Nature near the city
Enjoy the unspoilt nature, ancient villages and walking trails of the Parc du Pilat, a protected nature park right on the doorstep of Saint-Etienne.  Don’t miss the sweeping views north from the Crêt de la Perdrix across the city and beyond.

Dramatic peaks
See the Alps from Mont Gerbier de Jonc in the Monts d’Ardèche Regional Nature Park, where several streams join to form the Loire, longest river in France. Nearby Mont Mézenc forms the natural watershed between the Atlantic and Mediterranean.

Vercors Regional Nature Park
The protected natural landscape of the Vercors plateau in northern Drôme was a key area of Resistance activity.  Get back to nature amongst its unspoilt villages and deep valleys, explore quiet footpaths, and visit spectacular underground caves.

Vanoise Park
Eco-tourism is high on the agenda of the Parc de la Vanoise, the first national park in France, created in 1963.  Arrive through Pralognan to visit the villages of Haute Maurienne such as Bonneval sur Arc and Ecot, looking out for the resident ibex.

Ecrins Park
Largest national park in France, the Parc des Ecrins is famous for its glaciers and lofty peaks, home to large birds of prey such as golden eagle.  Back at ground level, you may be lucky enough to spot a shy chamois, an ibex, or a cheeky marmotte.

Haut-Jura
Overlooking Lac Léman, the mountain ridge of the Parc du Haut-Jura offers stunning views to the Alps. Get close to nature on the upland trails then relax on the flat land below in the pretty spa town of Divonne-les-Bains with its parks and casino.