In the vicinity

Vallouise-Pelvoux, the heart of the valley

Just a few kilometers from the resort, Vallouise-Pelvoux is the natural gateway to the Écrins massif. Nestled at the confluence of several valleys, it is home to numerous authentic hamlets and offers direct access to the highest peaks, including the mythical Barre des Écrins.
With its heritage, valley-bottom landscapes and Alpine ambience, it's a must-see for discovering thearea's identity.

Things to do :

• Hiking and trail running
• Mountain biking and road biking
• White-water activities (rafting, kayaking in the Gyr)
• Markets and cultural visits

Ailefroide, Pré de Madame Carle and the glaciers

At the end of the valley, Ailefroide is a Mecca for mountaineers, surrounded by prestigious peaks such as Mont Pelvoux andLes Bans.
Further on, the Pré de Madame Carle impresses with its immense glacial cirque, the starting point for hikes to the Glacier Blanc, the largest glacier in the massif.
It's here that the adventure to the high mountains and the famous Barre des Écrins, the massif's highest point, begins.

Things to do :

• High-altitude hiking (Glacier Blanc, Glacier Noir)
• Mountaineering and glacier tours
• Rock-climbing (major international climbing spot)
• Ski touring
• Glacier observation and high-mountain scenery

Refuges and long hikes

Mountain lovers can extend their experience by spending a night at altitude. The Refuge du Glacier Blanc, perched at over 2,500 m, can be reached after a 2h30 hike from the Pré de Madame Carle.
Other emblematic refuges, such as those at Pelvoux and Les Bans, line the high altitude itineraries, offering convivial stops in the heart of the peaks.
The region is also criss-crossed by legendary itineraries such as the GR54, one of the finest Alpine treks, which circles the entire massif.

High-altitude lakes: exceptional landscapes

The Écrins abound in mountain lakes, veritable jewels nestled at altitude. Lac de l'Eychauda, at the foot of a glacier, impresses with its wild, mineral setting, while Lac de Puy Aillaud offers a spectacular, accessible panorama of the surrounding peaks.
Further afield, lakes Palluel and Faravel, in the heart of the Freissinières valley, reveal an even more unspoilt ambience of alpine pastures, silence and wide-open spaces. And these are just a few examples: many other high-altitude lakes are accessible nearby, to vary the pleasures and discoveries as you hike.

These itineraries allow you to discover a more raw mountain, between water, rocks and vast horizons.

Ideal places for :

• Hiking or trail running
• A picnic or nature break
• Landscape photography
• Observing alpine fauna

⚠️ Please note: swimming in high-altitude lakes is strictly forbidden.

Dormillouse and the Freissinières valley

Deep in the Freissinières valley, Dormillouse is a special place. Accessible only on foot, this perched village is the only year-round inhabited hamlet in the heart of the Ecrins National Park. A path leads along the river, through forests and waterfalls, before arriving at this small village clinging to the mountain. Here, time seems to stand still: traditional houses, narrow streets and a panoramic view over the valley create a unique atmosphere.

The Freissinières valley, on the other hand, has a wild, unspoilt character. Long isolated, it was a refuge for the Vaudois, giving it a strong history and a special identity. Even today, it remains one of the region's most authentic valleys, ideal for those seeking calm, nature and wide-open spaces. Between mountain pastures, torrents and peaks, the scenery is varied and always spectacular.

A timeless getaway, ideal for disconnecting and experiencing the mountains differently.

What to do on site :

• Day hikes or itineraries to hamlets and refuges
• Discover the heritage and history of Dormillouse
• Observe waterfalls and valley landscapes
• Ice climbing in winter (recognized site)
• Ski touring and snowshoeing
• Observe alpine fauna (chamois, marmots, birds of prey)

L'Argentière-La Bessée and its mining heritage

At the entrance to the valley, L'Argentière-la-Bessée boasts a rich industrial past and a surprising natural environment. The Fournel valley is home to ancient silver mines, while the Deslioures nature reserve is home to remarkable flora, including the famous blue thistle.

Things to do :

• Visit the Fournel silver mines
• Hiking in the valley
• Climbing (natural sites and via ferrata)
• Whitewater (rafting, kayaking or hydrospeed on the Durance and canyoning in the Fournel)
• Observation of flora and protected natural areas

A complete destination, combining nature, sport and heritage.