Mercantour : International Dark Sky Reserve
Have you ever seen a real dark night? Not the one we think is black in the city, but a deep, mysterious night… a starry night. In Pra Loup, at the gateway to the Mercantour National Park, we invite you to experience one of the most beautiful celestial spectacles in Europe.
Since 2019, the Park has been classified as an International Dark Sky Reserve (RICE), a rare label that rewards the exceptional quality of the night sky and the efforts of the municipalities to limit light pollution. The result: deep blackness, rare silence, and up to 3,000 stars visible to the naked eye… A breathtaking experience.
Two zones to better preserve the sky
The core zone includes the natural areas that are already protected: the darkest, the purest.
The buffer zone is made up of 74 municipalities — including ours — committed to more sustainable lighting, respectful of living things… and sleep.
What you can experience at night in Pra Loup
- Night hikes with headlamps, or under the full moon
- Evenings of observation at La Bonette-Restefond (over 2,800 m!)
- Astronomy workshops, with enthusiasts who help you navigate among the constellations
So, the next time you come to Pra Loup, remember to stay after sunset. Forget your phone for a moment, listen carefully, look up.
Heaven has stories to tell you.
And it’s not just for the pleasure of the eyes! This newfound blackness, this essential darkness, is also a refuge for wildlife. You may come across:
- bats hunting above the meadows
- the mysterious Tengmalm’s owl, discreet and protected
- the Isabelle of France, a rare butterfly sensitive to light
Researchers are currently working to measure the positive impact of light reduction on nocturnal species. And the results look promising.
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