On the agenda: a night in a historic hotel, dinner with flavors from the South, a hike in the forest, a climbing session in the great outdoors, refined tea time, and a trip to Barbizon to stroll in the footsteps of the painters. A delightful and refreshing getaway!
A bit of history
Fontainebleau is not just any town. It was the favorite residence of François I, the imperial hideaway of Napoleon Bonaparte, and has hosted eight centuries of rulers. It boasts a castle as majestic as it is underrated, an architectural gem where some of the most fascinating chapters of French history were written. But beyond its splendor, it is also a peaceful town surrounded by forest, where life unfolds at the pace of nature and the seasons.
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The Napoléon Hotel & Spa, where history meets elegance
Housed in a luxurious 17th-century townhouse just steps away from the castle, the Napoléon Hotel & Spa combines old-world charm with modern comfort. This place has welcomed many travelers since the Second Empire and pays tribute to its illustrious neighbor with subtle nods to imperial style: moldings, wallpapers inspired by royal apartments, and period furniture. The rooms, decorated in a “royal chic” style, reflect the history of the place without ever being kitschy.
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In the morning, a generous breakfast is served in a cozy setting, featuring artisan pastries, scrambled eggs, fresh bread, fruits, and freshly squeezed juices. Throughout the day, you can enjoy a discreet but well-equipped spa and a sunlit indoor pool. A special mention goes to the tea time offered on Saturday afternoons in the hotel lounges: a delightful assortment of fine pastries, a selection of teas or hot chocolates, and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a sweet break between strolls.
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Dining at ADMΛ: A Taste of the South
Just a stone's throw from the hotel, the ADMΛ restaurant is a delightful surprise. It's a cozy spot, adorned in light tones and natural materials, where the cuisine is rich with Mediterranean flavors. The menu changes with the seasons, but always features ultra-fresh ingredients with a genuine generosity on the plates. You can enjoy a creamy burrata on a bed of grilled vegetables, homemade gnocchi with basil and pistachio pesto, a local catch roasted in the oven with black tapenade, or a beautifully tender herb-infused lamb shoulder. For dessert, there's a reimagined lemon meringue tart or an astonishingly delicate rosemary panna cotta. The atmosphere is chill, the team is attentive, and every bite invites you to linger over your meal.
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Château, forest, hiking, and climbing in the great outdoors
It’s impossible to visit Fontainebleau without exploring its castle, a Renaissance gem that has been home to eight centuries of sovereigns. You can wander through royal apartments, painted galleries, French gardens, and a romantic canal, all in a grand and peaceful atmosphere.
Right after that, head to the forest. For a lovely hike, make your way to the Franchard gorges: sandy trails, strange-shaped sandstone blocks, twisted pines, and breathtaking views of the canopy. Along the way, an outdoor photo exhibition as part of the Spring Equestrian Sports adds an artistic touch to the stroll.
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And for the more active folks, Fontainebleau is also a world-renowned climbing spot. The forest is home to hundreds of marked bouldering circuits, on accessible rocks surrounded by nature. No need for ropes or high-level experience: a crash pad and a good pair of climbing shoes are all you need to get started. It's the perfect way to unleash some energy in the great outdoors, surrounded by green moss and clear skies.
Barbizon for a leisurely Sunday
On Sundays, we head to Barbizon, a charming village of artists just a few kilometers away. Here, time feels suspended. We wander through workshops, winding streets adorned with wisteria, art galleries, and peaceful cafes. We pop into L'Esquisse, a unique shop-café, then into the Millet Museum to learn about the history of the Barbizon School. To wrap up the day, we take a stroll along the painters' path, on the edge of the forest, basking in golden light and bucolic inspiration.
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What's the verdict? Fontainebleau is the perfect spring getaway: a weekend that's both refreshing and invigorating, filled with beautiful plates, wide-open spaces, climbing in the forest, and unforgettable moments. All of this is less than an hour from Paris. Ideal for a break between two public holidays!
Practical Information
How to get there?
From Paris, expect about 40 to 50 minutes by train from Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon (R line).
Then it's about a 15-minute walk or bus ride to the city center.
Where to stay?
Hôtel Napoléon & Spa – 9 rue Grande, Fontainebleau
Rooms start at €150 per night. Access to the indoor pool, spa by reservation.
Tea time on Saturdays from 3 PM to 5 PM (reservation recommended).
Where to eat?
ADMΛ<. – 4 rue des Pins, Fontainebleau
Homemade Mediterranean cuisine with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Lunch menu starting at €25, dinner à la carte.
Things to do
- Château de Fontainebleau: self-guided or guided tours, open every day except Tuesday. Full price: €14
- Hiking in the Franchard Gorges: marked trails accessible from the Croix de Toulouse parking lot. Be sure to wear good shoes.
- Climbing: many free access routes in the forest (Franchard, Bas-Cuvier, Apremont…). Crash pad rental is available in town (e.g., BleauStore, Casal Sport).
- Stroll in Barbizon: a 10-minute drive or a 25-minute bike ride from Fontainebleau.
