Forêt du Cranou

Hanvec, France, France

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Forêt du Cranou, also known as Forêt du Crannou, is the largest forest in the Finistère department of Brittany, France, located primarily in Hanvec, with smaller parts in Le Faou, Pont-de-Buis-lès-Quimerc'h, and Lopérec.

This state-owned domain forest covers approximately 627 to 1,321 hectares and is situated between the Menez-Hom and Monts d'Arrée mountains at altitudes ranging from 60 to 321 meters, making it part of the Armorique Regional Natural Park. The forest is dominated by oak trees making up 75% of the woodland, with beech trees at 20%, and various coniferous species at 5%, including notable sectors of beech, oak, and yew trees.

Managed by the National Forest Office (ONF), the forest has a rich history where its woods were long used by shipbuilders to construct ship hulls and masts, and today it serves as a privileged destination for nature tourism and outdoor recreation. The forest offers numerous marked hiking trails including a 3-kilometer interpretation circuit and an 11-hectare forest arboretum, while the GR 37 long-distance hiking trail crosses the entire massif.

It's a paradise for mushroom pickers and home to many animal species that enjoy its mild climate and rugged terrain, with picnic areas available for visitors and a viewpoint at Pen Ar Hoat offering magnificent views of the entire region, including the Brest harbor on clear days. The forest is accessible year-round for hiking and mountain biking, making it an important asset for forest tourism in the region.