Espace zoologique de Saint-Martin-la-Plaine

Espace zoologique de Saint-Martin-la-Plaine is an animal park in the village of Saint-Martin-la-Plaine, in the Loire department of France, roughly halfway between Lyon and Saint-Étienne. Founded in 1972, it was one of the country's first sites to combine a public zoo with the role of a sanctuary, taking in animals rescued from illegal trafficking, circuses, and private breeders alongside its regular collection.

Where is the park and how big is it?

The site covers around ten hectares along the corridor connecting the region's two largest cities. From Lyon, the drive takes under half an hour, which makes the park a convenient day-trip destination for visitors based in either city or the surrounding towns of the Loire valley.

What animals live there?

The park's flagship species is the western lowland gorilla, an endangered great ape kept here as a family group. Beyond the gorillas, the primate section includes chimpanzees, mandrills, macaques, mangabeys, and several species of small marmosets. A separate area houses big cats — tigers, lions, and panthers — along with lynx, reptiles, and a wide range of bird species. In total the collection spans more than a hundred species, and a notable share of the residents arrived through rescue and confiscation programs rather than standard zoo exchanges.

What does the visit route look like?

The walking trail is about two kilometres long, fully paved, and reserved for pedestrians — there are no rides or trains inside the park. Covering it at a relaxed pace, stopping at each enclosure, typically takes two to three hours. The route winds through wooded, varied terrain, which keeps the walk pleasant even on warmer days.

When is the best time to visit?

The park opens every day of the year, including public holidays, which sets it apart from many other regional attractions that close on selected weekdays. Because it also functions as a rescue centre, the animals on display can change over time: new residents arrive following interventions, while others move on after rehabilitation to natural habitats or partner facilities. That means no two visits are guaranteed to look exactly alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a visit to Espace zoologique de Saint-Martin-la-Plaine take? Walking the full two-kilometre trail at a normal pace, with stops at the enclosures, usually takes between two and three hours.

Is the park suitable for children and strollers? The trail is entirely paved and pedestrian-only, which makes it manageable with a stroller, though parts of the terrain have gentle slopes worth being aware of.

Which animal is the park's main symbol? The western lowland gorilla, displayed as a family group, is the park's best-known resident and one of its main draws for visitors.

Is the zoo open all year round? Yes, the park is open daily, including holidays, though exact opening hours vary by season, so it is worth checking before setting out.