Brittany - High prices as supply is scarce
Although it is one of the least well-known region in France for its forests (here, the forest only covers 14% of the surface area), mention the legendary forest of Brocéliande and Brittany still conjures up images of dense green woodland.
Brocéliande actually corresponds to the forest of Paimpont which is almost all privately owned. It is wonderful hunting ground and people still hunt with their hounds here. An impressive number of red deer live in the forest of Paimpont.
A diverse array of species
The forests of Brittany contain a wealth of different species, including forest trees imported from neighboring regions and from other parts of the world. This diversity is the fruit of Brittany’s history: the region’s poor soils were often used for species introductions. The Breton explorers and sailors also traditionally brought back the seeds of exotic species, which were primarily sown on the estates of rich land owners.
Brittany’s forests mainly comprise European and sessile oak and beech. Other species such as American red oak, Douglas fir and Lawson cypress were introduced in the ornamental parks in the 19th century and have acclimatized since.
Who buys forests in Brittany?
Forest acquisitions in Brittany are currently gaining in popularity on the international market, with particular interest from the Chinese, which is sending wood prices rocketing. In addition, the conifer forests in which the spruce were planted in the 1960-70s are now reaching maturity.
In Brittany, forests are first and foremost acquired by locals. Land owners have some very fragmented plots, with most of them owning less than 1 hectare.
The forests in Brittany are gaining ground year on year: the result has indeed been spectacular over the past 50 years. Which has, of course, had an impact for anyone looking to buy a forest in the region.
The difference in stands, volume and the quality of trees explains the wide range of sale prices. Only an accurate valuation of the forest plot can give you a real idea of the price of your forest in Brittany.
Forêt Investissement provides this appraisal as part of a FNAIM exclusive sales mandate.
Economic view
Buying a forest in Brittany remains quite rare. Transactions are limited in number and prices rather high, due to scarce supply.
Finding a forest in Brittany can be quite a long operation. Hunting is popular and hunters always on the look-out for plots for sale.
The wood sector (sawmills and merchants) are also keen to acquire forests in Brittany.
Prices are higher than the national average: allow for over €5,000 per hectare.