The Merlet Animal Park is an essential part of any family visit to Chamonix in summer and in 2018 it celebrates its 50th birthday.
We also reveal below how you can visit this wonderful site in winter…
The first inhabited site in Chamonix
Believed to be the first inhabited site in the Chamonix Valley, while most of the area was still covered by glacier, the hamlet of Merlet at 1500m was originally occupied by a small community of around sixty farmers and their families.
Around 1920, Merlet became an alpine pasture, with buildings occupied only in summer, while a herd of thirty cows enjoyed the verdant fields. Their milk was turned into cheese, cream and butter by local herdsman and sold to the first tourists to stay at the ‘Balcon du Merlet’ guest house.
Park opened in 1968
However, it was only in 1968 that Philippe Cachat had the idea of creating an animal park, after having adopted a tame chamois, christened ‘Bambi.
The business has stayed in the family. Since 2003, his daughter Claire Cachat has managed the park, together with a dedicated team who take care of all the animals that live freely within the park’s boundaries.
Bambi and Philippe Cachet
Which animals can you see at the Merlet Animal Park
Animals you can expect to find at the Parc de Merlet include chamois, ibex, sika deer, fallow deer, mountain sheep and marmots.
With an area that covers over 20 hectares, the park offers amazing views from its exceptional location opposite the Mont Blanc mountain range.
50 Years of Parc de Merlet
To celebrate fifty years of Parc de Merlet, this year will see various activities and events, including a photo competition and the publication of an illustrated book retracing the history of the Merlet hamlet and the animal park.
New for 2018
As well as special events this year, the park has been upgraded with the addition of a new ‘restful area’, dedicated to relaxation and contemplation.
On the northern side the park will be expanded by 3000m² to include a rock face, the ideal terrain for chamois and ibex to explore.
Visit Parc de Merlet in winter
While the park is only open to the public from May to September, it is possible to enjoy a unique experience in nature during the winter months.
Groups of up to 8 people can enter the park, accompanied by a mountain guide. Snowshoes are required, and a reasonable level of fitness. Visits cost €35 per person, including snowshoe hire.
This is a wonderful chance to see the animals in their peaceful winter environment.
Opening Hours & Costs
The park is open from 01 May to 30 September, every day from 9.30am to 7.30pm during July and August and from 10am to 6pm (excluding Mondays) during May, June and September.
Entry costs €8 for adults and €5 for children aged 4-15 years old. Children below 4 years old are free of charge.
Find out more info on their website – www.parcdemerlet.com
For details of catered chalets and accommodation in Chamonix, please visit our website.
