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©Bouquetin Agneliere Crt Cote D Azur France Lionellecourtier1.jpg 1200px|Côte d'Azur France Tourisme / Lionel LECOURTIER

The Mercantour, an ecotourism destination

Discover ecotourism in the Mercantour with the Mercantour Ecotourism Association. Committed to preserving our heritage, the association offers you unique and responsible experiences. Hikes, tastings, accommodation in the heart of nature: explore the Mercantour in a more authentic way!

The Mercantour Ecotourism Association for a benchmark ecotourism destination

The Mercantour Ecotourism Association brings together a network of players (accommodation providers, farmers, mountain guides, craftspeople, etc.) committed to protecting and promoting the natural and cultural heritage of the six Mercantour valleys. With one objective, to make the Parc National du Mercantour a benchmark destination for ecotourism!

In close collaboration with the Mercantour National Park, the Mercantour Ecotourism Association has defined its ambitions according to the principles of the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism, a benchmark for the implementation of sustainable tourism in protected natural areas in Europe. In order to guarantee balanced economic, social and environmental development of the territory, member professionals undertake to offer visitors more responsible travel experiences based on the following commitments:

  • Guarantee the discovery of local landscapes, heritage and architecture.
  • Integrate the place of stay and activities with the environment as much as possible.
  • Enhance the environmental management of activities.
  • Enhance mountain lifestyles and raise awareness of nature.
  • Propose an authentic encounter with the local inhabitants.
  • Link the content of the tourist offer to the area.
  • Prefer soft travel and public transport.

Exploration Ecotourism in the Heart of the Mercantour: Savoir-faire, Biodiversity and Authenticity

Immersed in the heart of an exceptional protected area, set off to discover the know-how, biodiversity, heritage and villages that forge the identity of the territory.

Hike or snowshoe, climb, explore nature, discover a high-altitude arboretum, donkey ride, visit forts by night or sample local produce – there are plenty of activities to help you explore the Mercantour, taking time for contemplation.

Food-wise, savour local cuisine in member inns and restaurants, and accommodation-wise, experience a night in the wild in a refuge but also in a chambre d’hôte or gîte where conviviality will be the order of the day.

To extend the experience

Would you like to extend the experience beyond a day’s activity?

Mercantour Ecotourisme also offers themed weekends and short breaks (Haute Tinée Bivouac Weekend, Gourmet Weekend – snowshoeing in a mountain chalet in winter) that can combine sporting activity, heritage discovery, gourmet moment but also transmission of knowledge and tales and legends.

The Mercantour National Park’s tour operators (travel agencies and accredited guide offices), members of the Mercantour Ecotourism association, are on hand to help you design your own tailor-made holidays!

YOU'LL LOVE IT TOO!