5-Hour Walking Safari

5 HOURS OF IMMERSION IN THE RESERVE

THE EXPERIENCE

Discover a rare experience in France, at the heart of the country’s only natural reserve where European megafauna can be observed roaming freely in their natural habitat.
Here, there are no enclosures, no fences, no bars. Accompanied by a passionate naturalist guide, you will follow little-frequented trails through the highlands of the Reserve, observing its flora and iconic wildlife: European bison, Przewalski’s horses, red deer, fallow deer, elk, wild boar… all living freely across more than 700 hectares of protected land.

Between you and them: around twenty metres of open nature — and a unique feeling of freedom.

Here, humans are not the masters of the land, but discreet guests. Walking becomes a humble, respectful act — a way of entering into relationship with nature without disturbing it.
Your guide will share the keys to understanding living ecosystems, their balance, their fragility, and the concrete commitments made by the Reserve to protect this wild heritage.

An authentic, educational and deeply sensory adventure, for those who wish to experience nature differently: through observation, listening and wonder.

 

Included in the experience:

A picnic lunch is provided, prepared by the chef of our restaurant LE TAKHI.
(Please let us know of any allergies or dietary requirements.)


Good to know

  • Even when the weather is not at its best, safaris take place in all conditions.
    Walking in the rain, listening to the rustle of damp foliage, watching animals move through the mist — this too is part of the magic of the experience.There is no need to cancel your visit: unless weather conditions pose a safety risk, outings are maintained.
    So pull on your boots, your finest poncho, and let yourself be surprised by the raw beauty of a living, breathing wilderness — even under the rain!

INFOS PRATIQUES

Les horaires disponibles pour cette activité sont indiqués lorsque vous choisissez votre date sur le calendrier.
En vert : disponible, en bleu : peu de places restantes, en rouge : indisponible


→ Les enfants de moins de 12 ans ne sont pas autorisés à faire cette activité.
Ce safari est accessible uniquement aux personnes en bonne forme physique. C’est une véritable randonnée. Prévoir les sacs à dos pour porter son repas et gourde!


Respect du monde sauvage:
Afin de prévenir tout risque de transmission de maladies contagieuses pour les animaux de La Réserve (brucellose, maladie d’Aujeszky, échinococcose…), les pique-niques et les animaux domestiques ne sont pas autorisés sur le site.
Il n’est donc pas permis d’apporter des aliments ou boissons depuis l’extérieur.


Piscine naturelle:
Réservée aux clients hébergés à La Réserve, la piscine naturelle est accessible de juin à septembre, chaque jour de 16h00 à 19h00.
→ Son eau, naturellement filtrée grâce à la présence de plancton, ne contient aucun produit chimique. Pour préserver cet équilibre, les crèmes et huiles solaires sont strictement interdites.
→ Baignade non surveillée : les enfants doivent impérativement être accompagnés d’un adulte.

Available dates:

Click on the desired date

  • Caption:
  • Available
  • Full or exceptionally closed

What they have to say
about our experiences

Joan Dulera

Sun. 25 August 2024

A unique experience that our family did yesterday at the Reserve des Monts-Azur. We've seen the wild european buffalos, the deers and the wild horses that originated in Mongolia. This reserve is a 700 hectares with free wild animals roaming around the place without human help. They co-exist in this habitat. I was amazed to see them sooo close! It's a different experience than seeing animals on captivity. I recommend for families visiting this place:-)

Angelique Amable

Wed. 10 July 2024

Not far from the city, nice drive!
If you’re gonna take a carriage, you can see the animals closer and there’s no need to wear sneakers if you’re not gonna do the promenade.
Carriage: 1 hour
Walking: 1.5-2hrs

Kirill Abikus

Sun. 23 June 2024

This is a great mini safari in the mountains! You can see horses and bisons in the wild. Walking tours or in the carriage. Very beautiful nature and nice staff.
Please note that it is usually cold in the mountains so dress appropriately (long sleeves and trousers are recommended).
You can have a very good lunch at moderate price in the restaurant. Book in advance.
Nice boutique with souvenirs.
Children liked the tour very much.
We did not stay for the night.

Schas Mien

Mon. 20 May 2024

Very beautiful reserve with stunning views. You can observe the animals in peace. Don't forget the binoculars! The crepes were very delicious.
Attention for non-French speakers: we had asked before booking if an English-speaking tour guide is available and this was not a problem. Unfortunately, on-site this was limited to just a few sentences and we understood almost nothing. That was very unfortunate!

Joanne Storey

Wed. 23 August 2023

Where do i start... Amazing place, the guide was very knowledgeable and friendly, great fun and spoke excellent English! We booked private carriage tour for our family. We loved seeing all the animals and learning a lot. We went to the restaurant for lunch, they had a great selection including children's menu. The food was beautiful and plentiful. I would highly recommend this place to anyone local or tourists! Thank you

See all reviews

Frequently asked questions

Do you have another question? Contact us at contact@haut-thorenc.com

The ecolodges are not heated. For your comfort, we make them available only during the summer season, from May 17 to October 15. Outside these dates, you can enjoy our other accommodations: Le Petit Manoir and Villa Bioclimatique.

Yes, of course! Children of all ages are welcome at La Réserve. Only guided walking safaris and our Lodges are not available for children under 5, for insurance reasons.
The Brame and Privilège stays can be enjoyed by families with young children, but only if the safaris are fully privatized.

For your safety, but also for health reasons, pets are not allowed.

We strongly advise you to book your safari or stay in advance.

No, our restaurant will be delighted to welcome you for lunch and dinner.

Here's all the information you need to get to La Réserve des Monts d'Azur :

  • 651 route des châteaux
    06750 THORENC
  • GPS coordinates:
    43°48'20 " N - 6°50'43 " E
    43.8049886,6.8431416
    GoogleMaps

We can be reached on the following telephone numbers:

Please note, annual closure from November 6 to December 1, 2023.