Réserve de bisons d'Europe de Sainte-Eulalie

The Réserve de bisons d'Europe sits near the village of Sainte-Eulalie, in the heart of the Margeride massif in the Lozère department of southern France. Spread across more than 200 hectares of open, mountainous terrain, the reserve lets European bison roam in conditions that closely mirror their natural habitat.

What animals live in the reserve?

The star of the reserve is the European bison (bison bonasus), a species that was reintroduced to the Margeride after having nearly vanished from the wild during the 20th century due to hunting and habitat loss. Alongside the European bison, the reserve is also home to American bison, giving visitors the rare chance to observe and compare both species in a single visit. The animals move freely across wide pastures and woodland, in an environment designed to resemble their original range as closely as possible.

How can visitors explore the reserve?

The signature way to see the herds is a guided horse-drawn carriage ride, which brings visitors close to the bison without disturbing them. In winter, when snow conditions allow, the reserve also runs sleigh rides — a distinctive experience rarely found elsewhere in the region. Both options have limited capacity (carriages seat up to 6 or 13 people, sleighs up to 5), so booking ahead is strongly recommended.

For those who prefer to explore on foot, a walking trail runs alongside the enclosures, offering views of both European bison and American bison at a safe distance and at your own pace.

What else is there to see and do?

The site includes a museum area tracing the history of the bison from prehistoric times, when the species ranged widely across Europe, through to today's conservation and reintroduction programs. The exhibits cover both the animals' biology and the efforts behind rebuilding their population.

After the visit, a restaurant and snack bar on site offer a place to rest. The reserve also organizes tailored visits for groups of more than 15 people, as well as birthday parties for children aged 3 to 11, which include a guided visit plus a snack and drink.

Who should visit?

The reserve is particularly well suited to families with children and to nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Getting close to the European bison — a species that has become a symbol of European wildlife conservation — against the backdrop of the Margeride's high-altitude landscapes makes for a visit that blends outdoor recreation with genuine natural history. Its location in Lozère makes it a strong addition to a longer stay in this part of Occitanie.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can visitors get close to the bison? Yes, the guided horse-drawn carriage ride brings visitors near the herds of European and American bison without disturbing the animals.

Should I book in advance? Yes, seats on the carriage and sleigh rides are limited (up to 13 and 5 people respectively), so advance booking is recommended.

Is the reserve suitable for children? Yes, the reserve offers birthday packages for children aged 3 to 11 with a snack included, and the walking trail lets families explore at their own pace.

Can the reserve be visited in winter? Yes, when snow conditions permit, sleigh rides are available during the winter season, offering an experience not possible at other times of year.