Réserve naturelle nationale du rocher de la Jaquette

Réserve naturelle nationale du rocher de la Jaquette is a small but remarkably rich nature reserve in the Auvergne region of France, located in the commune of Mazoires in the Puy-de-Dôme department, within the Cézallier plateau and inside the boundaries of the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park. The rocky outcrop that gives the reserve its name rises above the surrounding meadows and woodland, creating a landscape where dry, rugged cliffs contrast with the lush green of the valley below.

How was the reserve created?

The area was placed under protection in 1976, initially covering around 18 hectares. The original purpose of the reserve was to protect the Eurasian eagle-owl, a species of bird of prey that was seriously threatened in France at the time. In 2019, the reserve was significantly expanded with additional plots of exceptional ecological value, bringing its total surface area to 36.15 hectares.

What makes this reserve unique?

Although the reserve was established to protect a bird of prey, its greatest natural asset today is its extraordinary insect diversity. More than 110 butterfly species have been recorded within the Jaquette reserve — representing three-quarters of all butterfly species known in the entire Puy-de-Dôme department. Researchers have also documented 40 species of grasshoppers and locusts, along with 178 beetle species, at least 20 of which are considered bio-indicators of high-quality forest ecosystems in France, meaning their presence signals old, well-preserved woodland.

This richness stems from a mosaic of habitats packed into a relatively small area: rock faces and cliffs, dry grasslands, moorland, and patches of forest. Each of these environments attracts different species, turning the reserve into a genuine island of biodiversity amid the pastoral landscape of the Cézallier.

How can visitors explore the reserve?

Because of the fragility of its habitats and protected species, as well as the presence of grazing livestock herds during the summer months, no marked hiking trail has been established within the reserve. This doesn't mean the site is inaccessible, however — the reserve and its distinctive rock formation can be observed from the D36 departmental road, which runs along the base of the massif. This approach allows the delicate ecosystem to remain protected while still giving travelers a way to appreciate the landscape.

Where exactly is the reserve located?

The reserve lies in the heart of Auvergne, in the commune of Mazoires, in the eastern part of the Puy-de-Dôme department, on the volcanic Cézallier plateau. The region is known for its sweeping mountain pastures, its volcanic past, and its quiet, uncrowded character — an appealing destination for travelers seeking genuine, untouched Auvergne countryside.

Frequently asked questions

Can visitors enter the reserve on foot? No marked trails exist due to habitat protection and summer grazing, so visits are limited to viewing the site from the D36 road.

Why was the reserve created? It was originally established to protect the Eurasian eagle-owl, a species that was severely threatened in France at the time.

What makes this site special? Its exceptional insect diversity, particularly its butterflies and beetles that indicate healthy, mature forest ecosystems.

How large is the reserve? Following its 2019 expansion, it covers 36.15 hectares, up from the original 18 hectares designated in 1976.