France, with all its glamour, romance and culture, boasts of one of Europe’s most stunning natural sceneries: its National Parks. Found throughout the country, each National Park in France is home to a unique and diverse ecosystem that is protected and preserved for all to enjoy. From snow-capped mountains to rolling hills, from dense forests to turquoise lagoons. These stunning parks offer visitors the chance to explore the natural beauty of France at its finest. Let’s have a closer look at some of France’s top national parks and what makes them stand out.
History of National Parks in France
The history of national parks in France dates back to 1963 when the first national park was. The French government established Vanoise National Park. Since then, they have created eight more national parks, with the most recent being Parc National des Calanques in 2019. The purpose of establishing these national parks was to protect and promote the rich biodiversity found in France. Over the years, they have become popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. France’s national parks offer a unique opportunity to witness diverse landscapes and wildlife. Making them a must-visit destination for any nature lover.
Visiting National Parks in France
Visiting National Parks in France is a unique experience for nature enthusiasts. France has a total of nine national parks. Each offers exceptional wildlife and picturesque landscapes. The history of national parks in France dates back to the 1960s when the government took action to protect and preserve these natural sites. Visitors can explore the parks by hiking, biking, skiing, or horseback riding depending on the location and season.
The top national parks in France include Vanoise National Park, Mercantour National Park, Ecrins National Park, Pyrenees National Park, and Calanques National Park. Each park has its unique features. Such as Vanoise National Park, which is the largest protected area in France and home to a wide variety of animals including chamois and ibex. Additionally, Pyrenees National Park spans over 400 square miles and has some of the highest peaks in the range. Visitors can also marvel at the stunning Calanques National Park, which features majestic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Overall, visiting National Parks in France is an excellent opportunity to reconnect with nature and experience the country’s rich biodiversity.
Top National Parks in France
France boasts nine national parks, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife. Among these, the top national parks in France include the Mercantour National Park, the Vanoise National Park, the Ecrins National Park, the Pyrenees National Park, the Calanques National Park, Port-Cros National Park, Cévennes National Park, Guiana Amazonian Park, and Réunion National Park. The Mercantour National Park in the French Alps offers panoramic views and diverse fauna. While the Vanoise National Park boasts beautiful scenery and opportunities for hiking and skiing. The Calanques National Park stands out for its stunning coastal views and scenic coves.
These national parks not only offer a glimpse into France’s awe-inspiring natural landscapes. But also provide a sanctuary for rare and endangered species. A trip to any of these national parks is a must for nature lovers and adventurers seeking a break from the busy city life.
Mercantour National Park in France
Mercantour National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure-seekers in France. As one of the most popular national parks in the country. Mercantour spans over 1,800 square kilometres and comprises six valleys. Each with its unique charm and character. From snowcapped Alps to red-rock valleys, Mercantour boasts a diverse range of landscapes and biodiversity that make it a paradise for hikers and bikers alike. Its 372 miles of guided trails provide ample opportunities for visitors to explore and discover the park’s hidden gems. Located at the gateway to the Côte d’Azur, Mercantour National Park is easily accessible and a great addition to any itinerary travelling through the South of France.
Vanoise National Park
Vanoise National Park, located in the French Alps, is the oldest national park in France, created in 1963. The park covers the Vanoise massif, stretching across the Isère and Tarentaise Valleys to the north, and is divided into two parts, one for ramblers and skiers and the other for outlying visitors. The park offers visitors a chance to explore breathtaking landscapes and exceptional biodiversity, from Ibex to Golden Eagles. Nature lovers can enjoy exploring the park’s extensive protected area, which includes hiking and skiing opportunities, mountain lakes, and high-mountain theatres. The Vanoise National Park is just one of the many national parks in France, including Mercantour, Ecrins, Pyrenees, Calanques, Port-Cros, Cévennes, Guiana Amazonian, and Réunion.
Ecrins National Park
Ecrins National Park is situated in the southeast of France in the Dauphiné Alps. It is the second largest national park in France, covering an area of 1000 sq km. This park was established in 1973 and is a true work of natural art. It offers breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and meadows that are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. With over 150 peaks reaching an altitude of over 3000m, this park is a haven for hiking and climbing enthusiasts. Ecrins National Park is the perfect choice for those who want to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and witness firsthand the wonders of the French Alps.
Pyrenees National Park
Located within the Hautes-Pyrénées and Pyrénées-Atlantiques departments of France, Pyrenees National Park is a breathtaking destination for nature enthusiasts. The park boasts stunning waterfalls, remarkable mountain ranges, and impressive granite rock faces, providing a serene escape to unspoiled natural beauty. The park’s extensive network of hiking trails makes it a paradise for walking enthusiasts. While its biodiversity protection ensures an extraordinary landscape. As one of France’s 11 national parks, Pyrenees National Park is among the country’s most-visited natural destinations, attracting adventure-seekers with activities such as hiking and mountain climbing. This jewel along the French-Spanish border offers a variety of outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for travellers looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Calanques National Park
The Mediterranean coast in Bouches-du-Rhône hosts Calanques National Park. First of all, it’s the first peri-urban national park in Europe, covering both land and sea. And is the only one that includes peri-urban areas. Established in 2012, this park spans an area of 520 km2 and is home to nearly 140 protected terrestrial and marine species. Furthermore, Calanques National Park is a place of incredible beauty and cultural heritage. Featuring diverse landscapes and unique natural features. Moreover, it’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Visitors can explore the stunning maritime scenery, hike along the coastal cliffs, or enjoy a swim in the turquoise waters. Above all, as one of the top national parks in France, Calanques National Park attracts countless tourists every year who come to experience the natural wonders of France.
Port-Cros National Park
Port-Cros National Park is a must-visit for those who love nature and adventure. Established on the Mediterranean island of Port-Cros. It is Europe’s first combined land and sea national park, spanning over 700 hectares of dry land and 1,288 hectares of marine area. The park is a haven for hikers, boasting trails that offer stunning views of the island’s coastal and marine atmosphere unique worldwide, teeming with small islets, capes, coves, canyons, and underwater meadows. Visitors who wish to explore the park on foot are advised to wear good shoes, carry water bottles, and have good knees. The park is also home to abundant flora and fauna, which visitors can observe while hiking or availing of the park’s snorkelling and diving activities. The park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, providing visitors with opportunities to learn, relax, and reconnect with nature.
Cévennes National Park
The Cévennes National Park is certainly one of the more secluded national parks in France. But that only adds to its charm. Created in 1970, it covers a massive territory of 2,973 km2, making it one of the largest national parks in the country. Its mountainous terrain, situated in the departments of Lozère and Gard in southern France, provides visitors with an unforgettable natural experience. The park is brimming with stunning landscapes comprised of unspoiled countryside, pristine torrents, and winding rivers.
As well as, the park is known for its rich and diverse flora and fauna, which includes rare species such as the Bonelli’s eagle and the Eurasian lynx. Visitors can enjoy walking, hiking, or cycling along the park’s numerous trails while taking in its breathtaking views. The Cévennes National Park is a prime example of the natural beauty that France has to offer. As well as, it is an excellent addition to any visitor’s itinerary.
Guiana Amazonian Park
Guiana Amazonian Park, the largest national park in France, covers over 30,000km² and aims to protect the Amazonian forest located in French Guiana. Due to its location, it is only accessible by air or canoe along the Maroni and Oyapock rivers. Despite its remoteness, the park has a rich cultural and archaeological history, showcasing the diversity of the surrounding forests. As one of the ten national parks of France. Whether it’s exploring the cultural treasures or the fascinating wildlife. Moreover, Guiana Amazonian Park is a must-visit for any nature enthusiast.
Réunion National Park
The Réunion National Park is located on the island of Réunion. Furthermore, it is a remarkable addition to France’s list of national parks. In fact, this park accounts for over 40 per cent of the island’s surface area and was established in 2007 to preserve the island’s unique biodiversity. Additionally, the volcanic landscapes, including an active volcano, Piton de la Fournaise, are some of the most exceptional UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the park.
Furthermore, the park offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore a tropical wonderland with variations in climates, elevations, and terrains. By being included in France’s list of national parks, the Réunion National Park joins an impressive list that includes the likes of the Vanoise National Park, Ecrins National Park, and the Pyrenees National Park, among others. However, there are several national parks in France that offer incredible experiences for visitors. But the Réunion National Park provides a spectacular combination of biodiversity, landscapes, and cultural heritage that sets it apart.
Conclusion
In conclusion, France boasts nine national parks. Each national park is home to exceptional wildlife and is protected by the French government in collaboration with local authorities. Additionally, from the alpine landscapes of Vanoise National Park to the stunning coastal cliffs of Calanques National Park. Moreover, these parks offer visitors a chance to experience some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in Europe. Furthermore, with a focus on preserving the local environment and promoting sustainable tourism. As well as, France’s national parks serve as a model for conservation efforts around the world. In fact, whether it’s for hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature. A visit to one of these parks is a must for any traveller to France.
