The most beautiful hikes to observe the fauna and flora of the Alps

A haven of unspoilt nature… At its heart, a shimmering lake, enhanced by the reflection of a house of wood and stone. Welcome to the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve, a peaceful haven nestled in Méribel.

This alpine jewel invites you to admire the mountain flora and fauna. Discover the vaste Cembro pine forest, whose majestic trees lend the place a certain grandeur. Along the way, you may come across the Linnea borealis, a rare and elegant flower that is carefully protected by the reserve. Martagon lilies, yellow gentians, edelweiss, orchids and forget-me-nots will also add colorful touches to your journey.

If you hear a whistle, it’s probably a marmot watching you! These emblematic creatures of the Savoie region can be found in large numbers around the lake and further afield on the La Plagne plateau. If you look up, you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a pair of golden eagles, which nest in the reserve. Griffon vultures and bearded vultures also regularly fly over the valley.

The water is also full of fascinating little creatures. Near ponds, marshes and small lakes, you can observe amphibians such as frogs, toads and newts. Pretty salamanders also venture into these enchanted lands.

• PSSST ! To learn more about this ecosystem, take a tour of the reserve’s visitor centre to enjoy the exhibitions and activities that will delight the whole family.

So, whether you are sporty or a leisurely type, the nature reserve in summer promises wonder and adventure. Here are two itineraries for exploring its natural riches.

Walk around Lake Tuéda

An easy walk around the magnificent Lac de Tuéda. Take advantage of the tables and benches for a picnic in the sun, or treat yourself on the terrace of the Maison de la Réserve.

⌛ 1h round trip (1.8 km) 

📍 Depart from Méribel-Mottaret  

🟢 Level : very easy

WALK AROUND LAKE TUEDA

The botanical trail (“Sentier Botanique”)

This route, with its 180-metre altitude variation, will allow you to take in a variety of natural environments (marshes, forests, etc.). The route is marked with information boards and markers, so that the wilderness of Méribel will hold no more secrets for you!

⌛ 2h round trip (2.8 km) 

📍 Depart from Méribel-Mottaret  

🔵 Level : easy 

THE BOTANICAL TRAIL

The function of nature reserves is to protect precious ecosystems, thus guaranteeing the preservation of exceptional biodiversity. To ensure this balance, certain rules apply to all visitors.

📍 Access and activities

• Hunting and fishing are strictly regulated
• Climbing is prohibited throughout the reserve.

🐕 Animals and foraging

• Dogs are allowed only on a leash up to the Plan refuge.
• It is forbidden to pick plants or minerals.

⛺ Camping and bivouacking

• Bivouacking is only permitted around the Saut refuge.
• Permanent camping is prohibited.

🚗 Driving and flying over

• All motorised vehicles are prohibited in the reserve.
• Drone flights and any overflights, motorised or otherwise, below 300 meters are prohibited.

By respecting these rules, we all contribute to the preservation of this exceptional natural environnement. 🌿

The French Alps are home to wildlife of striking beauty. If you hope to catch a glimpse of these animals in their natural habitat, patience and discretion are essential. Let’s not forget that here, we are only guests on their land.

The animal trail : easy trail to discover typical Savoie animals

If you are looking for an easy, shady hike, the Animal Trail (“Sentier des Animaux”) is for you.

This signposted trail, punctuated by a series of discovery games, immerses you in the heart of the alpine fauna in the Altiport forest. All along the way, descriptive sheets and fun activities will reveal the secrets of wildlife.

⌛ 1h30 round trip (2.8 km) 

📍 Depart from the Altiport  

🟢 Level : very easy

The Gébroulaz glacier : observe the wildlife of the French Alps

Chamois and ibex inhabit the peaks of the 3 Vallées. When you reach the Gébroulaz glacier, you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of these majestic animals, while enjoying a magnificent panorama.

For this long hike, we recommend setting aside a whole day, with a picnic. You can also choose to spend the night at the Saut refuge, and set off the next day, well rested, in search of these majestic creatures.

Getting to the Saut refuge

Walk through the Plan de Tuéda Nature Reserve, among Cembro pine forests and mountain pastures, to the Saut refuge. After a steep climb, the view is magnificent: the Lac des Fées (Fairy lake), the Vallon du Fruit and the surrounding peaks, where chamois and ibex roam free. For total immersion, extend the adventure by spending the night at the refuge, a haven of serenity at the gateway to the Vanoise National Park.

⌛4h30 (13.9km) 

📍 Depart from Méribel-Mottaret 

🔴 Level : Very difficult

THE SAUT REFUGE                   THE HIKE

The Gébroulaz glacier

A beautiful hike along the Gébroulaz glacier, starting from the Refuge du Saut and reaching the Col du Souffre, at an altitude of 2819 metres.

⌛4h 

📍 Depart from the Saut refuge 

🔴 Niveau : Très difficile

THE GEBROULAZ GLACIER