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Nature invites you to Livradois-Forezin Auvergne
In the heart of the Auvergne region, the Livradois-Forez offers a captivating ecological diversity that attracts those in search of tranquillity and reconnection with the natural world. This area, with its varied landscapes, is a call to disconnect for all those who aspire to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in a restorative calm.
The natural heritage of the Livradois-Forez is rich and diverse, including mysterious peat bogs, wetlands rich in biodiversity and imposing rocky gorges. Contemplate the peaceful ponds, sumptuous forests and high plateaux where the wind whispers ancient stories.
These ecosystems offer a daily spectacle that can be contemplated from the doorstep or terrace of one of the many tourist accommodations or during a leisurely stroll.
Among the natural treasures of the Livradois-Forez Regional Nature Park, five sites stand out for their beauty and the unique experience they offer. Don’t miss the vast wilderness of the Hautes-Chaumes or the ancestral forest of the Comté. Looking for a bit of magic? Head to the mysterious Rez de Sol, also known as the Dragon’s Stone.
Varied biodiversitywithin each ecosystem
The mountain forests, where the fir takes refuge in the cool, damp areas, are home to rare species of moss and lycopod, as well as birds such as the Hazel Grouse and the Tegmalm’s Owl. Large mammals such as roe deer and wildcats can also be found here.
The Hautes-Chaumes, meanwhile, reveal a landscape of callune and bilberry moors and alpine meadows from an altitude of 1,200 metres. These expanses, shaped by a harsh climate, are home to plant and animalspecies similar to those found in the high mountains or northern tundras. Agropastoralism plays a key role in preserving these environments, where nature reclaims its rights in the absence of human activity.
The rivers and alluvial zones of the Livradois-Forez, from the wild torrential waters to the calmer waters of the plains, are home to exceptional aquatic and riparianbiodiversity. The River Dore, in particular, is home to precious species such as pearl mussels, otters, salmon, dippers and bank swallows, enriching the landscape with their presence.
The bocage landscape, with its mix of meadows, hedgerows, woods and waterholes, is a haven for a wide variety of flora and fauna. They provide an ideal habitat for many species of birds, frogs, insects and orchids.
Finally, the mountain peat bogs and wetlands reveal a world of plants adapted to extreme conditions, such as carnivorous sundew, butterwort, cranberry and flooded lycopod. These environments, which are essential for water regulation and biodiversity, are home to numerous springs and streams, playing a crucial role in the Livradois-Forez ecosystem.
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Nature at the service of our planetwith Jardin pour la Terre
Imagine a place where you can travel around the world without a plane, where every step takes you from one continent to another. You can cross oceans on foot, jumping from Europe to South America in just a few strides. Welcome to the Jardin pour la Terre d’Arlanc, a 6.5-hectare botanical paradise where the plant areas are designed to reproduce the continents, and the lawns are transformed into seas and oceans. This miniature planet, the brainchild of Laurence Médioni in 1997, is a sanctuary unique in Europe. It offers an educational and entertaining perspective on our environment. Spread over 6.5 hectares, the garden reveals an astonishing botanical diversity, with a stunning collection of 20,000 plant varieties.
It’s not every day you get to discover carnivorous plants, taste exotic flowers or get lost in a miniature jungle in the heart of the Auvergne. Thanks to a passionate nature guide, young and old alike can touch, smell and even taste plants from the four corners of the world, all acclimatised to thrive in our climate.
Cultural programming
With art exhibitions that change with the seasons, shows and concerts for children and adults, the garden comes alive with a rich cultural life. Guided tours enhance the experience and focus on environmental conservation. They offer visitors interactive learning opportunities based around biodiversity, observation of flora and fauna, and even the chance to pick and taste edibles. The garden is also a place for experimentation and raising environmental awareness, with practical workshops ranging from building nesting boxes to using essential oils and making homemade cosmetics. Pets, kept on a lead, are welcome. Le Jardin pour la Terre un is accessible to all, including people with disabilities. So, are you ready for the journey?
Eco-responsible guided tours in Auvergnefor young and old
You can walk anywhere in the Livradois-Forez Regional Nature Park on your own. But why not take advantage of the expertise of local guides. They’ll give you a better understanding of this unique biodiversity. These excursions are designed to fully immerse visitors. These are educational trips where discovery and learning go hand in hand with adventure. The professional guides have an in-depth knowledge of and passion for the Livradois-Forez.
Nature tours
Guided tours help you understand the complexity and fragility of local ecosystems. On a guided walk or duringdiscoveryworkshops, you’ll be introduced to the mysteries of the park’s biodiversity. The whole family can then play at naming each tree and plant they come across on their walks.
Visits and walks all year round
You can go mushroom-hunting in autumn or watch nature awaken in spring. Why not take advantage of an excursion to discover the wild orchids of the puy de Pileyre in Chauriat. Head to the Iloa base if you want to enjoy the Beavers walk in Thiers. An adventure for 4-10 year-olds accompanied by their parents. You’ll discover their strange way of life while having fun!
Are you more of a night owl?
The night-time tours,“L’heure des chouettes” at Saint-Germain-L’herm, offer a different perspective on the park, inviting visitors to listen to and experience nature under a starry sky. The discovery of night-time walking will take place gradually between dusk and night with a mountain guide.
