Mercantour National Park
A natural gem in the heart of the Alpes de Haute Provence
The Mercantour National Park is an exceptional mountain area, where unspoiled nature unfolds between peaks over 3 meters above sea level, high-altitude lakes, and secret valleys. Located between the Alpes-Maritimes and the Alpes de Haute Provence, it covers 000 hectares and is a true sanctuary of biodiversity.
Remarkable flora and fauna
With over 2 plant species, including some endemic ones like the Alpine columbine and lady's slipper, Mercantour is a true paradise for botany enthusiasts. As for wildlife, you can observe chamois, marmots, ibex, and even wolves, symbols of the return of a balanced ecosystem.
Mercantour: a hiking paradise
Hikers will find numerous marked trails suitable for all levels. Among the must-see routes:
- The tour of Lake Allos, the largest natural high-altitude lake in Europe, accessible from Val d'Allos.
- The GR®56 Tour of Ubaye, a 157 km circuit linking passes, lakes and typical villages of the Ubaye valley.
- Mount Pelat (3 m), offering a spectacular panorama of the Southern Alps and Lake Allos.
- The Retrouvance® Circuit Haut-Verdon – Val d'Entrunes, an immersion in the heart of nature between larch forests and high-altitude lakes.
Authentic villages and preserved heritage
Mercantour includes the Ubaye and Haut-Verdon valleys, rich in exceptional cultural and architectural heritage.
- Barcelonnette, capital of Ubaye, is distinguished by its Mexican heritage and its colorful houses.
- Allos et Colmars-les-Alpes, authentic mountain villages, offer an ideal setting for nature and history lovers.
- Oronaye Valley, gateway to Italy, is home to magnificent Alpine landscapes.
Access and location
Mercantour National Park
Located in the heart of the Alpes de Haute Provence, it is easily accessible from the main cities of the South of France.
From Marseille or Aix-en-Provence, it's about a 2-hour drive via the A30 motorway. You can then follow the departmental roads leading to the Ubaye Valley or Haut-Verdon.
The SNCF train stations of Gap and Digne-les-Bains, as well as regional bus lines, also provide access to the municipalities of the Park.
A connection with the department's major tourism sectors
The Mercantour National Park is at the heart of several strategic sectors in the Alpes de Haute Provence:
- The outdoor sector : hiking, trail running, mountain biking and mountaineering find an exceptional playground here.
- Lakes and rivers : from Lake Allos to the torrents of Ubaye and Verdon, water is omnipresent and ideal for nautical activities.
- The link with the future Grand Site de France of the Gorges du Verdon : the Haut-Verdon and the Mercantour extend the spectacular landscapes of the Gorges du Verdon and the Route des Crêtes.
- The geology sector : the park is part of the "Haute-Provence Geoparks and Reserve" gem, promoting a unique geological heritage.
A mark of excellence: Esprit Parc National
The "Esprit Parc National" label recognizes those committed to a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach. You'll find this label among local accommodation providers, artisans, and producers in the region.
Preservation of natural and cultural heritage with Mercantour Ecotourism
La nature lovers and montains are the passions shared by all members of the Mercantour Ecotourism association. They are professionals attached to their territory: the Mercantour valleys.
In partnership with the Mercantour National Park, they help you discover biodiversity, know-how, the Natural Heritage et cultural. They will also share all the stories who forged theidentity of their territory.
In the heart of exceptional biodiversity, you will love the know-how and the thousand and one stories that make up the identity and life of the villages. So expect to experience in complete relaxation and conviviality, special moments based on human contact and, of course, quality services.
The values and missions of theassociation are linked to ecotourism and the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism.
Different activities et holiday offers are thus offered to take maximum advantage of this natural paradise nestled in the heart of the Southern Alps.
You are simply looking for a an accommodation, a place of F&B ? Do you want to discover the local produce, a sports activity or rather cultural in the heart of the Mercantour Park? Let yourself be guided by a team of professionals.
Prepare your exploration of Mercantour. Enjoy a unique experience in the heart of one of France's last remaining wildernesses!
Stay in the Mercantour National Park
Family ski weekend with teens: great skiing. Treat yourself to a mosaic of unforgettable experiences...
