Grande Pile Peat Bog Regional Nature Reserve, a 1000 step walk - L'Eau et la Pierre - St-Germain - Vosges du Sud — ©Grande Pile peat bog|Both Better

The peat bog De la Grande Pile

Close to the Plateau des 1000 Étangs, the Tourbière de la Grande Pile in Saint-Germain stands out for its beauty and ecological importance. This exceptional site, protected as a regional nature reserve, boasts a unique ecosystem. Follow the “Balade à 1000 Temps” trail, designed by the Conservatoire d’espaces naturels de Franche-Comté, to discover the secrets of this peat bog.

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A unique ecosystem In Europe

The Grande Pile peat bog covers almost 60 hectares. This remarkable site is characterised by its low-lying location, a rare feature for this type of wetland. Its exceptional biodiversity is attracting the attention of scientists from all over the world, making the Grande Pile an ideal place to study the evolution of peat ecosystems.

On foggy days, the atmosphere of the peat bog takes on a fairytale quality, with floating mists giving the area a mystical, timeless feel. Photography enthusiasts will find it an inexhaustible source of inspiration, with scenes worthy of the finest works of fantasy. As for botany and zoology enthusiasts, they will be delighted to discover a rich and varied flora and fauna, from the carnivorous drosera to the multicoloured dragonflies, not forgetting the rare birds that make this place their refuge.

Respecting and preserving the peat bog

The Grande Pile peat bog is a fragile site that requires our attention and respect. As a visitor, you have a role to play in its preservation. To do so, it’s essential to follow a few simple but effective rules. Stay on the marked paths to avoid trampling sensitive plants and disturbing natural habitats. Don’t pick flowers or disturb animals, and make sure you leave no trace of your passage, including your rubbish. The facilities make it easier to access the site while minimising the impact of visitors on the environment.

A fun walk

Starting out from the Monts Reveaux pond, the “1000 Times” trail invites you to take a fun walk. Punctuated by explanatory panels and nature breaks, this trail is ideal for families wanting to discover this unique ecosystem while having fun.

The landscapes are reminiscent of those in The Lord of the Rings, adding a magical touch to your visit… If you’re familiar with the films, take a look at the Marsh of the Dead to immerse yourself in the atmosphere.

1000 Times walk: 5km, 2h, 30m ascent. Accessible. 8 interpretation stations along the way.

Remarkable biodiversity

Due to its vast size and low-lying location, the site has rare characteristics for a wetland. Here, flora and fauna coexist harmoniously, creating a precious balance. The biological richness of the peat bog attracts not only scientists but also nature lovers who come to observe this constantly evolving biodiversity.

Among the peat bog’s treasures are a variety of rare and emblematic plants such as the drosera, a fascinating carnivorous plant, and the linaigrette, whose white plumes sway in the wind. The expanses of sphagnum mosses, the spongy mosses that carpet the ground, play a crucial role in the formation of peat and provide a unique habitat for many species.

Carnivorous plant - Réserve Naturelle Régionale de la Tourbière de la Grande Pile, 1000 step walk - L'Eau et la Pierre - St-Germain - Vosges du Sud — ©Grande Pile peat bog|Both Better

Hikers discover the Grande Pile peat bog at Saint-Germain - Vosges du Sud - Haute-Saône — ©Grande Pile peat bog|Both Better

Reading table - Réserve Naturelle Régionale de la Tourbière de la Grande Pile, 1000 step walk - L'Eau et la Pierre - St-Germain - Vosges du Sud — ©Grande Pile peat bog|Both Better

People walking in the Grande Pile Peat Bog Regional Nature Reserve, a 1000-minute walk - L'Eau et la Pierre - St-Germain - Vosges du Sud — ©Grande Pile peat bog|Both Better

Bench where you can find the fauna of the peat bog - Réserve Naturelle Régionale de la Tourbière de la Grande Pile, 1000 step walk - L'Eau et la Pierre - St-Germain - Vosges du Sud — ©Grande Pile peat bog|Destination 70

As far as wildlife is concerned, the peat bog is a haven for numerous insects, amphibians, birds and small mammals. Brightly coloured dragonflies swirl over the pools, while frogs croak peacefully among the reeds. Birds find a welcome resting place here, and it’s not uncommon to spot rare species such as the marsh harrier or the common snipe.