Walking - Rolampont Tufa Formation Discovery Trail
Discover one of the natural gems of Haute-Marne: the Rolampont tufa formation.
A monumental natural staircase formed by flowing water, the Rolampont tufa formation is a listed site, a living and active biological environment for millennia. A veritable natural laboratory, the tufa formation transforms moss into "tufa". The bicarbonate in the seepage water is broken down here: carbon dioxide is absorbed by the mosses (photosynthesis), which causes the dissolved limestone to precipitate and form the "tufa". The limestone deposits and moss growth form cushions that build up, gradually creating a natural dam. This is how the tufa formation results in this characteristic layout of terraced pools.
This protected natural area features a discovery and interpretive trail. You will find interpretive signs along the trail. Each one will introduce you to how the tufa formation works, its unique flora, and how it has been used by people.
A monumental natural staircase formed by flowing water, the Rolampont tufa formation is a listed site, a living and active biological environment for millennia. A veritable natural laboratory, the tufa formation transforms moss into "tufa". The bicarbonate in the seepage water is broken down here: carbon dioxide is absorbed by the mosses (photosynthesis), which causes the dissolved limestone to precipitate and form the "tufa". The limestone deposits and moss growth form cushions that build up, gradually creating a natural dam. This is how the tufa formation results in this characteristic layout of terraced pools.
This protected natural area features a discovery and interpretive trail. You will find interpretive signs along the trail. Each one will introduce you to how the tufa formation works, its unique flora, and how it has been used by people.