The Nature Guide to the Cévennes and Grands Causses - France

Just north of the French Mediterranean lowland lies a rugged mountain landscape of unprecedented beauty. Here, in the southernmost part of the Massif Central, the rocky heights are covered in purple heathlands and strong-scented broom brush. The slopes are covered in extensive chestnut forests, while in the deep crevices countless rivers and brooks search their way to the plains. This region is also famed for its many spectacular gorges of several hundred metres deep, where vultures circle against a background of massive stone pillars. Small, medieval villages cling to narrow ledges halfway up the steep slopes, while, higher up, vast open limestone plateaux are deserted except for the occasional sheep herd and an excessive amount of wildflowers. This is the romantic landscape of the Cévennes and Grands Causses, one of France’s most authentic regions. The Cévennes landscape, plus the wealth of flora and fauna make this a superb region for naturalists and hikers as well as for those who seek tranquillity and beautiful surroundings.
               

• Contains a full description of the landscapes and scenery of the National Park region, its mossy woodlands and sweet-smelling meadows.
• Includes a geographical and habitat overview which helps to explain the special nature of the region’s wildlife
• Deals with the history of the Cevennes countryside and how it has been fashioned into what it is today
• The flora, birds, insects, reptiles and amphibians, each have a section describing their special requirements and where they might be found.
• The main section of the book contains suggested routes for walks and cycle rides around nineteen sections of the region, including maps and special points of interest.