Nature and Landscapes Viewing Ecrins National Park

The varied landscapes of the Ecrins National Park foster the development of a surprising and sometimes exceptional biodiversity. Forests, valleys, mountain pastures, rivers, lakes, rock ledges: every species has its preferred habitat. And so many ways for visitors to discover the mountains differently!

Nature is preserved in the Ecrins National Park. You can alternate between gazing at the immense panoramas, taking a look at the flowers and beetles, observing thousand-year-old fossils or the Chamois herd’s newly born kids. There’s something for everyone with the multitude of adventures provided by mountain professionals. These people who live daily in the Ecrins strive to share their love of the area and their commitment to preserving it.

A culture of respect for nature

Mountain-dwelling professionals are pleased to introduce visitors to the richness of their area throughout the year and they take all the necessary precautions when doing so. Their understanding of nature is equal to the respect they show to it. That’s why their byword will always be to observe without disturbing! And it’s also why during an outing; you will most certainly have the good fortune to spot raptors flying above the National Park. And with a bit of luck, you may even be able to watch animals being returned to the wild having been taken care of at the Aquila health centre.

Head off and discover raptors in the Embrunais

With a spectacular wingspan up to 2.80 meters, Griffon Vultures soar majestically over Embrunais. Amateurs of open spaces interspersed by cliffs and staggering peaks, these vultures find the Coupa pass an ideal nesting ground. A telescope has been set up at the entrance to the Gourniers hamlet to take advantage of the show at a distance. To get a closer view and to learn more about their daily habits, you can get involved in in bird counting in late August every year.

Observe mythical animals in Briançonnais

Sudden immersion in complete nature, this is the promise which awaits you in Briançonnais. The valleys are home to a particularly abundant mountain wildlife and plants. Among the local stars, you can hope to get a glimpse of the majestic Golden Eagle, the elusive Chamois, the impressive Alpine Ibex or the cute marmot

Explore the wild Valbonnais Valley

The Valbonnais covers almost half of the forest of the Ecrins National Park. Steep-sided, wild and preserved, this is also the least visited valley of the range. It represents a tranquil haven for many species and a unique opportunity to observe these rare and protected animals and plants. They include in particular the Rosalia Longicorn, a magnificent sky-blue and black beetle, or the Lady’s Slipper, the largest (and maybe the most beautiful) orchid in Europe.