Where is the Vanoise National Park located?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Vanoise](\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/mountains-gf7418d527_640.jpg\")
The Vanoise National Park is a national park located in France in the Savoie department in the Auvergne-Rh\u00f4ne-Alpes region.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe National Park of the<\/a>http:\/\/www.vanoise-parcnational.fr\/fr<\/a>Vanoise<\/a> is located in the Savoie department, part of the Auvergne-Rh\u00f4ne-Alpes region. <\/p>\n\n\n\nIt is surrounded by two valleys: the Tarentaise to the North and the Maurienne to the South.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Facts and figures about the national park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n\n- Date of creation: July 6, 1963 <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Highest altitude: 3,855 m (Grande Casse) <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Lowest altitude: 1,280 m <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Number of peaks above 3,000 m: 107 <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Total area of the central zone: 528.39 km2 <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Total number of municipalities: 28 <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Length of the border with Gran Paradiso National Park: 14 km <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Total area including the twin Italian park: 1,250 km2 (the largest protected area in Western Europe) <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Total length of hiking trails: 400 km<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
History of the Vanoise National Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The idea of creating a National Park in Vanoise dates back to 1943 under the impetus of the French Alpine Club, the Touring Club of France and hunters. . <\/p>\n\n\n\n
These groups expressed their concern about the gradual disappearance of the ibex. . <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many hesitated regarding the creation of such a protected area. There were various reasons for this, both political and economic. Others were reluctant to have parts of their own territories included in the park. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This led to the creation of two distinct zones: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- a central zone (with maximum protection) <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- and a peripheral zone whose purpose was to nurture the natural, cultural and economic wealth of the region.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The Vanoise National Park was officially created in 1963 and thus became the first National Park in France. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The two parks have been twinned since 1972. Together they cover an area of 1,250 km2, representing the largest protected area in Western Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Natural environment and climate in the Vanoise National Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Vanoise](\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/mountains-gca2c9d428_640.jpg\")
The climate is unfavorable for 9 months out of 12 in the Vanoise Regional Natural Park<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nIdeally located in the heart of the French Alps, between the Maurienne and Tarentaise valleys, the Vanoise massif includes: 107 peaks over 3,000 meters high, and about twenty glaciers that feed many powerful rivers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The most famous peaks are: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- the Grande Casse (3,855 m) in the center of the Park, <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Mont Pourri (3,779 m) near Bourg Saint-Maurice, <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- La Grande Motte (3,656 m) near Tignes, <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- the summit of Bellec\u00f4te (3,416 m), <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- and the Dent Parrach\u00e9e (3,684) above Modane in Maurienne.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The Prealps and the Belledonne massif protect the Vanoise massif. Consequently, the region generally enjoys a sunny summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, the winters are unsurprisingly harsh, with an arctic climate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The role of the national park in the community<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The National Park is committed to protecting the landscapes, sites and biological diversity of the Vanoise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
His challenge is to reconcile the protection of his territory while allowing people to visit this incredible place. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In order to find a good balance, he works with three main objectives: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- environmental protection, <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- the reception <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- and informing the public, <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
A team of 35 rangers ensures that visitors comply with the park's rules. This team has the authority to issue fines for any violations. However, far from simply being the park's enforcers, they are often the ones who lead guided walks with visitors, sharing their knowledge and passion for the area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A National Park is a natural area, open to all, but subject to a strict code of conduct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To avoid fines (ranging from 12 to 150 euros) for violating the Park Regulations, it is best to follow the rules carefully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The circulation of motor vehicles, fishing and the gathering of plants are strictly prohibited, while dogs are not allowed as they may disturb the wildlife.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wildlife in Vanoise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Vanoise](\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/ibex-g571711024_640.jpg\")
The richness of the wildlife in the Vanoise National Park is undeniable.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nIf you are patient enough to observe the wildlife, you will see that the Park has a rich and varied fauna.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ibex<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Observing an ibex is undoubtedly the most rewarding experience, as the alpine animal almost disappeared from the French Alps about fifty years ago. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
From 40 individuals in 1963, the ibex population has multiplied to over 2,000 today. They represent the largest ibex population in France. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The challenge was met and the ibex became the emblem of the Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chamois <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The other alpine animal is the chamois, whose numbers fell to 400 in 1963. Today, there are more than 5,500! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It has become easier to see them while walking in the Park. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marmot<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Like the chamois and the ibex, the little marmot is an emblematic animal of the Vanoise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While in Alsace people might be looking for a stork nesting atop a chimney, in Vanoise they'll only be satisfied with the sight of the cute little rodent. The marmot is easily spotted when people are quiet for a while. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The shrill cry of the marmot is the signal of their presence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The small animal is not bothered by the thousands of skiers in the peripheral area because it hibernates under the snow for 6 months from October to March.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The marmot has truly established itself in Vanoise, occupying all areas: sunny grassy slopes and rocky areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tarentaise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The region is most famous for its cheese, made from the milk of the famous Tarentaise cows. . <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The complex flavor of Beaufort cheese, for example, is due to several conditions involving this breed of cow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Flora in Vanoise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Vanoise](\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/primula-hirsuta-g20d94c7f0_640.jpg\")
The Piedmont Primrose is a species you can admire in the park.<\/em> <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nOne of the most colorful images you can have of the Vanoise in summer is that of the high pastures covered with alpine flowers. . <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Vanoise region boasts an impressive floral landscape with over 1,200 different plant varieties. June is the best month to visit Vanoise National Park, as a multitude of flowers in every color stand out against the shimmering mountain peaks. For seeing the high-altitude flora, July and August are the best months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many species are protected even outside the boundaries of the National Park. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A good thing to do is to bring along a book describing the flowers and their pictures when hiking in the area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In Vanoise, you will find different vegetation depending on the altitude.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The best sites to see in the peripheral zone of the national park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Outside the boundaries of the national park, there is a wide range of ski and summer resorts to explore, as well as picturesque alpine villages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ski resorts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Vanoise region is surrounded by some of the best ski resorts in the world: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- La Plagne <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Les Arcs <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tignes <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Val d'Is\u00e8re <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Courchevel <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Les Menuires <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- M\u00e9ribel <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Val Thorens<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Small towns, villages and Baroque churches<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There are also beautiful villages to see, some with superb Baroque churches: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Pralognan-la-Vanoise <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Champagny-en-Vanoise <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bozel <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- St Bon Tarentaise <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Brides-les-Bains <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Moutiers <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Love <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Landry <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Peisey-Nancroix <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bourg-Saint-Maurice <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Ste-Foy Tarentaise <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bonneval sur Arc <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bessans <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Aussois<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Places to stay in the Vanoise National Park <\/h2>\n\n\n\n![\"Vanoise](\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/mountain-g8c02ac7c2_640.jpg\")
The Vanoise National Park, a splendid place open all year round<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nIt is best to research what you want to do before booking your stay to ensure that everything is nearby - or it is highly recommended to rent a car. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You will find many hiking trails near Val d'Is\u00e8re, while Tignes includes many activities and is an excellent place for mountain biking. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Both are also top-notch ski resorts! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fortunately, Val d'Is\u00e8re and Tignes are practically next door to each other, making them easy to explore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scattered throughout the Vanoise National Park, at high altitudes, you will find welcoming mountain huts, which will allow you to relax after your hikes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
There is the Fond d'Aussois refuge on the Col d'Aussois and Pointe de l'Observatoire hike and the Lac Blanc refuge on the Lac Blanc de Termignon hike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to get to Vanoise National Park <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you are travelling to Vanoise National Park by plane, the two closest main airports are Geneva (GVA) and Lyon (LYS), and it takes about two to three hours to get to Val d'Is\u00e8re. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You could consider taking a train or bus from Lyon or Geneva, but it is probably better to rent a car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another option is the small Chamb\u00e9ry International Airport (CMF), which may be a little more expensive than other airports. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When it comes to holidays in national parks, Vanoise National Park is a fantastic place to get out and explore the backcountry of France, away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds that flock to Paris, Nice and other cities in this amazing country!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Enjoy\u00a0summer holidays in the mountains<\/strong>\u00a0by booking your next stay at Chalet Alouette<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRESERVE<\/a>R<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n
What do you think?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You are welcome to leave a comment below.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The Vanoise National Park, in Savoie, was the first of its kind to be created in France in 1963. Discover our beginner's guide.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":305,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[20],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-273","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-les-alentours"],"yoast_head":"\n
Parc national de la Vanoise : guide d\u00e9butant, randonn\u00e9es, acc\u00e8s<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Le Parc National de la Vanoise, en Savoie a \u00e9t\u00e9 le premier du genre \u00e0 \u00eatre cr\u00e9\u00e9 en France en 1963. D\u00e9couvrez notre guide pour d\u00e9butants.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/vanoise-national-park-guide\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Guide du Parc National de la Vanoise (pour d\u00e9butants)\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Le Parc National de la Vanoise, en Savoie a \u00e9t\u00e9 le premier du genre \u00e0 \u00eatre cr\u00e9\u00e9 en France en 1963. D\u00e9couvrez notre guide pour d\u00e9butants.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/vanoise-national-park-guide\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Chalet Alouette\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2022-02-13T12:02:35+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-08-08T14:05:25+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/mountain-g8c02ac7c2_640.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"640\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"425\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Chalet Alouette\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Chalet Alouette\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Estimated reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"10 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Chalet Alouette\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#\/schema\/person\/fd742f4e6b28a42b50e7f1f57bdf5638\"},\"headline\":\"Guide du Parc National de la Vanoise (pour d\u00e9butants)\",\"datePublished\":\"2022-02-13T12:02:35+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-08-08T14:05:25+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/\"},\"wordCount\":1753,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/mountain-g8c02ac7c2_640.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Les alentours\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/\",\"name\":\"Parc national de la Vanoise : guide d\u00e9butant, randonn\u00e9es, acc\u00e8s\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/mountain-g8c02ac7c2_640.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2022-02-13T12:02:35+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-08-08T14:05:25+00:00\",\"description\":\"Le Parc National de la Vanoise, en Savoie a \u00e9t\u00e9 le premier du genre \u00e0 \u00eatre cr\u00e9\u00e9 en France en 1963. D\u00e9couvrez notre guide pour d\u00e9butants.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/mountain-g8c02ac7c2_640.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/mountain-g8c02ac7c2_640.jpg\",\"width\":640,\"height\":425,\"caption\":\"Le Parc National de la Vanoise, un lieu splendide ouvert toute l'ann\u00e9e\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Accueil\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Guide du Parc National de la Vanoise (pour d\u00e9butants)\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/\",\"name\":\"Chalet Alouette\",\"description\":\"Chalet de charme 12 personnes \u00e0 La Plagne Champagny\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Chalet Alouette\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/logo-chalet-1.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/logo-chalet-1.png\",\"width\":1054,\"height\":180,\"caption\":\"Chalet Alouette\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#\/schema\/person\/fd742f4e6b28a42b50e7f1f57bdf5638\",\"name\":\"Chalet Alouette\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/64475629fe28b9e9fe7a6cf35c76e1a850af5091e864b4be58c5113aea2087e5?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/64475629fe28b9e9fe7a6cf35c76e1a850af5091e864b4be58c5113aea2087e5?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Chalet Alouette\"},\"url\":\"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/author\/chaletalouette\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Vanoise National Park: beginner's guide, hiking, access","description":"The Vanoise National Park, in Savoie, was the first of its kind to be created in France in 1963. Discover our beginner's guide.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/vanoise-national-park-guide\/","og_locale":"en_GB","og_type":"article","og_title":"Guide du Parc National de la Vanoise (pour d\u00e9butants)","og_description":"Le Parc National de la Vanoise, en Savoie a \u00e9t\u00e9 le premier du genre \u00e0 \u00eatre cr\u00e9\u00e9 en France en 1963. D\u00e9couvrez notre guide pour d\u00e9butants.","og_url":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/vanoise-national-park-guide\/","og_site_name":"Chalet Alouette","article_published_time":"2022-02-13T12:02:35+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-08-08T14:05:25+00:00","og_image":[{"width":640,"height":425,"url":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/mountain-g8c02ac7c2_640.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Chalet Alouette","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Chalet Alouette","Estimated reading time":"10 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/"},"author":{"name":"Chalet Alouette","@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#\/schema\/person\/fd742f4e6b28a42b50e7f1f57bdf5638"},"headline":"Guide du Parc National de la Vanoise (pour d\u00e9butants)","datePublished":"2022-02-13T12:02:35+00:00","dateModified":"2026-08-08T14:05:25+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/"},"wordCount":1753,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/mountain-g8c02ac7c2_640.jpg","articleSection":["Les alentours"],"inLanguage":"en-GB","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/","url":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/","name":"Vanoise National Park: beginner's guide, hiking, access","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/mountain-g8c02ac7c2_640.jpg","datePublished":"2022-02-13T12:02:35+00:00","dateModified":"2026-08-08T14:05:25+00:00","description":"The Vanoise National Park, in Savoie, was the first of its kind to be created in France in 1963. Discover our beginner's guide.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-GB","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-GB","@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/mountain-g8c02ac7c2_640.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/mountain-g8c02ac7c2_640.jpg","width":640,"height":425,"caption":"Le Parc National de la Vanoise, un lieu splendide ouvert toute l'ann\u00e9e"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/guide-parc-national-vanoise\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Accueil","item":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Guide du Parc National de la Vanoise (pour d\u00e9butants)"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#website","url":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/","name":"Chalet Alouette","description":"Charming chalet for 12 people in La Plagne Champagny","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#organization","name":"Chalet Alouette","url":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-GB","@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/logo-chalet-1.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/logo-chalet-1.png","width":1054,"height":180,"caption":"Chalet Alouette"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#\/schema\/person\/fd742f4e6b28a42b50e7f1f57bdf5638","name":"Chalet Alouette","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-GB","@id":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/64475629fe28b9e9fe7a6cf35c76e1a850af5091e864b4be58c5113aea2087e5?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/64475629fe28b9e9fe7a6cf35c76e1a850af5091e864b4be58c5113aea2087e5?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Chalet Alouette"},"url":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/author\/chaletalouette\/"}]}},"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/mountain-g8c02ac7c2_640.jpg","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/273","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=273"}],"version-history":[{"count":23,"href":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/273\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1895,"href":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/273\/revisions\/1895"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/305"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=273"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=273"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/chalet-alouette.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=273"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
The National Park of the<\/a>http:\/\/www.vanoise-parcnational.fr\/fr<\/a>Vanoise<\/a> is located in the Savoie department, part of the Auvergne-Rh\u00f4ne-Alpes region. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It is surrounded by two valleys: the Tarentaise to the North and the Maurienne to the South.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The idea of creating a National Park in Vanoise dates back to 1943 under the impetus of the French Alpine Club, the Touring Club of France and hunters. . <\/p>\n\n\n\n These groups expressed their concern about the gradual disappearance of the ibex. . <\/p>\n\n\n\n Many hesitated regarding the creation of such a protected area. There were various reasons for this, both political and economic. Others were reluctant to have parts of their own territories included in the park. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This led to the creation of two distinct zones: <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Vanoise National Park was officially created in 1963 and thus became the first National Park in France. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The two parks have been twinned since 1972. Together they cover an area of 1,250 km2, representing the largest protected area in Western Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ideally located in the heart of the French Alps, between the Maurienne and Tarentaise valleys, the Vanoise massif includes: 107 peaks over 3,000 meters high, and about twenty glaciers that feed many powerful rivers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The most famous peaks are: <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Prealps and the Belledonne massif protect the Vanoise massif. Consequently, the region generally enjoys a sunny summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, the winters are unsurprisingly harsh, with an arctic climate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The National Park is committed to protecting the landscapes, sites and biological diversity of the Vanoise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n His challenge is to reconcile the protection of his territory while allowing people to visit this incredible place. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In order to find a good balance, he works with three main objectives: <\/p>\n\n\n\n A team of 35 rangers ensures that visitors comply with the park's rules. This team has the authority to issue fines for any violations. However, far from simply being the park's enforcers, they are often the ones who lead guided walks with visitors, sharing their knowledge and passion for the area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A National Park is a natural area, open to all, but subject to a strict code of conduct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To avoid fines (ranging from 12 to 150 euros) for violating the Park Regulations, it is best to follow the rules carefully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The circulation of motor vehicles, fishing and the gathering of plants are strictly prohibited, while dogs are not allowed as they may disturb the wildlife.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are patient enough to observe the wildlife, you will see that the Park has a rich and varied fauna.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Observing an ibex is undoubtedly the most rewarding experience, as the alpine animal almost disappeared from the French Alps about fifty years ago. <\/p>\n\n\n\n From 40 individuals in 1963, the ibex population has multiplied to over 2,000 today. They represent the largest ibex population in France. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The challenge was met and the ibex became the emblem of the Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The other alpine animal is the chamois, whose numbers fell to 400 in 1963. Today, there are more than 5,500! <\/p>\n\n\n\n It has become easier to see them while walking in the Park. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Like the chamois and the ibex, the little marmot is an emblematic animal of the Vanoise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While in Alsace people might be looking for a stork nesting atop a chimney, in Vanoise they'll only be satisfied with the sight of the cute little rodent. The marmot is easily spotted when people are quiet for a while. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The shrill cry of the marmot is the signal of their presence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The small animal is not bothered by the thousands of skiers in the peripheral area because it hibernates under the snow for 6 months from October to March.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The marmot has truly established itself in Vanoise, occupying all areas: sunny grassy slopes and rocky areas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The region is most famous for its cheese, made from the milk of the famous Tarentaise cows. . <\/p>\n\n\n\n The complex flavor of Beaufort cheese, for example, is due to several conditions involving this breed of cow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the most colorful images you can have of the Vanoise in summer is that of the high pastures covered with alpine flowers. . <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Vanoise region boasts an impressive floral landscape with over 1,200 different plant varieties. June is the best month to visit Vanoise National Park, as a multitude of flowers in every color stand out against the shimmering mountain peaks. For seeing the high-altitude flora, July and August are the best months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Many species are protected even outside the boundaries of the National Park. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A good thing to do is to bring along a book describing the flowers and their pictures when hiking in the area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In Vanoise, you will find different vegetation depending on the altitude.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Outside the boundaries of the national park, there is a wide range of ski and summer resorts to explore, as well as picturesque alpine villages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Vanoise region is surrounded by some of the best ski resorts in the world: <\/p>\n\n\n\n There are also beautiful villages to see, some with superb Baroque churches: <\/p>\n\n\n\n It is best to research what you want to do before booking your stay to ensure that everything is nearby - or it is highly recommended to rent a car. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You will find many hiking trails near Val d'Is\u00e8re, while Tignes includes many activities and is an excellent place for mountain biking. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Both are also top-notch ski resorts! <\/p>\n\n\n\n Fortunately, Val d'Is\u00e8re and Tignes are practically next door to each other, making them easy to explore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Scattered throughout the Vanoise National Park, at high altitudes, you will find welcoming mountain huts, which will allow you to relax after your hikes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n There is the Fond d'Aussois refuge on the Col d'Aussois and Pointe de l'Observatoire hike and the Lac Blanc refuge on the Lac Blanc de Termignon hike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are travelling to Vanoise National Park by plane, the two closest main airports are Geneva (GVA) and Lyon (LYS), and it takes about two to three hours to get to Val d'Is\u00e8re. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You could consider taking a train or bus from Lyon or Geneva, but it is probably better to rent a car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Another option is the small Chamb\u00e9ry International Airport (CMF), which may be a little more expensive than other airports. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n When it comes to holidays in national parks, Vanoise National Park is a fantastic place to get out and explore the backcountry of France, away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds that flock to Paris, Nice and other cities in this amazing country!<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Enjoy\u00a0summer holidays in the mountains<\/strong>\u00a0by booking your next stay at Chalet Alouette<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n RESERVE<\/a>R<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n What do you think?<\/p>\n\n\n\n You are welcome to leave a comment below.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" The Vanoise National Park, in Savoie, was the first of its kind to be created in France in 1963. Discover our beginner's guide.<\/p>","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":305,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[20],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-273","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-les-alentours"],"yoast_head":"\nFacts and figures about the national park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
History of the Vanoise National Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Natural environment and climate in the Vanoise National Park<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
The role of the national park in the community<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Wildlife in Vanoise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Ibex<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Chamois <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Marmot<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Tarentaise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Flora in Vanoise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The best sites to see in the peripheral zone of the national park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Ski resorts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Small towns, villages and Baroque churches<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n
Places to stay in the Vanoise National Park <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How to get to Vanoise National Park <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n