VANOISE NATIONAL PARK

Created in 1963, the Parc national de la Vanoise was a pioneer among French national parks, following the example of Italy's Gran Paradiso. Initially focused on the protection of natural heritage and ecosystems, it now includes the preservation of cultural heritage and landscapes. It now has 28 member municipalities and covers more than 145,000 hectares. Nestled between the high valleys of Maurienne and Tarentaise, it is home to imposing peaks topping 3,000 meters and still retains a significant number of glaciers, although these are rapidly diminishing. Most of Pralognan-la-Vanoise falls within its boundaries, representing 70% of its territory. The creation of the Park was prompted by the alarming decline in ibex and chamois populations. Fortunately, these two species have since repopulated the steep slopes of the Vanoise. Observing them requires discretion and respect, especially during their ruminating period, crucial for accumulating the fat reserves they need to survive the winter in the snow. Unlike ibex, chamois are more shy and flee at our approach. The Park is also home to a variety of other animal species, including marmots, foxes and badgers, as well as a rich avifauna including bats, a few pairs of bearded vultures, around twenty pairs of golden eagles, black grouse and a multitude of insects. In terms of flora, the Park boasts 1,200 listed plant species, 200 of which are remarkable or endemic, including protected species such as alpine columbine, bicolored sedge and blue thistle. The Vanoise National Park offers a wide range of activities, both free and supervised. Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars, maps or 1:25,000 topographical guides. Several refuges are accessible in summer and winter, although some are only open during the summer season. Essential equipment includes warm clothing, a light rucksack and suitable footwear, but caution is advised! Last but not least, it is imperative to respect the specific regulations of the National Park, particularly as regards the ban on dogs, respect for trails, no camping, fires, plant or mineral gathering, and the restricted use of ATVs to designated sites.