Forest of Saint-Gatien-des-Bois

Originally, the forest was called Touques forest, the change of name was made at the time of the French conquest at the beginning of the XIIIth century, when it passed into the royal domain.
The forest of Saint-Gatien-des-Bois has known many purchasers over the centuries, sometimes belonging to noble people: Louise de Bourbon, Mademoiselle de Montpensier; sometimes divided up and sold to various people. It was exploited by the "brioleurs" who transported logs, faggots or ferns. Their work companions were the "mazettes", small horses equipped with a bell to better locate them at night.
Before 1789, wolves, deer, roe deer, fallow deer and wild boar could be seen, but they gave way to foxes, hares and rabbits. Deer, wild boar and woodcock are still present in winter.
Nowadays, this forest is exclusively private.

Every year at the beginning of July, the Trail du Bois Joli takes place, with two courses to choose from for a 100% nature race!