ON THE DOORSTEP OF THE ALPS
THE VERCORS
From a pretty hotel base in the heart of France’s Vercors Massif, natural history specialist Naturetrek offers an 8-day exploration focussing on the region’s rich and varied fauna and flora, ranging from a small population of wolves to a stunning collection of orchids, including the spectacular Lady’s Slipper Orchid. Tour departs London 20th & 27th May & 4th July 2007.
Heading south from Lyon in south-eastern France, an awe-inspiring massif of jagged limestone looms into view. Framed perfectly by resplendent snow-capped Alps in the distance and the deep Isère valley in the foreground, the Vercors Regional Nature Park is an area of exceptional beauty. Based in La Chapelle, in the heart of the Massif, Naturetrek’s guests are within striking distance of many rich habitats including France’s largest nature reserve, and one of its oldest, the Hauts Plateaux. This wild area is home to a small, pioneering population of wolves, an extensive range of avian specialities including Griffon Vulture, Golden Eagle, Ring Ouzel, perhaps even Tengmalm’s Owl, and a dazzling display of Alpine flora. The Vercors is one of very few regions in western Europe harbouring six species of wild ungulates (hoofed mammal); Ibex, Chamois, Red Deer, Roe Deer, Mouflon and Wild Boar all occurring here. Smaller carnivores such as Fox, Badger and Pine Marten are well represented, while Mountain Hare, a relic from the Ice Age, is confined to high mountain ridges. It is perhaps the stunning flora, however, with several rare orchids present in an overall list of 64 species, for which the Vercors Massif is best known. The spectacular Lady’s Slipper Orchid is relatively common in the fir and beech forests, whilst further searches may reveal Orchis spitzelii, Toothed Orchid (Orchis tridentata) and on Naturetrek’s July tour, Ghost Orchid (Epipogium aphyllum). All provide excitement for the visiting naturalist exploring one of France’s most beautiful regions.
The tour costs £985 p/p including scheduled flights, transfers, hotel accommodation, all food and expert guiding.
