Scientific and empirical knowledge about trees, forests and nature in general has progressed spectacularly in recent years. What was often attributed to popular beliefs or magic is now increasingly proving to be part of a tangible and demonstrable reality that highlights the genius of nature. The new educational trail will unveil these incredible discoveries to visitors in a fun and innovative way.
Knowledge about trees and forests has progressed considerably to reveal some fascinating scientific realities. Given the climate and environmental challenges we now face, showcasing these discoveries is vital to strengthening our bond with nature.
The project in question aims to rehabilitate an existing path, the Mas des Grandes Roches discovery trail, which requires a complete overhaul.
Created in 2005 with support from the Audemars Piguet Foundation for Trees, the Mas des Grandes Roches discovery trail was inaugurated to mark the 130th anniversary of the Audemars Piguet Manufacture. However its current state – notably the state of its information panels – is unsatisfactory, compromising visitor numbers. And yet, this trail remains highly relevant, as it is located near a forest refuge that is very popular with visitors at a time when the Grandes Roches site is being revived to re-attract tourists.
The planned renovation work is based on recent scientific discoveries about forests. The new trail aims to present this new knowledge to the general public in a simple, understandable way through educational audiovisual materials that can be readily accessed by all visitors on their walk. The idea is that it will contribute to educating a wide range of people about sustainable development, while creating synergies between the region’s key sustainability stakeholders. It is also hoped that the new trail will help channel the flow of visitors in the Grandes Roches area of Le Brassus, one of the main tourist attractions in the Vallée de Joux.
The Mas des Grandes Roches trail – which will be renamed the "Les arbres, entre visible et invisible" learning trail – runs alongside the “Risoud resonance wood learning trail” created in 2023 with the Foundation’s support. The project will therefore be modelled on the latter’s infrastructure to ensure that the educational resources offered to visitors remain coherent.
