©Côte d’Azur France Tourisme / Lionel Lecourtier

Discover the Mercantour National Park, a naturally authentic area

If you’re looking for breathtaking scenery, the Mercantour National Park is for you! On the border between France and Italy, the Mercantour National Park boasts an exceptional heritage. With over 550 kilometres of footpaths, hikers will discover panoramic views of the Mediterranean stretching as far as the eye can see. Ranging in altitude from 300 to over 3,000 metres, the Park covers eight valleys with unique identities and an extraordinary wealth of vegetation: the Roya, Bévéra, Vésubie and Tinée, the high valleys of the Var, Cians and Verdon, and the Ubaye. The biological wealth, scenic beauty, cultural interest and historically preserved character of this area justify special protection.

Mercantour National Park: preserving biodiversity

In the Mercantour National Park, ibexes, chamois, moufflons, marmots and birds can all be seen at the turn of a path!

The Park’s primary mission is to protect and enhance the natural environments, flora and fauna, as well as the cultural heritage and landscapes that surround it. The “National Park” designation is recognised throughout the world as the highest level of quality and protection for natural areas. A multitude of actions are carried out with a view to sustainable development and raising visitor awareness.

With this in mind, the Mercantour National Park has produced an atlas listing all the wild species observed by its staff since it was founded in 1979.

Each new sighting is added in real time to the data sheets for each species, which you can consult to share and expand your knowledge of Alpine biodiversity.

Discover Biodiv'Mercantour!

Esprit parc national, a brand inspired by nature!

Launched in 2015, the Esprit parc national brand is inspired by the values it embodies: commitment, sharing, respect, authenticity and vitality. The brand highlights products and services designed by companies committed to preserving our heritage. Organic farming, agriculture, promotion of local breeds and varieties… the emphasis is on short circuits and the local economy. This eco-responsible philosophy also applies to tourism. Whether in terms ofaccommodation, catering, site visits, discovery activities or ideas for breaks, businesses are limiting water and energy consumption, sorting waste, encouraging soft mobility and promoting local products and know-how. These are all ways of raising visitors’ awareness of the virtues of environmentally-friendly practices.

The Esprit Parc National brand!

Charming landscapes and lush greenery for an unforgettable stay

For a relaxing stay close to nature, many of our gîtes have been awarded the Esprit parc national label. At the Relais des Merveilles, the sound of birdsong will gently wake you up. When night falls, take the opportunity to admire the Milky Way. You’re sure to feel totally disconnected from everyday life.

The Gîte d’étape de Bousieyas is one of those little mountain café-restaurants with a warm atmosphere and a friendly welcome after a good day’s hiking! Five cosy nests await you at Le Chant du Mélé for birds just passing through or for a longer stay.

The table d’hôtes is based on local produce, allowing you to rediscover forgotten flavours. At Ferme Saint-Joseph, in the heart of a pretty orchard, you’ll find all the comforts of home.

Discover Esprit Parc national accommodation!

A night in a refuge, a unique experience in the heart of unspoilt nature

If you’re feeling adventurous and you’ve decided to embark on the great Mercantour traverse, which links the high mountains to the sea over almost 200km of breathtaking scenery, or if you’re more of a 2 or 3-hour hiker, you’ll need to take a breath of fresh air in one of the many refuges that inspire conviviality and boast an authentic soul.

Surrounded by the highest peaks and their eternal snows, the Nice refuge offers a pleasant stopover on its panoramic terrace overlooking the Lac de la Fous. Whether you prefer hiking, mountaineering, fishing or ski touring, you’ll find what you’re looking for at the Valmasque refuge.

At the foot of Mont Clapier, you can walk between the mountain lakes to the Merveilles refuge. The Vens refuge is one of those magical places where a waterfall flows through an ancient glacial cirque. All in all, it’s a unique way to rediscover a taste for the simple things in life.

Find your refuge in the Mercantour!

See this post on Instagram
A publication shared by Parc national du Mercantour (@pnmercantour)

This summer, discover the Mercantour by train or bus!

Say goodbye to overcrowded car parks and stressful mountain roads, and free your mind by relaxing in transport and admiring the scenery.

In the Mercantour valleys, you can now enjoy magnificent walks in the National Park without needing your car.

The mobility network in the region is well developed, with trains, buses and tourist shuttles offering travellers a convenient alternative to the car. Each valley is linked to the urban centres by a regular bus service, and bus services are often more frequent in summer.

Regional trains such as the Train des Merveilles and Chemins de Fer de Provence also provide access to the mountains and allow you to discover the local heritage.

Summer tourist shuttles and transport on demand are also available to take you to specific sites, including the starting points for hikes.

Among the sites accessible this summer are Gordolasque, Boréon, Castérino, Estenc, Larche/Le Lauzanier, Val d’Allos, Saint Dalmas Le Selvage, as well as Pra Loup, Valberg, La Colmiane, Isola 2000, Auron, and many others.

For more information, check out the links in the e-brochure below or contact the Tourist Offices.