Sandy Colvine recently delivered the final part of a 40-hour interpretive guide course certified by Interpret Europe to an enthusiastic and determined group of mountain and hiking guides, environmental education experts and park rangers working in the Mercantour National Park.

Heritage interpretation is still quite rare in France but the Mercantour NP is championing interpretation to offer visitors more authentic and meaningful experiences to discover its amazing but fragile alpine landscapes. As well as inspiring visitors and revealing the special stories behind natural and cultural heritage, interpretation also promotes caring and protecting the environment. The park recognises that interpretive walks are attractive to visitors but also a great way to create a ‘sense of belonging’ which complement its other efforts to foster responsible tourism and unique visitor experiences in nature.

Read the full article (in French) published by Elena Maselli Head of environmental education and learning for sustainable development in the Mercantour National Park here