Réserve naturelle nationale de la Bailletaz, National nature reserve in Val-d'Isère, France.
Réserve naturelle nationale de la Bailletaz is a protected nature reserve in Val-d'Isère that spans 495 hectares across elevations between 2050 and 3602 meters, featuring glaciers, rocky terrain, and alpine meadows at the base of Tsanteleina. The landscape transitions between frozen peaks and open grasslands as you move through different zones.
The reserve received national nature reserve status in December 2000, replacing the former Iseran reserve to accommodate ski infrastructure expansion in the region. This reorganization balanced conservation with the area's tourism and recreation needs.
Vanoise National Park manages this reserve through a ten-year plan, involving landowners, scientists, and users in conservation decisions.
Visitors can reach the reserve by hiking on designated trails, but must follow strict rules prohibiting plant collection, hunting, camping, and motorized vehicles. Staying on marked paths and respecting protection regulations helps preserve the alpine environment for everyone.
The reserve is home to all French populations of Oval Sesleria, a rare plant found nowhere else in the country. This endemic species makes the area a critical refuge for specialized alpine vegetation.
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