The original 1861 plantation was part of a larger government initiative to reforest the limestone massifs of the Luberon.
The Atlas cedars in this forest have adapted to grow at a lower altitude than they typically inhabit in their native North African range.
Some of the largest cedars in the forest stand over 20 meters tall and have trunk diameters exceeding 1 meter.
The forest floor is often covered with typical Mediterranean scrub, including rosemary, boxwood, and kermes oak.
This site is part of the Luberon Regional Natural Park, which is recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark.
The forest is a critical site for studying the resilience of non-native tree species in response to climate change.
The Forêt des cèdres du Luberon covers approximately 250 hectares on the northern slopes of the Petit Luberon range. This forest was established in 1861 through the planting of Atlas cedars using seeds sourced from the Algerian Tell Atlas mountains. It serves as a significant botanical site due to the successful natural regeneration of the species in a Mediterranean climate. The site offers panoramic views extending across the Calavon valley toward the Monts de Vaucluse and the Alps. A dedicated 1.5-kilometer discovery trail, accessible to people with reduced mobility, winds through the dense, mature tree canopy. The area is highly prone to forest fires, leading to strict management and occasional public access restrictions during dry summer periods. The terrain is characterized by limestone karst features interspersed with the evergreen cedar stands.
The viewpoint clearing near the edge of the limestone cliffs looking north toward the village of Bonnieux.
Bring a windbreaker, as the plateau can be significantly windier and cooler than the surrounding valley.
Use the onsite information panels along the discovery trail to identify the native flora.
Carry sufficient water, as there are no potable water sources available within the forest perimeter.
Attempting to visit during days with high-wind alerts, as forest access is legally prohibited by the prefecture for safety.
Frequently closed during the summer months due to extreme fire risk; check the Luberon Regional Natural Park website for daily access status.
No smoking or open flames at any time due to extreme fire danger; stay on marked paths to protect the root systems.
