A CUPULATTA – A FAMILY ADVENTURE FOR TURTLE LOVERS

by karola

Visit Europe’s leading center for turtle and tortoise research, breeding, and conservation. Fully integrated into abundant Corsican vegetation, this natural site covers an area of 2.5 ha boasting 170 species and over 3000 specimens from around the world.

Ideal for families with young children and nature lovers alike, the park makes for a great attraction when visiting Corsica’s arresting west coast.

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Park facilities provide a rare glimpse into the way of life and habits of turtles and tortoises.
Park facilities provide a rare glimpse into the way of life and habits of turtles and tortoises.

LOCATION OF A CUPULATTA

The park is situated on the main T20 road in the Vero commune, 17 km northeast of Ajaccio up in the Gravona River valley. Nestled on a hillside with a refreshing torrent running through the wooded banks this beautifully set sanctuary benefits from a peaceful shade even during the hottest midday hours.

Trains run from Ajaccio to Carbuccia from where it’s only a 20 min walk to the park via the D129 and T20 roads. As the Carbuccia station is on-demand be sure to press the arret button beforehand. Optionally, you may take a taxi or hop on one of the buses departing from Ajaccio to Corte and Bastia.

The sanctuary boasts over 3000 animals from around the world.
The sanctuary boasts over 3000 animals from around the world.

A CUPULATTA

Founded in 1993 by Philippe Magnan, now managed by the director and veterinarian Pierre Moisson, the sanctuary provides excellent conditions ensuring the welfare and happiness of the animals. Featured turtles and tortoises are very well cared for and enjoy plenty of space equipped with ponds and shelters best suited to their needs.

Beautifully set, the natural habitat of the park is home to an array of species, from tiny newborns, terrapins, alligator or cherry turtles to giant Galapagos and Seychelles tortoises.

The site also boasts a clinic where surgeries, analyses, and medical care are undertaken in optimal conditions while a carefully designed nursery gives home to tropical aquatic baby turtles.

Comprehensive park facilities allow for a unique educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Find other family-friendly activities and attractions in Corsica.

Ponds, streams and wetlands provide essential habitat to numerous species.
Ponds, streams and wetlands provide essential habitat to numerous species.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

  • There is a spacious partly shaded free car park in front of the sanctuary’s entrance.
  • The park is open 7 days a week- 1st April to 15th May 10:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m., 16th May to 15th September 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m., 16th September to 11th November 10:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
  • The standard fees: adults- €12, children 5-11 years old- €9, children 0-5 years old- free.
  • To save time, cruise ship one-day visitors coming from Ajaccio may purchase skip-the-line tickets online.
  • Allow around 2 hours for a full visit. The path is marked with signposts and dotted with panels providing detailed information on the presented species.
  • There is a snack bar at the entrance/exit of the site where you may purchase lunch or grab a refreshing drink.
  • A well-equipped gift shop offers turtle-themed souvenirs.
  • Well-maintained restrooms are available for use onsite.
  • The sanctuary address: T20, 20172 Vero, France.
  • For more information check the official website www.acupulatta.com.

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1 comment

Ania June 26, 2019 - 7:30 pm

Prześliczne miejsce z pięknymi żółwiami szczególnie polecane do odwiedzenia z rodziną i przyjaciółmi. Żółwie czują się tu jak u siebie 😃

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