Nature en Fête

Nature in celebration at the foot of the Château de Senonches

Every year at the beginning of June, Senonches celebrates nature and ecotourism through a festive weekend that highlights the state forest, one of the largest in France, and the rich biodiversity of the Perche region. The Château de Senonches, a classified Historic Monument housing the Centre d'interprétation de la forêt et de l'Homme (Forest and Man Interpretation Centre), is the heart of this event, attracting families, nature lovers, and the curious of all ages.

A rich program centered around the forest and gardens

The Nature en Fête program is structured around several key areas. The plant swap in the castle courtyard allows gardeners to exchange seeds, cuttings, and plants in a friendly atmosphere. Bike rides take participants to discover the industrial heritage of the Senonches forest, exploring old forges and glassworks. Guided nature outings led by specialists offer opportunities to observe forest fauna and flora in their natural habitat.

The Bee Festival

One of the weekend's highlights is the Bee Festival, held on Sunday. A honey market brings together local beekeepers, while demonstrations of honey extraction and visits to the castle's educational apiary help visitors understand the essential role of pollinators. The Confrérie du Champignon et des Fines Gourmandises de la Forêt de Senonches (Brotherhood of Mushrooms and Fine Delicacies of the Senonches Forest) adds its gourmet touch to the event with tastings of forest products.

Hunting Horn Concerts and Nature Evenings

On Saturday evening, a hunting horn concert resonates in the majestic setting of the forest, creating a magical atmosphere. Conferences on forest management, biodiversity, and ecology complement the program, making this weekend a time for education and awareness as well as a popular celebration. The entire event is supported by the Office de Tourisme des Forêts du Perche (Perche Forests Tourist Office) and its local partners.

Senonches, gateway to the forest

Senonches is a small town of character nestled in the heart of the Perche forest, a vast forest massif of over 4,000 hectares. The castle, overlooking the village, houses interactive and educational exhibits dedicated to the forest ecosystem. Nature en Fête extends this vocation by inviting the public to experience the forest in a new way, through natural discoveries, exchanges between enthusiasts, and festive outdoor moments.