Tips

of our vacationists

Info

The Hautes-Alpes are full of surprises. At 860 meters above sea level, Embrun is a peaceful tourist destination that combines nature, sports and heritage. Nestled in the heart of the Durance valley, the town and its surrounding villages (Embrun Serre-Ponçon, Saint-André d'Embrun, Baratier,...) have always been an ideal territory because of their geographical position between lakes and mountains. It has attracted many peoples over the centuries and still attracts today vacationers looking for adventures in the Alps.

The Embrunais's past has always been very eventful. As early as antiquity, Embrunais became the capital of a small Celtic people called the Caturiges. During the Middle Ages, it passed from one county to another according to the great events of the region. During the wars of religion, it is a Protestant leader who in turn makes his capital. The religious heritage of the region is particularly important. The Cathedral Notre-Dame du Réal proudly overlooks the city. In the past, it was one of the most important religious buildings in the French Alps thanks to its position on a road to the papacy. Now, it is technically no longer a cathedral but a church belonging to the diocese of Gap. Lovers of religious art can not fail to visit the sacred art museum housed in the Chapelle Saint-Anne. A beautiful collection of magnificent priestly garments and liturgical ornaments is on display. On the village of Crots, a few kilometers from Embrunais, you will find two unique and very different monuments. The Chateau de Picomtal and its four towers are astonishing for their imposing architecture and luxurious interior. On the contrary, the Notre Dame de Boscodon Abbey is renowned for its sobriety. Both monuments offer guided tours as well as workshops, concerts and conferences.

The Estate of Embrun is also home to many quality ski resorts. Whether you are a small cozy resort or a large estate, the Hautes-Alpes will satisfy you. For a family atmosphere, go to Crévoux or Réallon. These equipped resorts have ski areas on a human scale, where you can ski in peace. And to ensure the most complete calm, one stays in the surrounding villages such as Baratier or Puy-Sanières. The great skiers will no doubt have heard of Les Orres. This one is on several floors and it is perfect for those who see things big ! Internationally renowned pistes, a superb snow park, sled areas, a Nordic ski area, an initiation area and, above all, 100 kilometers of marked trails. Just that !

Embrun and its villages are also particularly appreciated by the admirers of nature, and for good reason : the territory is part of the immense National Park of the Ecrins. This protected natural area shelters an impressive fauna and flora : nearly 1800 plant species and 350 animal species have chosen to live there. These include 235 birds and 74 mammals. The park also has a multitude of marked hiking routes that make it possible to safely browse and discover these places. Do not miss the lake of Serre-Ponçon. These turquoise waters glitter throughout the year and, during the summer season, a large number of sporting and recreational activities are concentrated on these shores. Water sports, aquapark or idleness, the hardest will still be to choose !