Explore the Lorraine Regional Nature Park!

One of the Grand Est's exceptional regions

The Parc naturel régional (PNR) de Lorraine is one of 6 regional nature parks in the Grand Est region. Like the other regional parks in France, these remarkable areas have been created to preserve their natural, cultural and landscape heritage. A green setting to showcase local specialities!

Lorraine has 3 different nature parks: the Parc naturel régional de Lorraine, the Parc naturel régional des Vosges du Nord and the Parc naturel régional des Ballons des Vosges. The ideal place to stay in Lorraine to experience a more environmentally-friendly way of life!

Created in 1974, the Lorraine Regional Nature Park covers an area of 2100 km². Here, Lorraine is shaped by water and history. Hillsides, wetlands, ponds and forests are just some of the natural treasures you can explore to recharge your batteries or simply to get some fresh air for a weekend or an activity in the great outdoors.

The eastern part of the Lorraine Regional Natural Park

The eastern part of the Lorraine Regional Nature Park, between the gateway towns of Château-Salins and Sarrebourg, is home to 2 major natural areas: the Seille valley, with its incredible saltwater pools, and the Pays des Étangs, home to a number of ponds and lakes. The best thing to do is to stop and take a closer look at one of these teeming environments! The Etang de Lindre, a veritable natural gem, stands out for its exceptional wetlands, which have earned it the world-renowned Ramsar label. Here you can see many birds and amphibians nesting in the unique flora. Other ponds, such as those at Mittersheim and Gondrexange, are well worth a visit for a stroll in a superb rural setting, between reed beds and forests!

The western part of the Lorraine NRP

Situated between the valleys of the Meuse and Moselle rivers, the western part of the Lorraine Regional Nature Park stretches from the gateway towns of Metz and Verdun in the north to Commercy and Toul in the south, and Pont-à-Mousson in the east. In the Côtes de Meuse, you can explore the hills dotted with vineyards and orchards, while further east, the Côtes de Moselle offer a similarly verdant welcome amid vineyards and fruit trees.
In between, the Woëvre plain unfurls its forests and wetlands, recognised as being of international interest. Visit the Etang de Lachaussée, a Ramsar-labelled regional nature reserve, or the Lac de Madine, both of which offer magnificent opportunities for hiking or birdwatching. To the very west of the park, discover the alluvial valley of the Meuse, with its precious wetlands and aquatic environments.

A hiker's paradise

The Lorraine Regional Nature Park is an ideal area for hiking. The GR 5 (Holland-Mediterranean) crosses the Regional Nature Park from north to south. From long-distance hiking routes (GRP) to more family-friendly loops (PR), there are more than 500km of waymarked paths for walkers to enjoy! As well as the many possibilities for walking, there are other nature outings, such as canoeing, kayaking and cycling, which will take you to the most beautiful sights in the countryside. Get on your two-wheeler and cycle the routes of the Meuse à vélo or the Voie Bleue!

Birdwatching

One of the Park's special features is its many wetlands, which are home to numerous species of birds. The Domaine de Lindre, Lac de Madine and Etang de Lachaussée are three benchmark areas for birdwatchers. With 7 observatories and 3 discovery trails in the heart of the major migratory corridors, the Lorraine Regional Nature Park is a Mecca for birdwatchers. Grab your binoculars and keep a low profile to make the most of nature's spectacle!

A land of remembrance

The Lorraine Regional Nature Park is also a mecca for remembrance tourism. From the Franco-Prussian War of 1870 to the World Wars, immerse yourself in history by visiting the museums and exceptional sites dedicated to the memory of these eras and events that left their mark on the region. The Butte de Montsec American Memorial, the Saint-Mihiel Salient and the exceptional Verdun Forest are just some of the sites and landscapes that bear witness to past conflicts.

Local know-how and specialities

Along the way, you'll meet many of Lorraine's craftsmen and women. Woodworkers, ceramists, glassmakers and metalworkers will be delighted to share their expertise and passion for beautiful work with you. And between 2 visits, you'll have the pleasure of sampling the local culinary specialities, from sun-drenched mirabelle plums to gourmet confectionery and tasty Lorraine quiches! You can also sample the local AOC (Moselle and Côtes de Toul) or IGP (Côtes de Meuse)* grape varieties.