Mont Mars Nature Reserve

At the head of the Pacoulla valley, in the municipality of Fontainemore, the Mont Mars nature reserve covers about 380 hectares on the border with Piedmont. It was established in 1993.

From 1,675 to 2,600 metres

The reserve climbs from 1,675 metres to the summit of Mont Mars at 2,600 metres. It has several lakes: Lei Long, Barma and Torretta. The Barma refuge stands on the shore of Lake Barma, at 2,047 metres.

Flowers and animals

Larches and broadleaf trees, rhododendrons, bilberries, gentians, arnica and lilies make up the flora. Marmots, chamois, mountain hares, black grouse and ptarmigan can be seen.

The Oropa path

The reserve is crossed by the route of the historic procession from Fontainemore to the sanctuary of Oropa, in Piedmont. The visitor centre, beside the Gressoney road, presents the area’s nature and this procession. The trails start from the Pian Coumarial car park, 11 kilometres from Fontainemore.

Address : Fontainemore (AO), Pian Coumarial car park

Telephone : +39 0125 832700

Email : info@montmars.it

Official website : www.montmars.it

Opening : trails open freely; the warmer months are best. Visitor centre beside the Gressoney regional road.

Admission : no fee indicated for the reserve.

Please check before your visit: hours and prices can change from one season to the next.

Maps: personal work by Marc Badjou.