Why plan an adventure in Mercantour National Park in France

Mercantour is one of our all-time favourite places, and we are not alone. In the widely respected Lonely Planet guide the French national park made top ranking. So here is why you should plan an adventure in Mercantour National Park in France.

Mercantour National Park in France

If you’ve never heard of the place, take a look below. And if you have a national park in mind that you think has talents to match, just let us know in the comments at the bottom.

If the name Mercantour rings no bells, don’t worry. I’m sure you know of Nice. Well, travel north for an hour, and Voila! You are in the Reserve de Chasse du Mercantour, or the Mercantour National Park.

Despite attracting more than 800,000 visitors per year, the region remains relatively unspoilt. Cut by glacial erosion, the park has peaks up to 3,143m, and many more to suit the less experienced climber or mountaineer.

Wildlife is protected throughout its 685 square kilometres, and thanks to the dedication of the park’s staff, paths are maintained and species protected. Here you can find wolves, marmots, chamoise deer, ibex, and mouflon.

Adventure in Mercantour National Park

Whoever named the park’s Valley des Merveilles, was clearly impressed: translated this means Valley of Marvels. And for the adventurous the excitement does not stop there.

For most of the year you can go white water rafting or kayaking, hiking and biking, rock climbing and mountaineering plus so much more. In the winter snow sports are available such as skiing and snowboarding and snowshoeing.

If you can think of a better national park to explore, let us know. My nomination is adventures in the Lake District National Park in the UK where you’ll find all manner of activities.

We hope this article inspires you to plan an adventure in Mercantour National Park in France. Be sure to check out our France activity holidays for more inspiration.