LA PELOUSE DE LA ROCHE À VILLOUXEL

The village of Villouxel has three remarkable natural areas, including the limestone lawn of La Roche. Covering an area of 1.5 hectares, it is the smallest lawn in the network of the Pays de Neufchâteau. Nevertheless, it is home to species that are unique in the department. Villouxel is situated between the imposing wooded plateau of Midrevaux and the mound of Mont-lès-Neufchâteau. Oriented on a north-south axis, the Saônelle valley offers a corridor of greenery from Frebécourt to Liffol-le-Grand. The village, set on a gentle slope, has preserved its traditional architecture which contributes to the charm of its narrow streets. A discovery trail crosses the lawn, the departure can be from the top of the village or from the amazing wash house located at the foot of the rock. Walking on the lawn, you can discover different varieties of insects such as the Tetrix calcicole, the Criquet des mouillères or the Grand Diable. Six species of Zygen butterflies enjoy the place: watch them carefully! A remarkable flora is also present on the lawn including grasses (Leman Fescue and Erect Brome) and orchids (Fly Ophrys and Hanging Orchid). The La Roche site is home to 2 particularly rare and fragile species, hence their national protection: the Rock Pigamon and the Aster amelle. This site is protected and managed by the Conservatoire d'espaces naturels de Lorraine, in partnership with the municipality.