| Forêt de Mormal | |
|---|---|
| Forest of Mormal | |
 The Nervii trail in the Mormal forest | |
 Interactive map of Forêt de Mormal | |
| Location | Nord, France |
| Nearest city | Avesnes-sur-Helpe, Valenciennes |
| Coordinates | 50°12′N 3°44′E / 50.200°N 3.733°E |
| Area | 9,163 ha (22,640 acres) |
| Governing body | Office national des forêts |
The Forêt de Mormal (Forest of Mormal) is a forest in France, close to the Belgian border. It is the largest forest in the Nord department, spanning over 9,100 hectares.
It is best known historically for its role during the British Expeditionary Force's retreat from Mons in August 1914. Its dense terrain and perceived lack of passable roads forced I and II Corps of the British army to divide, keeping the two corps separated for several days. Despite this, some British units did navigate the forest, while elements of the advancing German army passed through it as well, taking Haig's I Corps by surprise.
Because the Nord department is one of France's departments with the least tree coverage, the Forêt de Mormal at a modest 9135 hectares is the largest forest in the department . The most common trees are oak, beech and hornbeam. There's a network of small streams which flows from the high ground in the middle which contributes to the forest's biodiversity. The forest is a significant refuge for wildlife, including the department's only deer population.
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