Cévennes National Park is a biologically rich and culturally significant protected area in southern France, popular for outdoor activities like hiking, wildlife observation, and exploring traditional villages.
Cévennes National Park spans approximately 3,300 square kilometers in the mountainous region of the Massif Central in southern France. Characterized by steep valleys, rugged plateaus, and diverse forests, it showcases a blend of Mediterranean and montane ecosystems. The park protects an extensive array of flora and fauna, including oak and chestnut forests, heathlands, and several rare species such as the mouflon and golden eagle. Established in 1970, it is the only French national park that is inhabited, with scattered small villages and farming communities maintaining centuries-old agricultural traditions. The cultural landscape includes terraced fields, stone dwellings, and chestnut groves, all shaped by human intervention alongside natural processes. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to the park for its well-marked hiking trails such as the famous Stevenson Trail (GR70), mountain biking routes, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Notable landmarks include the Mont Lozère, the highest summit in the Cévennes reaching 1,699 meters, and the deep Tarn Gorges, which provide dramatic scenery and challenging terrain. The park’s commitment to sustainable tourism and conservation ensures an engaging visitor experience that balances nature and culture. Annual events, local markets, and museums contribute to its appeal. Visitors appreciate the park’s varied landscapes from alpine-style scenery in the north to Mediterranean influences in the south. Cévennes National Park offers a unique combination of natural beauty and human heritage for a wide range of outdoor recreation and educational experiences.
Mont Lozère – the highest peak in the park offering panoramic views and diverse alpine flora
Tarn Gorges – dramatic river canyons ideal for hiking and kayaking
Stevenson Trail (GR70) – a historic long-distance hiking route following the path of Robert Louis Stevenson
Traditional Cévenol villages – showcasing authentic architecture and cultural heritage
The park’s highest summit at 1,699 meters, offering alpine meadows, heathlands, and panoramic vistas over the Cévennes and beyond.
Impressive deep river gorges carved by the Tarn River, popular for hiking, canoeing, and spotting raptors like the griffon vulture.
A historic long-distance path retracing the journey of author Robert Louis Stevenson in 1878, passing through picturesque landscapes and villages.