RED DEER RUT SAFARI

A 2.5-HOUR WALKING SAFARI


THE EXPERIENCE

Set out on a rare experience in France, at the heart of the only nature reserve in the country where you can get close to free-roaming European megafauna in their natural habitat.

No enclosures, no barriers! Accompanied by a passionate naturalist guide, you will follow the trails of La Réserve to observe, up close, European bison, Przewalski horses, red deer, fallow deer, wild boar… all living in complete freedom across more than 700 hectares of unspoilt nature. Between you and them: about twenty metres of wild nature and an exhilarating sense of boundless freedom.

A guided walking safari, designed for lovers of deer and wild animals, lasting 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Find yourself in the very heart of a breathtaking rut, accompanied by a guide, to experience to the full the spectacular courtship displays of the stags and hinds of La Réserve des Monts d’Azur. This safari is available during a short window of time, corresponding to the rutting season, the exact dates of which vary each year.

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

 

GOOD TO KNOW

Even when the weather is not at its finest, safaris take place in all conditions.
Walking in the rain, listening to the rustle of wet foliage, watching the 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 genuine safety risk, outings go ahead as planned.
So pull on your boots, slip on your finest poncho, and let yourself be surprised by the wild beauty of nature…even in the rain!

 

PRATICAL INFORMATION

The available time slots for this activity are displayed when you select your date on the calendar.
In green: available  – In blue: limited availability – In red: fully booked.


Children under the age of 5 are not permitted to take part in this activity.
They must join a carriage safari accompanied by their parents.

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

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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.