Grand Site de France label: the year of renewal
An exceptional territory…
The Grand Site de France Solutré Pouilly Vergisson offers a iconic landscape combining limestone cliffs (Roche de Solutré and Roche de Vergisson), prestigious vineyards (Pouilly-Fuissé, Saint-Véran), diversity of natural environments (calcareous grasslands, forests, hedgerows, Natura 2000 sites) and wine-growing villages with a rich built heritage. Mecca of Prehistoryoccupied by humans for over 57,000 years, it gave its name to the Solutrean culture and today constitutes a reference archaeological site in Europe.
For such a place, a project was needed. A sustainable project to preserve the future, an ambitious project to enhance the heritage, a human project to bring life to the territory.
Discover the project… Committed to a long-term approach
The Grand Site de France Solutré Pouilly Vergisson is currently engaged in a phase of renewal of its labelThis essential step aims to: consolidate the actions undertaken, adapting management to new challenges (visitor numbers, climate, biodiversity) and strengthen the territorial project on a broader scale.
©Stéphane GodinIn 2013, the site was officially awarded the Grand Site de France label by the State, recognizing the preservation of its landscapes and its natural and cultural heritage, as well as quality of site management and its facilities. Since receiving this certification, the territory has been engaged in a continuous process of sustainable management, aiming to reconcile several priorities:
- La protection of landscapes and natural environments, in particular by supporting local stakeholders in their development projects (dry stone work, replanting of vines, clearing, etc.), maintaining the openness of limestone grasslands in connection with the Natura 2000 scheme, as well as monitoring natural areas and managing herds provided by the landscape team.
- La control of visitor numbers, which attracts around 200,000 visitors per year, also represents a major challenge. It relies on off-site programming and communication initiatives aimed at showcasing the Grand Site's territory in all its diversity, throughout the year.
- The project is based on the involvement of the residentsschools and local actors, in particular through the Accrochés network (a network of local professional actors, ambassadors of the territory) and the development of artistic and cultural education (EAC) projects.
- Un local development that respects the site's identity
This label guarantees a sustainable balance between welcoming the public, protecting the environment and local development.
What is a Grand Site de France?
Un Grand Site of France is a territory remarkable for its landscapes and heritage. protected by the State and being the subject of sustainable and exemplary management.
The label recognizes a management approach that aims to:
- – preserve the landscapes, biodiversity and the identity of the place,
- – mastering the tourist traffic,
- – to offer a quality visitor experience,
- – associate the local residents and stakeholders
It exists today around twenty certified sites (Baie de Somme, Puy de Dôme, Cirque de Navacelles…), and others are involved in the labeling process.
Discover the labelWELCOME YOU
At the foot of the Rock of Solutre are:
- le Solutré Prehistory Museum, which features exceptional collections of prehistoric objects, as well as its Archaeological park.
- la House of the Grand Site, which offers a landscape interpretation center, permanent exhibitions, and a friendly cafe and practical information to help you plan your visit.
On the Grand Site, you can also discover many outdoor activities, including hiking trails and cycling routes.
