Parc Argonne Découverte: exploring nature

publié le 15/01/2019 dans Tourism

The Parc Argonne Découverte sits at the edge of French Ardennes forest, near Vouziers (in South Ardennes). It makes use of educational and play activities to bring visitors and nature and wildlife lovers up close to animals.

It is the second most visited paid for destination in the department (42,000 visitors in 2017) and it offers the opportunity to observe a wide range of (mostly nocturnal) animals in their natural habitat. Following last year’s new additions, the raccoons, the park has welcomed an even more exotic species: parrots. Different birds, including birds of prey, live together in huge aviaries that line the walkways. Others take part in live interactive shows for members of the public. Wolves have lived in the park for the past few years and the main attraction is the pack feeding each afternoon.

Parc Argonne Découverte has five entertainment areas including a 600 m² nocturnal house to watch animals at night and a 3D cinema. Then, to keep thrill-seeking children and adults entertained there is also 2,000m² of ropes hanging between trees so that you can become fully immersed in nature.

Parc Argonne Découverte also takes part in animal protection and conservation projects. The care centre looks after injured and weak wild animals. In 2017, 72 animals were taken into care, 41 of which were then released back into their natural habitat. Visitors can book a special morning session in which they can spend time with the park animals as they go about their day.

Nature sites are still the most popular attraction for tourists - and the Parc Argonne Découverte is first among these. Meanwhile museum visits increased by 15% between 2016 and 2017. Tourist activity continues to develop in the Ardennes’ natural and cultural heritage sectors which are worth exploring.

By Ardennes Développement, the Ardennes economic development agency - ardennes-developpement.com