The park was established in 1968 by Philippe Cachat on a former mountain farm.
Animals roam in enclosures that respect their natural vertical habitats, allowing for seasonal migration within the park.
The site contains the remains of ancient stone 'mazots', traditional small barns used by mountain farmers.
The park serves as a sanctuary that helps reintroduce and monitor local fauna populations in the Haute-Savoie region.
Parc de Merlet is an animal park located on a mountain slope in Les Houches, providing unobstructed views of the Mont-Blanc massif. The reserve functions without cages, allowing animals like ibex, chamois, marmots, and fallow deer to roam in large, semi-free enclosures. It spans 21 hectares at an altitude of 1,500 meters. The terrain is a mix of forest and mountain pasture, requiring visitors to walk along marked trails. The park integrates wildlife conservation with educational observation in a natural alpine environment. Visitors can observe the animals in their native habitat rather than traditional zoo enclosures. The site is situated on a steep hillside, providing a direct vantage point over the Chamonix Valley.
The elevated viewing platforms near the upper circuit, which frame the animals with the Bossons Glacier in the background.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking footwear, as the terrain consists of steep, uneven mountain paths.
Bring binoculars to spot animals resting in the distant, rocky sections of the enclosures.
Carry a windbreaker or layers, as temperatures at this altitude can drop significantly compared to the valley floor.
Attempting to walk from the village of Les Houches on foot, as the climb is extremely steep and physically demanding for casual visitors.
Open seasonally from spring through autumn; closed during winter months due to snow conditions.
Maintain silence, do not feed the animals, stay strictly on marked paths to avoid disturbing wildlife, and keep dogs on a leash or prohibited depending on current park policy.
