3 National Parks You Have to See in France

Parc national des Ecrins, Pelvoux, France
Pelvoux, France. Photo by Maƫl BALLAND on Unsplash

As a country, France has more than its fair share of stunning landscapes, exciting trails, and natural wonders. From the snow-capped Alps to the golden sands of the Riviera coast, locals and visitors alike can appreciate the natural beauty and splendor of France. If you’re visiting the country this spring or summer, head to one of these fabulous national parks, each of which offers a unique insight into the animals, plant life, and beauty of France.

Camargue Regional National Park

This wetland wonderland is situated on the south coast, near the city of Marseilles. It is famed for its native flocks of flamingoes, but there are plenty of other wetlands and wading birds to see. Although this area of France is incredibly popular, the Camargue maintains a sense of peace and tranquillity, so it’s a must-visit if you’re seeking some relaxing time in nature.

Morvan National Regional Park

Situated in the province of Burgundy, this gorgeous national park offers plenty of idyllic woodland walks, traditional farmsteads, and bucolic fields. This landscape is best visited in high spring or early summer, but the trees will also look stunning in the fall. There are many well-marked trails through the national park, so you can enjoy a relaxing ramble or a more strenuous climb, depending on what you’re looking for.

The Ardeche Mountains National Regional Park

These mountains are located in the southeast of the country. While they may not be quite as big or as bold as the famous Alps, there are plenty of reasons to visit this range. The hiking and climbing trails here are generally much more accessible for beginners than those found in the Alps, and there are plenty of stunning views from the mountains, stretching out across the Massif Centrale.