This extraordinary heritage, which can be explained by the proximity of mountains to the sea, and climatic influences which are Mediterranean, alpine and continental, gives this area a great diversity which makes it unique. the varied splendour of its landscapes, wild nature, its cultural and historic wealth, made a significant contribution to the awarding of the category of "National Park" in 1979, acknowledged worldwide as the highest level of quality and protection of outstanding natural spaces From olive groves to alpine pastures, from larch forests to snowy peaks, Mercantour is home to a rare variety of fauna, flora and landscapes, unique even on a global scale. The Massif du Mercantour is the only high mountain French national park where you can find all vegetation stages. With summits of more than 3,000m, its many glacial lakes and six valleys with their own unique character, the Parc national du Mercantour is, just one hour from the sea, a unique jewel of preserved nature! Mercantour national park [ Alpes de haut provence ] Distance from Nice : 35 min by train [ Train de Pignes ]