Wow moment in the Cedar forest
In the shade of centuries-old trees
The largest cedar forest in Europe is in Bonnieux! Born from seeds imported from the Middle Atlas in 1862, the forest developed peacefully on the northern slopes of the Luberon massif. Today, its 250 hectares of majestic trees welcome you for a unique reconnection to nature!
Olfactory walk
At the foot of great trees
The Cedar Forest is located on the Lourmarin road towards Bonnieux – at an altitude of 700 m. It is an emblem of freshness in summer and an chance to get some fresh air in winter. The forest boasts beautiful views of the valleys of the Durance, the Luberon and all the surrounding mountains (the Mourre Nègre, the Vaucluse, the Alpilles, etc.). As soon as you arrive on the site, the scent of the august conifers tickles your nostrils. Blue cedars, oaks, boxwood, etc. plant species mingle and merge together in this sensory picture. By closing your eyes, and using your imagination, this sweet olfactory transports you to the Atlas mountains, in Morocco.
Top tip
Clean air + change of scenery + shady location = well-being assured
Experience nautre in its purest state
Picnicking in such a beautiful place is simply rejuvenating.
As the site is so huge, it is easy to find a corner of paradise for lunch. For our part, we prepared poke bowls filled with seeds, fruits and fresh vegetables (we like the combination). All this is very colorful and very appetizing! We then rest for a while under the cedars, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the leaves blowing in the breeze. Rejuvenated, we set off again and climb up to the cliff where the view of the valley and the surrounding villages is just magnificent. You can also follow one of the 4 routes on offer. This routes marked by arrows are perfect for little ones, with lots of benches for weary legs. On these shady paths, the kids can play in the small “houses” by the paths.
Practical information
The “Cedar path” is a loop accessible to most disabilities (paved path, information panels about fauna and flora adapted to the visually impaired)
In practice
The best season
All year round
Parking
At the entrance to the forest
Directions
From Avignon (1h10), take the D900 towards direction Bonnieux and the D36 (Chemin de la Forêt des Cèdres – Cedar forest path)