In the heart of the Queyras nature park

The natural paradise of Queyras lies in the heart of the mountains in the east of the Hautes-Alpes département. The Queyras really is a world apart, and getting there is an expedition in itself! After passing through the village of Guillestre, the road winds its way through the impressive cliffs that surround the Queyras. The Queyras has to be earned, but you'll find it's well worth the effort! The wonders of nature, vast forests, miles of footpaths and abundant wildlife are yours for the taking!

The natural beauty of the Queyras Regional Park

- © Francois Roux / Shutterstock

From Guillestre to Saint-Véran

Our route departs from the small local capital of Guillestre.

The local market is held every Monday morning. In summer, from June onwards, the big weekly market welcomes up to 200 fairground vendors!

Make the most of your visit to the village to discover the main sights of this medieval town, perched at an altitude of over 1,000 metres.

Stroll through the many narrow streets and squares lined with shops.

Next, take the D902, a remarkable route that winds its way through the gorges of the Guil. Here you enter the heart of the Queyras.

The mountains are more imposing, the road is winding and passes through stone tunnels - a thrilling experience.

On your way to Saint-Véran, you won't want to miss the remarkable site of Château Queyras!

Standing on a rocky promontory, Fort Queyras has proudly dominated the valley since the 13th century. You can also take a guided tour of the monument.

You'll also find the Guillestrois and Queyras Tourist Office (in the commune of Château Ville Vieille).

Here you'll find a wealth of information on the Queyras Regional Nature Park. This extraordinary natural area covers a total surface area of almost 615 km² and has been protected since 1977.

At the end of the afternoon, after passing through the typical village of Molines en Queyras, you'll reach the highest village in Europe, Saint-Véran, where you'll spend a cosy night!

The village centre of Saint-Véran in the Southern Alps

- © BTWImages / Shutterstock

Where to sleep near Saint-Véran?

Hotel Le Grand Tétras boasts an exceptional location, with sensational views of the mountains!

We offer a range of room types.

You can choose between a double room or a family room for 5 people.

A buffet breakfast is served every morning.

As an added bonus, there is also a bar and restaurant on site.

There is also a small fitness centre.

2* Hotel Le Grand Tetras Southern Alps
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2* Hotel Le Grand Tetras

This hotel is a 5-minute walk from the ski resort and is in the heart of the Queyras regional park.
7.9 Fine
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£91 / night
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From Saint-Véran to the Ristolas Mont-Viso nature reserve

Saint-Véran, the highest village in Europe, is famous for its beautiful chalets with their typical wooden architecture.

After an early-morning tour of the village, head back towards the villages of Abriès and Ristolas.

Today's destination is the Ristolas Mont Viso nature reserve, a paradise for hikers!

Your hike starts from the Échalp car park.

As you continue your walk, you'll reach the Mont Viso refuge and, further on, the border between France and Italy.

If you start your walk early, you may be lucky enough to spot roe deer, foxes and hinds. And don't forget that the wolf has made the reserve its territory!

The north face of Mont Viso seen from the Queyras nature park

- © Fifi montagne / Shutterstock

Where to stay near the Ristolas nature reserve in the Queyras?

The Edelweiss gîte is located in the small resort of Abriès, a few kilometres north of the Ristolas nature reserve.

The gîte offers comfortable double rooms and a family room for up to 5 people.

A continental breakfast is served every morning.

There is also a bar and a free car park reserved for guests.

Gite Edelweiss Southern Alps
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Gite Edelweiss

Enjoy mountain views.
8.4 Very good
From
£149 / night
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Practical information

👉 When should you come and enjoy the natural riches of the Queyras?

In the heart of the Hautes-Alpes, the Queyras massif enjoys a climate with very distinct seasons.

In winter, there's always plenty of snow. The small ski resorts of Abriès and Ceillac are very popular.

Spring and autumn are interesting off-seasons for hiking.

In summer, the sun is out to delight families.

🚌 How do I get to the Queyras nature park?

The Queyras lies to the east of the commune of Guillestre.

From Guillestre the Queyras valleys can be reached via the picturesque D 902 road.

There is a SNCF train station in the centre of Embrun. From Paris, take the TGV to Marseille-Saint Charles, then a TER to Embrun.

Then take a bus to Guillestre.

Marseille-Provence airport is around 250 kilometres from Guillestre, and provides a quick connection to Paris.

🚌 Where can I park in the Queyras nature park?

The village centre of Guillestre is easily accessible and parking is straightforward out of season.

The same applies to the main Queyras villages (Molines, Saint-Véran, Abriès).

In summer, however, most car parks become chargeable. Plan to arrive early to find a parking space quickly, especially on market days.

Outside the summer rush, you'll have no problem parking.

by Editorial Team
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