Highlight • Forest
🦌 La Grande Jeanne Wildlife Park 🐐
Hiking
4.5
(40)
Cycling
4.6
(26)
Gravel riding
(1)
Running
5.0
(1)
The Parc Animalier de la Grande Jeanne is a unique animal park nestled within a communal forest near Annecy, France. Situated on the scenic slopes of the Semnoz mountain in the Haute-Savoie region, this natural haven offers a semi-liberty environment for local wildlife. At an elevation of approximately 707 metres, it provides a tranquil escape from the city, allowing visitors to observe fallow deer, red deer, and Corsican mouflons thriving in conditions similar to their natural habitat.
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August 13, 2020
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near 🦌 La Grande Jeanne Wildlife Park 🐐
4.5
(72)
525
hikers
12.9km
03:57
440m
440m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(17)
106
hikers
13.7km
04:10
400m
400m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(9)
75
hikers
7.08km
02:12
270m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 710 m
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Wednesday 24 June
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22 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What specific types of trails can I expect to find at Parc Animalier de la Grande Jeanne?
The park features a network of natural paths suitable for walking and exploring. While it serves as a starting point for longer hikes into the surrounding Semnoz mountain, the trails within the animal park itself are generally considered easy to moderate, designed for wildlife observation and family strolls. Educational panels are placed along these paths to enrich the experience.
How long does it typically take to walk through Parc Animalier de la Grande Jeanne?
The time required to explore the park can vary depending on your pace and how much time you spend observing the animals. A leisurely walk through the main areas, allowing for animal spotting and enjoying the forest, might take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours. If you combine it with a picnic or extend your hike into the surrounding forest, it could be longer.
Is Parc Animalier de la Grande Jeanne suitable for a winter visit, and what should I expect?
Yes, the park is open year-round, and visiting in winter offers a unique perspective. The snow-covered landscape can be beautiful, and animals like deer and mouflons may sometimes be easier to spot against the white backdrop. Be sure to dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear for potentially icy or snowy paths.
Are dogs allowed on the trails within Parc Animalier de la Grande Jeanne?
While the park is a natural environment, it is primarily an animal park designed for the semi-liberty of wild species. To ensure the well-being of the resident animals and the safety of all visitors, dogs are generally not permitted inside the animal enclosures or on the main observation paths. It's best to check local signage upon arrival for any specific regulations.
What are the best times of day to visit for wildlife spotting at Parc Animalier de la Grande Jeanne?
For the best chance of spotting the fallow deer, red deer, and Corsican mouflons, consider visiting during the quieter times of day. Early mornings or late afternoons, especially outside of peak tourist seasons, often provide more opportunities for observing the animals when they are most active and fewer people are around.
Are there any specific viewpoints or natural curiosities to look out for in the park?
Beyond the animals themselves, the park is situated on the slopes of Semnoz mountain, offering glimpses of the surrounding natural beauty. While the park's primary focus is wildlife observation, some trails extend to provide scenic views, including routes that lead to viewpoints overlooking Seynod and parts of the Annecy basin. The forest environment itself is a natural curiosity, with diverse flora.
What kind of facilities are available at Parc Animalier de la Grande Jeanne?
The park is designed as a natural, semi-wild environment. While it offers free access and educational panels, it does not feature extensive commercial facilities like cafes or restaurants directly within its boundaries. It's a great spot for a picnic, so bringing your own refreshments is recommended. Basic amenities like free parking are available.
Are there any restaurants or cafes conveniently located near Parc Animalier de la Grande Jeanne?
While the park itself doesn't have on-site dining, its proximity to Annecy means there are numerous restaurants and cafes just a short drive away. You can find a wide range of dining options in Annecy or the nearby town of Seynod to enjoy before or after your visit.
What is the typical elevation gain or difficulty level for trails within the animal park?
The trails within the Parc Animalier de la Grande Jeanne are generally considered easy to moderate, with gentle slopes as it's located on the foothills of Semnoz mountain. The elevation gain on the main paths is minimal, making it accessible for most visitors, including families with young children. More significant elevation changes would be encountered if you venture onto longer hiking trails extending beyond the park into the wider forest.
Can Parc Animalier de la Grande Jeanne accommodate visitors with limited mobility or strollers?
The park's paths are natural forest trails, which means they can be uneven in places. While many sections are relatively flat and wide enough for strollers, some areas might be more challenging due to roots, rocks, or slight inclines. It's advisable to use robust strollers designed for off-road terrain. For visitors with limited mobility, some sections may be accessible, but it's best to assess the conditions upon arrival.