Isle and Dronne valleys.
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Its landscape stands out from the vast, uniform pine forests that Gironde is often associated with. Here, deciduous trees and maritime pines sit alongside ponds and little streams, in gently rolling terrain.
European pond turtles and minks among the wetlands
This patchwork of habitats also offers refuge to particularly rich wildlife. In the ponds lives notably the European pond turtle, a small aquatic turtle protected at the European level.
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The forest is also home to numerous bird species, squirrels, and even the European mink, a mammal that is particularly rare today. This biodiversity contributes to the unspoiled character of this territory, which remains largely off the beaten tourist path.
Miles of trails to discover the Double
No need to just admire it from afar: the forest is crisscrossed with marked trails, featuring a departmental route and several local loops starting from or around Saint-Christophe-de-Double.
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Hiking, biking, and horseback riding let you venture deep into the woodlands and follow along the many water spots. For a first-time discovery, several routes are easily accessible from the charming village of Saint-Christophe-de-Double.
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