Fontainebleau without a car: where to get there by train + on foot or by bike?

Don't have a car but dream of climbing the sandstone of Fontainebleau? Good news: it's not only possible, but also easier than you think.

And if you have a car but are looking to limit your impact, the train + walking or cycling solution is an excellent alternative. It's kinder to the planet, and it changes the way you experience a day of climbing. 

Some tips for getting organized

• Take a bike If you have one: All stations on the R line accept bicycles free of charge. This significantly reduces approach times, especially with a crash pad on your back.

• Check the train times : during the week and at weekends, line R (Gare de Lyon → Montargis/Montereau) is regular, but it is best to check the return times, especially at the end of the day.

• Prepare a topo in advance with the paper topo or via sites like bleau.info to identify access to the sectors.

Accessible areas according to stations

Each station on Line R provides access to several areas. Here are the most convenient ones, listed by departure point.

🚉 Bois-le-Roi Station

Rocher Canon

🕒 On foot: 45 min
🚴 By bike: 15 min

This is a classic. A lovely walk through the woods from the train station, or a short fifteen-minute cycle ride. Rocher Canon is perfect for a first approach to Bleau: varied circuits, a superb setting, and relatively easy access.

We particularly recommend the blue circuit, comprehensive and fun. Very busy, but always effective.

🚉 Fontainebleau–Avon Station

This station provides access to several interesting areas, all accessible on foot or by bicycle.

Calvary

🕒 On foot: 20 min

A pleasant little area with quite a few crossings and classics, such as The Flatness of Gain. Ideal for a quiet half day or a varied session.

Avon Rock

🕒 On foot: 30 min
🚴 By bike: 11 min

A quiet spot, just a stone's throw from the city. A variety of boulders and circuits for all levels. 

Mont Ussy

🕒 On foot: 30 min
🚴 By bike: 11 min

Another great area with high-quality circuits and boulders. Easy access, with a typical Bleau forest atmosphere. It's not very busy, making it perfect for quiet climbing.

Mont Aigu

🚴 By bike: 16 min
🕒 On foot: too long, bicycle recommended

Here, cycling makes all the difference. The area is a little more remote, but worth the detour: some characterful boulders, especially in the 6th and 7th grades.

Bouligny

🚴 By bike: ~20 min
🕒 On foot: 1 hour+ (not recommended)

Demanding sector, especially in the 7th and 8th grades. Gecko And The Beautiful Neighborhoods are essential. The approach is long, but the blocks are magical. 

🚉 Nemours–Saint-Pierre train station

Gréau Rock

🕒 On foot: 10–15 min

The easiest to access. Once you leave the station, you're almost already in the forest. Rocher Gréau is compact but intense, with a nice concentration of boulders in the 7th grade. There are also a few accessible lines, for a change of pace.

In summary

Fontainebleau isn't just for motorized climbers. With a little planning, it's entirely possible to experience superb car-free sessions. You can swap the sound of the engine for the sound of footsteps in the leaves, the frustration of the ring road for the comfort of the train.

And above all, we discover another way of going into the forest. Slower, freer, more responsible.