Alligator Bay, a renowned animal park in Beauvoir, Normandy, is a must-visit for families during your stay at Camping de l’Émeraude. Located on the road to Mont-Saint-Michel, the park offers various activities for children and adults, along with the chance to discover a wide range of reptile species.
Alligator Bay: a reptile-focused park born from passion
From a young age, the founder of Alligator Bay was fascinated by snakes and also developed an interest in terrarium keeping. Wanting to share his passion with the public, he temporarily exhibited his reptile collection in a facility in Beauvoir between 1990 and 1993. Encouraged by the positive feedback from visitors, Jean-Pierre Macé decided to establish a permanent facility after fulfilling the necessary administrative requirements. In 1994, he opened the Mont-Saint-Michel Reptilarium to reptile enthusiasts. The park expanded in 1996 and 1998, adding a landscaped garden to host lizards, more turtle species, and snakes. In 2006, with the addition of a new area and the arrival of crocodiles and alligators, the park was renamed Alligator Bay.
The alligator greenhouse: encounters with caimans, crocodiles, and alligators
Visitor reviews confirm that Alligator Bay is an excellent destination for a family day out in Manche. Beyond its unique atmosphere, children and adults will be amazed throughout the visit, enriched by educational and informative explanations. One of the zoo’s highlights is its spectacular tropical crocodile greenhouse. By following the winding walkway that overlooks the greenhouse, you can admire groups of Nile and Cuban crocodiles. Further along, you’ll spot broad-snouted caimans, Mississippi alligators, and even white alligators. Among the greenhouse’s activities, you can watch crocodile feeding sessions held every Saturday and Sunday at 4:30 PM.
The turtle farm: a special moment with these terrestrial or aquatic reptiles
After visiting the alligators, continue to the turtle farm. This zoological farm hosts various species of herbivorous, carnivorous, aquatic, and terrestrial animals. The farm is designed to allow close observation while ensuring the safety of both visitors and animals. Unlike most parks, the turtle greenhouse is open to the public, enabling you to pet the turtles and explore their habitats. This fun-filled journey allows you to admire Seychelles giant tortoises, ornate forest tortoises, and marginated tortoises. After interacting with a turtle, marvel at the resin dinosaur plain and take beautiful family photos.
The dragon labyrinth: embark on an adventure in this animal park
The dragon labyrinth, another highlight of the park, houses one of the largest reptile collections in France and even Europe. It offers a unique experience by immersing you in the fascinating world of reptiles. As you explore the caves, you’ll encounter various animals, such as sinuous boas and captivating pinecone skinks. The deeper you go, the more intriguing reptiles you’ll find, including iguanas and chameleons known for their color-changing abilities. You’ll also see Ethiopian vipers and monitor lizards with their distinctive forked tongues. To replicate the animals’ natural environment, the Alligator Bay team has equipped their terrariums with climate control.
Practical information about the Mont-Saint-Michel Animal Park
Alligator Bay Animal Park is located just minutes away from Mont-Saint-Michel Bay. On your way to the site, enjoy stunning views of the bay and the Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey. Free parking is available at the entrance and behind the park. Admission fees, with tickets available for purchase online, are €15 for adults and €10 for children over 3 years old. Group rates are also offered. Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours to tour the zoo, but you can revisit the areas as often as you like. Between visits to the three sections, you can enjoy snacks at the designated area or let your children play at the playground near the park exit.
In addition to its proximity to Alligator Bay Animal Park, Camping Émeraude, located in Ille-et-Vilaine, stands out for its setting in unspoiled nature and the wide range of services it offers. Whether you choose to rent a mobile home or book a pitch at this open-air hotel, you’ll have access to on-site activities and entertainment. During your stay, take time to explore other must-see spots in Normandy, such as Saint-Malo and Dinan, along with Alligator Bay.