Country of snow and sun
The department of the Hautes-Alpes is characterized by its great diversity in geography and climate due to difference in altitude (from 400 to 4000 m), ensuring new sensations every new visit. In the heart of two Natural Parks, the Ecrins National Park and the Queyras Regional Park, nature flourishes and each season announces itself and brings along other activities in the Hautes-Alpes.
In winter, from November onwards, this high mountain area is blessed with snow, sunshine and blue skies. The ski areas and villages in the hautes-Alpes together offer 31 ski areas and 22 nordic sites. They are well equipped to meet the expectations of the public and the resorts in the Hautes-Alpes rely on their imagination to please all members of the family.
In April, when skiers and hikers enjoy the last of the spring snow, the flora wakes up in the valleys and everywhere rafts, tubes and other fun crafts come down the rivers.
In summer the lakes make excellent stops for hikers and dreamers. Serre-Ponçon, Europe’s the largest man-made lake, captures the light and attracts sailors and walkers. The summer resorts welcome you to take a breath of fresh mountain air and with a large choice of activities.
Autumn, with its gentle climate, offers magnificent colours while the first snow already appears on the mountain peaks against a starry sky. And Gap, Briançon et Embrun offer events, festivals and trade fairs all year round.
