Astis : les Barthouils

Carefully cross the D834 using the protected crossing near the petrol station. Head east away from the road along the tarmac track, turning left at the next two junctions (forks).

Turn left onto a shaded, gravel path that descends towards the foot of the hill. Underneath the power line, leave the path to the left onto a wide track that leads to the plantation.

At the end of the small copse, you will discover the plot recently planted with pedunculate oaks. You are free to choose which direction to walk around these young trees, as the route will bring you back to the same entrance. Turn right to descend towards the Morlaàs road, then walk along the plantation towards the older copse. You can even shorten your walk, as the route forms a sort of figure of 8.

At the northernmost point, take the track overlooking the plantation and returning to the entrance to the plot, then return to Astis via the same route. You may be lucky enough to spot some of the numerous deer that inhabit this area. You will notice plastic tubes around the trunks which, in addition to creating a greenhouse effect that promotes plant growth, also protect young trees from the appetite of deer. Browsing, rubbing and bark stripping are the three types of damage caused by deer, with significant consequences for wood growth.