Welcome to the lush green forests of Morvan and the Regional Natural Park, one of the first to be created in France.
At the heart of Burgundy, halfway between Paris and Lyon, the peak of this both wild and hilly granite massif stands at an altitude of 901 metres, in Haut-Folin.
Worthy of the natural park status
There is a rich ecosystem in Morvan, with three Natura 2000 sites, and Natural Zones of Ecological Interest, Fauna and Flora (ZNIEFF), showcasing the wealth and diversity of the natural habitats in Morvan Park. One of these sites is Mont-Beuvray, featuring Bibracte, a permanent archaeological site.
But the biosphere is under threat from pollution in the waters and other dangers that could harm the species there. Therefore, to ensure the protection of the natural environment and boost economic and tourism development in the region, the Morvan Regional Natural Park was created in 1970.
Come and explore MorvanAll-round preservation initiative
Since its creation, the Park has contributed to the economic, social and cultural development of the territory, in accordance with a charter. It is responsible for safeguarding the following:
- territories, with biodiversity protection schemes and the promotion of activities that are compatible with respecting the natural environment,
- a traditional farmland that is deemed viable and harmonious development of the forest,
- ancient expertise (such as dry-stone walls).
The fauna of Morvan
The Morvan Regional Natural Park is involved in a great number of initiatives, in partnership with the Autun Natural History Society for monitoring endangered species such as Eurasian otters, bats, dragonflies, etc.
The Maison du Parc
The Regional Natural Park also provides information, and takes part in awareness campaigns and educational initiatives, through various events and at the various venues of the Maison du Parc, in Saint-Brisson.
Visitors can explore an arboretum, a herbularium inspired by medieval gardens and an educational trail that runs alongside Taureau pond, to learn all about the characteristics of the local fauna and flora. As well as the "Maison des Hommes et des Paysages" with displays about the relationship between mankind and the environment, and a shop selling local products.
Come to the Maison du ParcValues and Ecology
Part of the Morvan Regional Natural Park is used for a project to analyse the future climatic changes in the Morvan and assess the impacts they might have.
The Park is also involved in the French national label Valeurs Parc Naturel Régional which mobilises local professionals (producers, restaurant owners, accommodation professionals, artisans) and encourages them to respect the environment in their day-to-day activities.