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Vanoise National Park: France's First National Park

Explore France's first national park: Vanoise, a protected alpine haven with stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and endless hiking opportunities.

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Established in 1963, Vanoise National Park is France's oldest national park, protecting a vast alpine wilderness bordering Italy's Gran Paradiso National Park. It's a haven for diverse flora and fauna, including ibex, chamois, and marmots, with stunning landscapes of glaciers, high peaks, and alpine meadows. The park offers 400 km of marked trails for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Parc national de la Vanoise

Local tips

  • Visit in late June or early July to witness the vibrant display of alpine wildflowers in bloom.
  • Bring binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing, especially for spotting chamois and ibex on higher slopes.
  • Check trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
  • Adhere to park regulations: no dogs, no picking plants, and pack out all trash.
  • Consider staying in a mountain refuge for a unique and immersive alpine experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Many towns surrounding Vanoise National Park, such as Modane, Bourg-Saint-Maurice, and Moûtiers, are accessible by train. From these towns, buses connect to various park entrances and villages within the park's periphery. For example, from Moûtiers station, the S66 bus line runs to Pralognan-la-Vanoise throughout the year. A train + bus combination offers a low-carbon travel option. Bus tickets typically cost a few euros for short trips within the area.

  • Car

    Several roads lead to villages and access points around Vanoise National Park. From these villages, parking areas are available for accessing hiking trails. For example, to reach the 'Coeur' area from Aussois, you can drive via the Route des Barrages and park at the Plan d'Amont parking lot. Parking fees vary depending on the location, but expect to pay around €5-€10 per day in popular areas. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season.

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Discover more about Parc national de la Vanoise

Vanoise National Park, nestled in the heart of the French Alps, is a protected area renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Established in 1963, it was France's first national park, created to protect the iconic ibex and preserve the region's unique alpine environment. The park shares a border with Italy's Gran Paradiso National Park, forming one of the largest protected areas in Western Europe. The park's landscape is diverse, encompassing towering peaks, extensive glaciers, verdant alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. The highest point is the Grande Casse, reaching 3,855 meters. Vanoise is home to a remarkable array of wildlife, including the iconic ibex, chamois, marmots, golden eagles, and numerous other species of birds, insects, and amphibians. Over 1,200 species of alpine plants add vibrant color to the landscape, especially in June when wildflowers bloom. The park is divided into two zones: a central, highly protected area and a peripheral zone with villages and ski resorts. Visitors can explore over 400 kilometers of marked trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks. Popular activities include hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife watching. Several mountain refuges offer accommodation and respite for hikers. The Maison de la Vanoise visitor centers provide information, exhibits, and guided activities. To preserve this fragile environment, regulations are in place, such as restrictions on motorized vehicles, dogs, and camping. Visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife, stay on marked trails, and take all waste with them.

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