Nature and landscapes
10 beautiful mountain landscapes to admire this summer
Summits, canyons, gorges and lakes… France has a wealth of grandiose landscapes that can sometimes transport you to the other side of the world. Join us on a journey of discovery of breathtaking places… A mountain landscape can be worth 1,000 words! Wonder, contemplation and daydreams are the order of the day on this page.
A mountain landscape can conjure up many different fantasies in our minds. Here’s a look at some remarkable landscapes in France’s mountain ranges!
Mountain landscapes…
Lord of the Rings” plus
The Val d’Escreins in Vars
A mountain landscape synonymous with an unspoilt haven of peace, the Val d’Escreins has been a nature reserve since 1964.
This “land in the middle” between the Vars valley and the Queyras is steeped in legend, with mystically-named peaks such as the Hand of God and the Font Sancte.
The Val d’Escreins boasts the ruins of a village that was burnt down in 1916. This valley, with its abundant flora and fauna, is a welcoming refuge for all contemplative types and gourmets.
The clearest
Lac d’Allos in Val D’Allos
This crystalline jewel of the Southern Alps, formed by melting snow and springs, is perched in the Mercantour National Park at an altitude of 2220m. A paradise for trout and arctic char, it used to delight all those who loved to taste them when net fishing was allowed.
Since 1979, the classification of the area has allowed the expansion and appearance of prestigious species. Its colour and tranquillity make it a timeless mountain landscape.
The most breathtaking
The Gorges de la Bourne in the Vercors
Located in the Vercors Regional Nature Park, between Pont-en-Royans and Villard-de-Lans/Corrençon, the natural site of the Gorges de la Bourne offers a succession of wild landscapes to anyone who takes its impressive corbelled road.
The road that winds its way through the cliffs has been awarded 3 stars in the Michelin guide.
This is also an opportunity to take a diversion to another remarkable mountain landscape: the Chorange cave.
The highest of them all
Mont Blanc in the Northern Alps
At 4808m, Mont Blanc is the highest peak in the Alps.
A mountain landscape par excellence, it is a symbol for both sports enthusiasts in search of adventure and poets looking for inspiration. Overlooking the Chamonix and Les Houches valleys, it was first climbed in 1786 by Michel Paccard and Jacques Balmat.
Since then, the Roof of Europe has attracted thousands of visitors every year.
Hello Kitty” plus
The Aiguilles d’Arves in Maurienne
An emblematic mountain in Savoie, the Aiguilles d’Arves can be seen from several mountain ranges.
Three needles overlook the Arvan valley, including the famous “Tête de chat” (Cat’s Head), making it the most animal-like mountain landscape.
The most poetic
Le Puy Mary in the Massif Central
” …. If men didn’t dance on volcanoes, I wonder where and when they would dance; the important thing is to know that you have the volcano under your feet so that you can enjoy the true pleasure of being a free man” (Jacques Perret – de Bâtons dans les roues).
These verdant expanses are spread over the remnants of millions of years of volcanic activity in Europe’s largest volcano.
The most legendary
The Col du Tourmalet in the Pyrenees
Its reputation is well established among cycling fans. In fact, it is one of the Tour de France’s most legendary passes, at the foot of the Pic du Midi.
At 2115m, it offers exceptional views over the Bastan and Gripp valleys. It’s a must when you’re on your way to the Grand Tourmalet.
The happiest
Achard Lake in Chamrousse
Marcel Achard, a French writer and author of light-hearted comedies, used to say that if you talk about your happiness, you diminish it. A perfect phrase for this lake, Achard, perfectly accessible to the whole family, in a joyful and good-humoured atmosphere, above Chamrousse.
The most epic
Roland’s Breach in the Pyrenees
According to legend, the Brèche was opened by Roland, Charlemagne’s nephew, as he tried to destroy his sword Durandal by striking it against the rock at the end of the Battle of Roncesvalles. Seeing that it didn’t break, he threw it with all his might down the valley and it slammed into a cliff at Rocamadour in the Lot department (source: Wikipedia).
A mountain landscape full of history!
The most Canadian
La Roche du Lac des Corbeaux in the Vosges
Of glacial origin, this lake nestles in the middle of the forest in the heart of the Vosges, not far from the resort of La Bresse.
Its wild aspect is reminiscent of Canadian coniferous forests, for a 100% natural immersion. The perfect mountain landscape to feel alone in the world.
