Explore the Malzéville plateau: hikes, points of interest, and practical tips

The Malzéville Plateau is an exceptional natural space that offers numerous opportunities for hiking enthusiasts. Its varied landscapes, rich fauna and flora, and local heritage make it an ideal destination to escape for a walk. In this article, discover the best routes to explore this magnificent region, as well as some must-see points of interest and practical tips for organizing your outing.

The Highlighted Routes of the Malzéville Plateau

Several marked trails cross the Malzéville Plateau, allowing you to discover its different panoramas and natural habitats. Here is a selection of the most appreciated routes:

1. The Côtes Circuit: this 8 km trail takes you to discover the limestone slopes that border the plateau and offers stunning views of the Meurthe Valley.
2. The Hermit’s Woods Loop: a 5 km route that crosses a beech forest and allows you to observe the riches of the local fauna and flora.
3. The Lavières Path: with a distance of 6 km, this trail takes you to discover the remnants of ancient stone quarries and the troglodyte habitats of the plateau.

Points of Interest to Discover on the Malzéville Plateau

In addition to its remarkable natural landscapes, the Malzéville Plateau also hosts a rich local heritage. Here are some curiosities not to miss during your hike:

• The Malzéville Fort: built at the end of the 19th century to strengthen the defense of Nancy, this military fort offers an exceptional panorama of the Meurthe Valley.
• The Saint-Fiacre Chapel: erected in the 17th century, this chapel dedicated to the patron saint of gardeners reflects the religious and rural history of the region.
• The Troglodyte Habitats: these dwellings carved into the limestone rock are characteristic of the plateau and allow you to learn more about past ways of life.
• The Malzéville Educational Farm: located in the heart of the plateau, this farm welcomes young and old to introduce them to animals and farming work.

The Fauna and Flora of the Plateau

The various natural environments found on the Malzéville Plateau offer a great diversity of plants and animals to observe. Among the emblematic species of the region, you may encounter:

• The Eurasian Eagle-Owl, a nocturnal bird of prey that nests in the limestone cliffs of the plateau.
• The Bee Orchid, a wild orchid whose shape resembles that of a bee.
• The Wall Lizard, a small, very agile reptile that can be seen on the sun-warmed stones.

Practical Tips for a Successful Hike

To fully enjoy your outing on the Malzéville Plateau, here are some useful tips:

1. Prepare Your Itinerary: consult the map of marked trails and choose the one that best matches your desires and physical level.
2. Check the Weather: some portions of the plateau can be exposed to harsh weather, and yes, there can be snow in Lorraine, so be sure to check the weather before leaving and adjust your equipment accordingly.
3. Respect Nature: take your trash, do not pick plants, and do not approach animals too closely to preserve these precious ecosystems.
4. Hike in a Group: sharing this experience with friends or family will make your outing even more enjoyable and friendly.

With these tips and information, you are now ready to embark on the discovery of the treasures of the Malzéville Plateau. Between its diverse trails, breathtaking panoramas, rich fauna and flora, and local heritage, this region offers an ideal setting to escape and enjoy nature. Feel free to share your experiences and good addresses in the comments to help future hikers!