The Esprit National Park brand: 1000 products and services to explore the national parks of France in a new way!

Inspired by nature, the Esprit National Park brand continues its development in national parks throughout France. The product and tourist services offered by local companies committed to sustainable development has crossed the symbolic threshold of 1000 products!

The Cayolle Refuge: 1000th product in the heart of Mercantour National Park

Head to the peaks of the Mercantour National Park, an area at the crossroads of a Mediterranean and Alpine influence, to discover the 1000th Esprit National Park product!  Welcome to the Cayolle Refuge, located in the municipality of Uvernet-Fours (04), at the end of a windy road leading to the eponymous pass at 2276 meters above sea level.

The  Cayolle Mountain Refuge is run by Emmanuel Oudot who took it over from his mother 3 years ago. A fine family history linked to a place which is THE gathering spot for hikers heading out to the Upper Valley of the Var, the Tinée and Ubaye Valleys and even the Upper Verdon Valley.

The refuge has been completely renovated with the support of the National Park and has become a place that now combines authenticity, simplicity and comfort. Emmanuel Oudot offers a warm welcome and shares his passion for the area with hikers and visiting tourists alike.

Emmanuel Oudot is very involved in ecotourism and gives pride in offering local cuisine while raising awareness regarding a responsible consumption of water and energy. The refuge functions completely independently. He also advises visitors on the eco-friendly behaviours to be adopted in order to fully take advantage of the unspoilt nature, such as rules for observing the fauna and the flora, and the great-quality starry skies. All these criteria for providing a responsible mountain experience and values shared with the National Park have allowed the granting of the Esprit National Park-Mercantour brand:

“I grew up here and was raised in natural surroundings: The National Park is an integral part of my background. Given my role in the area, since I’m the refuge keeper, I’m involved in its conservation and that’s really rewarding. My practices are in line with the Esprit National Park values”, says Emmanual Oudot.

Change your perception of landscapes, local areas and travelling

The 545 beneficiaries of the Esprit National Park brand, in mainland France and overseas, provide consumers and visitors with the guarantee of responsible purchases based on the local origin of their products, environmental friendliness and the shared values of National Parks. The men and women who convey their passion and know-how contribute to the unique character of the Esprit National Park.

Launched in 2015 by the National Parks of France, Esprit National Park is now connected to the French Biodiversity Agency.

For a unique experience and to get closer to nature during time spent on a sea trip, a hike or buying local products, Esprit National Park also invites you to check out the new national guidebook "Inspirations 2020". An array of products, outings and holidays to change your perception of the landscapes, territories and travelling, and to take full advantage of your coming vacation in the National Parks of France.

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