4 - A weekend discovering National Parks

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Often underrated or hidden treasures, France's National Parks play a crucial role in the national identity of the country. Don't be put off by the deteriorating weather, simply swap your sandals and bikini for your walking boots and waterproof and head out for some peace and quiet away from the city. Breathtaking expanses of natural beauty, France's National Parks offer the perfect opportunity to spend a weekend (re)connecting with nature. With endless flora and fauna, endangered species and breathtaking landscapes, these national parks fortunately benefit from strongly enforced protection policies.

Whether it be the National Park of Cevennes (in Languedoc Roussillon and Rhône-Alpes) with its vast granite massifs; the National Park of Vanoise (in Rhône-Alpes) with its ibex, antelopes and 40 golden eagles; the Mercantour National Park with its wolves; the Port-Cros National Park (in Provence-Alpes Côtes-d'Azur) with its 500 species of algae; or the National Park of the Pyrenees (in Aquitaine and Midi-Pyrénées) with its 26 bearded eagles; each of these natural spaces has something unique to offer.

Far from the hustle-and-bustle of urban life and from the mentality of consumerism, this return to nature simultaneously promotes well-being and allows time and space to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of your surroundings. However, this tranquility does not translate to boredom for the children. Although subject to many regulations, visitors can still enjoy many family activities in these parks. Obviously, hiking is the first option for many tourists, yet guided animal observations are also worth a try. Further ideas for amusement include learning the trades and crafts of local people, who teach us how to live in harmony with the animals of these national parks and our environment.

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