The Mercantour National Park extends over 7 valleys in the “Mediterranean Alps”, making up a vast territory, the last promontory of the southern Alpine arc before plunging into the deep blue sea. The Verdon marks the eastern gateway to this temple of nature.
Biological richness, scenic beauty and cultural interest justify special protection. But there’s no point in protecting and knowing if you can’t give it back. Of the park’s many missions, ensuring that this exceptional heritage is passed on to future generations is undoubtedly the most significant.
The bid to achieve UNESCO World Heritage status is under way, for the recognition of a heritage of great geological originality, regarded as unique on earth.
What an opportunity for you to rub shoulders with this wonderful wild and preserved heritage and to help your children discover it! What a pleasure to recharge your batteries in nature bathed in the sunshine of the Southern Alps!
Gilles’ adviceA magical place for the eyes and senses. If you listen carefully, you can hear the birds singing and the water flowing from the stream. Breathe in the scent of moss in the undergrowth and the myriad flowers in the meadows.
The Mercantour National Park is part of the Alpes Azur Mercantour International Dark Sky Reserve, one of 14 sites worldwide. It’s like an explosion of glowing confetti in the sky! Thousands of stars shine and twinkle in the clear night sky. It’s a simple, fleeting joy to have your feet on the ground and your head lost in the stars: in the night, you’ll be Saint-Exupéry’s Little Prince. So turn off your lights—it’s high time to let the stars shine again!
If only there were mountains polished by glaciers, lakes or waterfalls…but a thousand and one animal and plant species bring their share of enchantment and emotion. So present and so wild, they are accessible with a little effort and patience…
From the infinitely small to the sometimes invisible, a mosaic of 2,067 plant species and 8,744 animal species will fill your explorer’s soul with wonder. Admire them with respect as they are precious treasures for humanity.
Vertigo of an encounter: marmots, ibexes, birds of prey, insects and other small creatures, discover the 5 most emblematic species of the National Park.
The Mercantour National Park and the Haut-Verdon Valley are an ideal starting point for a wide variety of well-marked hikes for both experienced hikers and beginners.
From a simple stroll that takes you to stunning lakes where you can simply take it all in, to hikes that involve steep climbs (…and plenty of sweating…), unafraid ibex and chamois will delight you in this vibrant, preserved, and authentic setting located just 1 hour and 30 minutes from the sea.
Contemplating the landscape, the flight of vultures and climbers, breathing and taking time to refocus.
Lac d’Allos is Europe’s largest natural high-altitude lake. Nestled at an altitude of 2,230 metres in a magnificent natural setting, it lies at the heart of the Mercantour.
Depart from Lac d’Allos and climb Mont Pelat. At 3,051 m, it is the highest peak in the upper Verdon valley. On a clear day, you can even make out Corsica. A breathtaking panorama awaits you!
To find out more about the cultural and natural heritage of the Mercantour and Alpi Marittime, consult the Cross-border Atlas.
Discover
Before setting off on your Mercantour adventure. Here are a few tips:
The regulations applicable in the heart of the Mercantour National Park ensure the protection of our heritage and the preservation of plant and animal species. Camping, walking with pets, driving and parking on certain roads, etc. are all prohibited.
See the regulations in detail
Why not spend the night in a refuge, with the stars as a screen and the valleys lit up at sunrise?
You’ll feel like you’ve been away much longer, and your children will feel like they’re on an adventure.
In the midst of nature
Founded in 2012, the Mercantour Ecotourism Association is a network of tourism professionals: lodging providers, farmers, mountain guides, artisans, artists, and more…
All residents of the Mercantour valleys and dedicated partners of the Park, they work to develop responsible and sustainable tourism that respects the environment while ensuring visitors have unforgettable experiences.
Preparing well
Vote for your 3 favourite things to do in the Verdon this season!
