Nestled at 1,500 meters altitude, facing the majestic Mont Blanc, the Merlet animal park is once again welcoming visitors and nature lovers for a new season, from May 1st to September 30th, 2026. This site, renowned for its total immersion in alpine wildlife, promises an unforgettable experience for all who cross its gates.
Reopening and visiting arrangements
Since May 1st, 2026, the Merlet park has reopened its trails, inviting young and old alike to observe in freedom ibex, chamois, marmots, mouflons, fallow deer, sika deer, llamas, and many other emblematic Alpine species.
Online reservation is now mandatory to limit crowds and preserve the tranquility of the site and its four-legged inhabitants. Reservations can be made up to the same day, subject to availability.
Opening hours 2026
- May, June, September: open every day except Monday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Also open on public holidays.
- July and August: open every day, from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Address: 2495 Chemin de Merlet, 74310 Les Houches.
Entrance fees
- Adult (from 16 years old): €9
- Child (4 to 15 years old): €6
- Under 4 years old: free
- Reduced rate: groups (from 15 people on reservation), persons with disabilities, hikers arriving on foot or by bike from the valley
Note: 15% of the ticket price is dedicated to funding the year 2027, during which the park will be exceptionally closed for the rehabilitation of its meadows.
A journey at the heart of the mountain
Upon arrival, a short walk of 10 to 30 minutes from the parking lots allows you to rise above the Chamonix valley, offering breathtaking views of the peaks. Two marked trails are offered:
- The easy route (about 1 hour): suitable for all-terrain strollers, it allows discovering most of the animals without too much effort.
- The “fit” route: for the more curious, it invites exploring every corner of the park and fully immersing oneself in the alpine pasture.
Services and activities
- Catering: a panoramic restaurant and a picnic area at the park entrance allow for a tasty break, with a view of Mont Blanc.
- Free activities: every afternoon in July and August, fun and educational workshops are offered to better understand the secrets of the mountain and its inhabitants.
- Sensory trail: new in 2026, “The secret atmospheres of Merlet”, an immersive 5-minute trail to awaken all the senses.
- Exhibition rooms and video screenings: to deepen knowledge or take shelter in case of rain.
Accessibility and sustainable commitment
The park is not fully wheelchair accessible, but some adaptations allow access to certain areas. Domestic animals and drones are prohibited to preserve the serenity of the wildlife.
Committed to an eco-responsible approach, the park produces its electricity locally, practices selective sorting, and encourages zero waste. A shuttle operates in high season from Les Houches station to limit car use.
Practical information
- Mandatory reservation on the official website: www.parcdemerlet.com
- Phone: 04 50 53 47 89
- Limited parking: 150 spaces spread over four parking lots, expect a walk to access the park.
- Accepted payment methods: credit card, cash, checks, holiday vouchers.
Context and outlook
The Merlet animal park attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to admire alpine wildlife in an exceptional natural setting. The year 2027 will mark a pause in this adventure, as the park dedicates an entire season to rehabilitating its meadows and preserving its unique ecosystem.
For this 2026 season, Merlet promises an enchanted interlude, between discovery, wonder, and commitment to nature.
