5 walks with a view in the Queyras Regional Nature Reserve

Resembling an island in the ocean of the Southern Alps, the Queyras Regional Nature Reserve is swathed in bubbling streams and shaded larch forests. Its gorges and high mountain passes form a rich patchwork of landscapes just begging to be explored…

Sporty fun around Bric Bouchet

Leaning up against the Italian border, the charming village of Abriès is home to miles of signposted walking trails ideal for mountain biking and hiking enthusiasts alike. Spanning 160 km² and soaring up to 3,000 metres above sea level, this is a place you won’t want to miss! The Autour du Bric Bouchet trail is an absolute must if you’re a fan of sporty hikes and gorgeous mountainscapes. The 18.2 km trail with 1,288 metres of uphill and downhill slopes, lined with mythical summits, larch trees and mountain lakes, takes about 6½ hours to complete. On your way, keep your eyes peeled for the Alpine Ibex. Watch out for the nebbia too: a sea of clouds that rises from Italy and clings to the rocky relief along the border. And after the effort comes comfort – treat yourself to a gourmet stop-off at the Italian refuge of Lago Verde, famed for its fresh pasta… Delizioso!

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Une publication partagée par Thomas Rigault (@thomasrigault)

A gentle stroll from Chapelle de la Montette to Roux d’Abriès

If you’re seeking a gentle walk suitable for all the family, head out to explore the architectural heritage of Roux d’Abriès. The 2-hour trail, measuring 5.6 km, is virtually flat. Cross the stream, admire the ruins of La Montette, climb up to Chapelle Sainte Marie Madeleine at the top of the hamlet, then head to Oratoire Saint Joseph overlooking the river Roux… A varied programme sure to please all ages and tastes. Our top tip: don’t miss the stunning view from La Montette. And for a fascinating immersion in the lives of the men and women who defied the harsh mountain winters in days gone by, pop over to hamlet of Pra Roubaud. You’ll even find a restored bread oven there!

Crête de Curlet – Saint-Véran and its exceptional viewpoints

The trail leading to Crête de Curlet in Saint-Véran is undoubtedly the locals’ favourite hike. Its many stunning viewpoints over the surrounding valleys and summits are definitely worth going out of your way for. Get the ball rolling with the Croix de Curlet belvedere, gazing out over Saint-Véran. Valiant walkers will want to push on to the magnificent viewpoint over Saint-Véran and Aigue Blanche valley, before heading back to Croix de Curlet and Pic de Cascavelier via the mill bridge and Cabanes de Lamaron. This 4-hour stroll, spanning 7.4 km with around 700 metres of uphill/downhill slopes, is sure to delight hiking fans.

The colourful Sentier du Pré-Michel

Standing under the watchful eye of Mount Viso, Pré-Michel is an ode to the power of nature. Today, plants previously whittled down by scythes when the area was farmed have retaken their throne, forming a magnificently diverse ecosystem. Follow the botanical footpath located at the gateway to the Ristolas reserve. This very easy round trip lasts around 2 hours and covers 3 km. We definitely recommend visiting in June or July to see the flowers in full bloom and revel in the sight of black, green and great spotted woodpeckers flitting around the aspen groves. You can start or end this little excursion with a visit to the superb “Arche des Cimes”, an interpretation centre in the village of Ristolas and proud holder of the “Valeurs Parc Naturel Régional” label.

Botanical escape on the Sentier des Astragales

It’s time to head to the “Sentier des Astragales”, set on a mountain slope resembling a sundial, for an exceptional botanical adventure. Here, the short winters and very hot summers favour hardy plants and animals adapted to arid terrains. This easy, 2-km loop, ideal in very early summer, promises a fascinating foray into the world of the Foxtail Milk Vetch, a rare and protected plant found only in hot, dry climates. You’ll also comes across a little plateau of Scotch pines on your way. And the views over the village of Château-Ville-Vieille and Guil valley are simply divine…