Created in 1989, the Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park covers 2,800 km² across the Vosges, Alsace, Franche Comté and Lorraine. La Bresse and all the villages mentioned on this site lie within the park.
The RNP’s missions
- Protection of remarkable natural environments (peat bogs, high pastures, old forests)
- Showcasing of cultural and architectural heritage
- Economic development with respect (short supply chains, sustainable tourism)
- Awareness raising among inhabitants and visitors
The natural treasures
- Altitude pastures: unique summit grasslands, refuge for specific flora
- Peat bogs: rare environments, climate sponges, exceptional biodiversity
- Beech and fir forests, primary or little exploited
- Glacial lakes (Blanchemer, Corbeaux, Longemer, Retournemer)
- Wildlife: chamois, lynx (discreet), capercaillie, peregrine falcon
What to respect
- Dogs on leash compulsory in protected zones
- Picking limited to family use with authorised tools (hand comb for blueberries)
- No fires outside fitted fireplaces
- Bivouac only, no wild camping
- Stay on paths in sensitive zones
Park events
Several annual events: themed guided visits, high pasture festivals, heritage discovery days. Programme on the PNR official site.
Why it matters
Respecting the RNP means ensuring the lakes, ridges and forests stay as beautiful for the next generations. A responsible stay starts with knowing the rules.
Book a stay in our eco-conscious chalet right in the park’s heart.
Frequently asked questions
Is wild camping allowed in the park?
No. Only bivouac (one night, 7pm to 9am, no installation) is tolerated outside protected zones. Wild camping itself is forbidden.
Can you pick blueberries?
Yes, for family use only, with a hand comb (no industrial harvester). Picking is forbidden in certain protected zones, look for signs.
Are dogs allowed on the paths?
Yes on leash, compulsory in protected zones. Free running disturbs wildlife, especially capercaillie and chamois.
Where does the park extend?
2,800 km² across four regions: Vosges, Alsace, Franche Comté and Lorraine. It includes La Bresse, Gérardmer, the Hohneck and the high pastures.