Village des Tortues - Tortupole France
Carnoules, France
About Village des Tortues - Tortupole France
The Village des Tortues, now Tortupole France, is a tortoise conservation centre and refuge at Carnoules in the Var, about twenty kilometres from Brignoles, run by SOPTOM. Two hectares hold more than 1,600 tortoises of some fifty species from around the world, built around the Hermann's tortoise of the Massif des Maures, the species the centre exists to protect.
On site are a tortoise clinic, a chelonian museum, a training arm and a placement service for abandoned and found tortoises. Guided visits run several times a day. Dogs are not admitted even on a lead, bicycles and scooters are barred, and the water in the park is not drinkable. There is a snack bar and a picnic area, and admission funds the conservation work.
Visitors can park in the designated parking area near the entrance of the Village des Tortues. Parking is free, making it convenient for families and groups. It is advisable to arrive early during peak times to secure a good parking spot.
- There are no cloakroom or locker facilities available, so plan accordingly.
- Food and dining options may be limited, so consider bringing snacks or a picnic.
- Stroller and wheelchair rentals are not mentioned, so check in advance if needed.
- Photography is allowed, but be respectful of the animals and their habitats.
- Accepted payment methods are not specified, so it's best to bring cash or check in advance.
- Home to over 1,600 turtles across 50 species.
- Covers 2 hectares of natural habitat.
- Contributes directly to turtle conservation efforts in the Var region.