Animal parks and zoos

To make the most of these species, their habitat is recreated as faithfully as possible. From the fauverie at the top of Mont Faron to the Ginasservis animal park - dedicated to the rescue of domestic animals - and the Village des Tortues in the Coeur du Var, these places offer 100% natural immersion with activities for all the family.

Our destination is home to a variety of species (domestic, wild or tropical), some of which are sanctuaries for rare species that you can come and meet: educational farms, zoos or animal parks that double up as botanical gardens. The furry, feathered or scaly companions housed there all have a unique story to tell and are waiting for visitors to come and see them. Some even open their doors to you for care, meals or training.

They have chosen the path of preservation and well-being. Whether it's a refuge, sanctuary or breeding centre, here's a closer look at 4 places whose watchwords are the protection of our animal friends:

• Tortupôle in Carnoules: a conservation centre unique in Europe, this turtle village is home to over 1,600 specimens from all over the world, including the famous Hermann's turtle, which can be found in the forests of the Var (mainly in the Maures massif). Young visitors will particularly enjoy observing reptiles that are little-known in our landscapes. The Tortupôle also has a turtle clinic, where many years of experience have been put into caring for the animals and studying their needs to ensure that they are better cared for in captivity.
• Parc animalier de Ginasservis: dedicated to the protection and rescue of domestic animals. The park has almost 250 residents, all of whom have been rescued from mistreatment in circuses or laboratories, or adopted by the SPA and given a new life. You can also stay on site, with self-catering cottages, a hotel and a camper van park to extend the experience and make the most of the nearby Verdon Regional Nature Park.
  
  
• Zoo-fauverie du mont Faron in Toulon: founded in the late 60s, this is considered to be a centre for the conservation of endangered species of small and large cats. The site is particularly suitable for breeding, and the enclosures are ideal for observation. Over an area of more than a hectare, it is home to tigers, lions, panthers, lynxes, wolves and mongooses. Here, too, you can book times to get up close and personal with the animals, such as the carnivore snack on Sunday afternoons or the morning soigneur (for children aged 8 and over)
• Var Lamas in Six-Fours-les-Plages: a taste of South America... in the west of the Var! Another breeding centre, Var Lamas offers the chance to get up close and personal with these mammals. Brush them, walk them or simply take part in a wool workshop, these animals, already revered by the Incas, have many secrets to reveal. The aim of these activities is to familiarise you with these camelids, far from their reputation as unpredictable spitters!