Parc de Merlet
Alpine wildlife park in Chamonix with free-roaming animals and breathtaking Mont Blanc views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, active animals
Parc de Merlet
Best Time
Fewer crowds, active animals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Alpine wildlife park in Chamonix with free-roaming animals and breathtaking Mont Blanc views.
"Absolutely wonderful place! I would recommend to enjoy it without a rush. Lovely animals. And the views are stunning!"
🚗 Park Smartly
Drive to the highest car park (P1) to shorten the uphill walk to the entrance.
🎟️ Book Ahead
Reserve your tickets online before visiting; payment is made upon arrival.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Free-Roaming Wildlife
Throughout the park
Encounter ibex, chamois, deer, marmots, and more in their natural habitat. Keep a respectful distance!
+2
Stunning Mont Blanc Views
Various viewpoints
Breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Mont Blanc massif and the Chamonix valley.
+1
Family-Friendly Hiking
Park trails
Gentle trails suitable for families, offering an engaging nature experience for children.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Park Access & Parking
Best Time to Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Smartly
Drive to the highest car park (P1) to shorten the uphill walk to the entrance.
🎟️ Book Ahead
Reserve your tickets online before visiting; payment is made upon arrival.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Expect uphill walking and uneven terrain; good walking shoes are essential.
📸 Respect Wildlife
Maintain a minimum distance of 10 meters from animals; no feeding allowed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Smartly
Drive to the highest car park (P1) to shorten the uphill walk to the entrance.
🎟️ Book Ahead
Reserve your tickets online before visiting; payment is made upon arrival.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Expect uphill walking and uneven terrain; good walking shoes are essential.
📸 Respect Wildlife
Maintain a minimum distance of 10 meters from animals; no feeding allowed.
🎒 Pack Snacks
While there's a cafe, seating can be limited and prices high.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Parc de Merlet is highly praised for its beautiful mountain scenery and the unique experience of seeing animals roam freely in their natural habitat. Visitors love the stunning views of Mont Blanc and the opportunity for family-friendly walks. Some find the number of animals limited and the amenities basic, with a few noting the entry fee might be high for what's offered.
"One of the best activities in the area! I really enjoyed the hiking trail, and the animals are absolutely beautiful. If you’re an animal lover, you’ll definitely enjoy it. It’s also very kid-friendly. 💙
Note: It’s best to drive all the way to P1, as the hike to the entrance is quite long."
yusa zayn
"Really lovely place to walk around and see the animals, we didn't see everything but we did see Marmots which my children were very happy about. There are a few places to park but it's quite a walk from the car parks up the hill to the entrance - try and park as close as you can, don't stop at the first place you see.
When we visited in the afternoon, we drove as far as we could up the road and found a spot in the top car park - if we had taken the first slot we saw, we would have over 1km to walk up which, with 2 small children, would have been painful.
You need to reserve online before going - you pay when you get there ,
The views of the surrounding area are fantastic.
There's a cafe and gift shop, all over priced as you'd expect..."
Richard Freeman
"Really super day, but we are keen walkers and wildlife watchers. Daughter loved seeing the animals in their natural habitat. The only thing I would say is that it isn't very clear that the bus doesn't run on a weekend and it is a strenuous walk up to the park from Les Houches."
wanderinggecko
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Parc de Merlet is by car. Drive towards Les Houches and follow signs for the park. Aim for the highest car park (P1) to minimize the uphill walk. If using public transport, the bus from Chamonix to Les Houches is an option, but note that it doesn't run on weekends, and the walk from Les Houches village to the park is strenuous.
Yes, there are several parking areas. It's highly recommended to drive as far up the road as possible to reach the top car park (P1). This significantly reduces the length and steepness of the walk to the park entrance.
The walk to the entrance can be quite steep and long, especially if you park at lower levels. Driving to the top car park (P1) makes the walk much more manageable, but it's still an uphill climb.
You can take a bus to Les Houches, but the bus service to the park itself is limited and does not operate on weekends. From Les Houches, it's a significant uphill walk to the park.
The trails are generally suitable for strollers, but some sections can be steep and uneven. Driving to the highest car park will make the approach to the entrance more accessible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, it is recommended to reserve your tickets online before your visit. Payment is typically made upon arrival at the park.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Parc de Merlet website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and dates.
Ticket prices can vary. While some reviews suggest it might be pricey for the number of animals, others find the views and experience worth the fee. Check the official website for current admission prices.
Information on discounts for children, seniors, or families is usually available on the park's official website. It's worth checking for any special offers.
Generally, pets are not allowed in wildlife parks to protect the animals. It's advisable to confirm the park's policy on pets before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Parc de Merlet is home to eight species that roam freely, including ibex, chamois, sika deer, lamas, mouflons, marmots, and ibex.
No, the animals at Parc de Merlet roam freely in their natural habitat within the park's open pastures and forests. Visitors are asked to maintain a respectful distance.
The best way to explore is by following the marked trails. Take your time to observe the animals in their environment and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.
Yes, Parc de Merlet is very kid-friendly. Children often enjoy seeing the animals up close (from a distance) and the relatively easy hiking trails.
The views are spectacular! Perched at 1500m altitude, the park offers exceptional panoramic views of the Mont Blanc massif and the surrounding Chamonix valley. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe and a gift shop on-site. However, some visitors have noted that prices can be a bit high.
While there is a cafe, some visitors have mentioned a lack of convenient seating for picnics. Bringing your own snacks is a good idea, especially for families.
The cafe typically offers snacks, drinks, and light meals. It's a good place to grab a refreshment during your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Anywhere with a clear view of the animals against the backdrop of the mountains! Look for open meadows and scenic viewpoints. The Mont Blanc massif provides a stunning natural frame.
The animals roam freely, so patience is key. Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful. Remember to maintain a distance and use a zoom lens if possible.
Given the potential for movement and varying light conditions, a faster shutter speed is advisable. Consider using a tripod for stability if you're aiming for sharp shots of distant wildlife.
Drone usage is typically restricted in wildlife parks and natural reserves to avoid disturbing the animals. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit smoother, drive to the highest car park (P1) to minimize the uphill walk. Bring snacks and drinks, as seating can be limited and the cafe prices are noted as high. Ensure everyone wears comfortable walking shoes, as there is an uphill climb involved.
🚶 Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
+1 The free-roaming animals add an element of surprise and discovery to the hike. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and potentially see more active wildlife. The panoramic views of Mont Blanc are a significant draw, making it a great spot for photography and simply soaking in the alpine atmosphere.
+1📸 Photographers
+1 The best light for photography is often during the early morning or late afternoon. Remember to maintain a respectful distance from the wildlife and use a zoom lens if possible to capture clear images without disturbing the animals. The varied terrain offers diverse perspectives, from close-ups of alpine fauna to sweeping mountain vistas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters at Parc de Merlet
+2Many visitors are thrilled by the close encounters, with marmots often being a particular highlight for children. The success of these encounters depends on the animals' natural behavior and the time of day. While some visitors have noted a limited number of species, the immersive experience of seeing them in such a vast, natural setting is a significant draw.
It's important to remember that these are wild animals. While they are accustomed to human presence, they should always be treated with respect. Avoid loud noises, sudden movements, and never attempt to feed them, as this can disrupt their diet and behavior.
The Scenic Hike and Views
Even with the parking advice, expect an uphill walk. This can be a moderate challenge, especially for those with young children or limited mobility. However, the reward is immense: panoramic vistas that are consistently praised as spectacular. The combination of alpine wildlife and stunning mountain scenery makes Parc de Merlet a photographer's and nature lover's paradise.
Some visitors have noted that while the views are a major draw, the park's amenities, like benches, could be improved. Nevertheless, the overall consensus is that the natural beauty and the opportunity to witness wildlife against such an epic backdrop are well worth the effort.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit