It is the only limestone massif in the Ligurian Alps that presents a highly evolved karstic surface model with a dense screening of lapiaz, dolines and chasms giving its surface a fascinating characteristic lunar appearance...
The incredible Cretaceous-Jurassic natural site, with its Pointe Marguareis and foothills, locks in the upper reaches of the Réfrei valley, in the commune of Tende and the enclave of the commune of La Brigue.
The Marguareïs plateau is part of a vast Natura 2000 site on the French side, stretching from the Bendola canyon (447 m) to the summit of the Marguareïs peak (2,651 m), covering an area of 6,314 hectares. The site is home to 24 natural habitats, 7 of which are considered European priorities, such as dry orchid grasslands, scree slopes and ancient forests. The conservation of these habitats, which are rare on a European scale, is a major challenge, especially as they occupy almost the entire plateau, giving this area an exceptional character.
There are 16 species protected at European level, including six species of bat and three plant species: Bertoloni's columbine, green buxbaumia and Ligurian gentian. The site is of remarkable interest for its vascular flora, thanks to its unique geological features and the combined influence of Mediterranean, Alpine and Ligurian climates. This diversity makes the Marguareïs a true biological refuge, favoring a high level of endemism with species such as narcissus-flowered garlic and Tende sedge. The site is also home to other species protected on a European scale, covering mammals, insects, amphibians, reptiles and a particularly remarkable avifauna. All these species are listed in Annex II of the Habitats Directive, guaranteeing their protection within the Natura 2000 network. Another special feature of the site is the presence of an endemic troglobitic fauna, specific to underground environments, including rare molluscs and beetles.
Human activities on the plateau fall into three main categories: livestock farming, forest management and nature sports. Marguareïs is a popular site for hikers, 4×4 enthusiasts, motorcyclists and mountain bikers. These activities can have a significant impact on local flora and fauna, particularly when off-trail driving or damage to grasslands and other sensitive habitats occurs.
The area boasts many famous caves and chasms, including the famous speleologist Michel Siffre's experiments in the Scarassoun chasm and its fossil glacier - for experienced cavers only!
The Haute Route du Sel crosses the massif and offers Alpine scenery perched in the clouds!
The Marguareïs plateau is part of a vast Natura 2000 site on the French side, stretching from the Bendola canyon (447 m) to the summit of the Marguareïs peak (2,651 m), covering an area of 6,314 hectares. The site is home to 24 natural habitats, 7 of which are considered European priorities, such as dry orchid grasslands, scree slopes and ancient forests. The conservation of these habitats, which are rare on a European scale, is a major challenge, especially as they occupy almost the entire plateau, giving this area an exceptional character.
There are 16 species protected at European level, including six species of bat and three plant species: Bertoloni's columbine, green buxbaumia and Ligurian gentian. The site is of remarkable interest for its vascular flora, thanks to its unique geological features and the combined influence of Mediterranean, Alpine and Ligurian climates. This diversity makes the Marguareïs a true biological refuge, favoring a high level of endemism with species such as narcissus-flowered garlic and Tende sedge. The site is also home to other species protected on a European scale, covering mammals, insects, amphibians, reptiles and a particularly remarkable avifauna. All these species are listed in Annex II of the Habitats Directive, guaranteeing their protection within the Natura 2000 network. Another special feature of the site is the presence of an endemic troglobitic fauna, specific to underground environments, including rare molluscs and beetles.
Human activities on the plateau fall into three main categories: livestock farming, forest management and nature sports. Marguareïs is a popular site for hikers, 4×4 enthusiasts, motorcyclists and mountain bikers. These activities can have a significant impact on local flora and fauna, particularly when off-trail driving or damage to grasslands and other sensitive habitats occurs.
The area boasts many famous caves and chasms, including the famous speleologist Michel Siffre's experiments in the Scarassoun chasm and its fossil glacier - for experienced cavers only!
The Haute Route du Sel crosses the massif and offers Alpine scenery perched in the clouds!
Rates
Rates
Rates for the Haute Route du Sels are available by following the booking links.
Openings
Openings
From 15 June 2026 until 15 October 2026 - Open everyday
Subject to favorable weather
Subject to snow conditions
Location
Location
Spoken languages
Spoken languages
Environment
Environment
- Mountain view
- Mountain location
- High mountain
- Isolated
- Close to GR footpath
- Panoramic view
- Presence of livestock and guard dogs
- Cycling itinerary less than 1 km away
