Parc animalier de Sainte-Croix

Parc animalier de Sainte-Croix is a wildlife park in Rhodes, in the Moselle department of the Grand Est region of France, dedicated entirely to European fauna. Set within the Regional Natural Park of Lorraine, it gives visitors a distinctly forested, natural setting — animals live in large, wooded enclosures rather than the concrete pens of a conventional city zoo.

What will you see at the park?

The whole concept behind Sainte-Croix is to showcase species that live, or once lived, in Europe's forests and mountains — from large predators to birds and water-dwelling animals. The visitor route winds through several themed zones, giving the walk a natural rhythm: a stretch of forest, then open meadow, then an enclosure by a pond. For families, this makes for an engaging kind of nature education — instead of relying on information boards, the park focuses on direct, close-up viewing of animals in surroundings that closely mimic their natural habitat.

How do you get to Parc animalier de Sainte-Croix?

Rhodes sits in Moselle, in the heart of Lorraine, not far from larger regional towns such as Sarrebourg and Saint-Avold. Driving is by far the most convenient option — the park has its own visitor car park, and because it sits inside the Regional Natural Park of Lorraine, the approach roads themselves wind scenically through forests and villages. Travelers without a car will need to plan ahead; it's worth checking local bus connections or arranging onward transport from the nearest train station.

When should you visit?

The park operates seasonally, and spring and summer are the best times to go, when the animals are most active and all the walking trails are fully open. Early morning is a good choice for visitors hoping to avoid crowds and catch many species at their liveliest. In autumn, the forest surrounding the enclosures takes on rich seasonal color, making the walk just as rewarding visually.

Who is this attraction for?

This is above all a full-day family outing — the sheer size of the grounds and the focus on European wildlife mean a visit blends recreation with education. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to observe species rarely seen in the wild, such as lynx and wolves, while photographers will enjoy the close proximity to animals set against a backdrop that mirrors their natural environment.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Parc animalier de Sainte-Croix located? The park is located in Rhodes, in the Moselle department of the Grand Est region of France, within the Regional Natural Park of Lorraine.

What animals can you see at the park? The park specializes in European fauna — wild species tied to the continent's forest ecosystems, displayed in large, naturalistic enclosures.

Is the park suitable for children? Yes, it's a popular family destination — the open layout, natural enclosures, and close visual contact with animals make for an engaging visit for young children.

How much time should you plan for a visit? Given the size of the grounds and the number of themed zones, it's worth setting aside a full day, especially if you want to explore at a relaxed pace with breaks along the way.