At the foot of the Lautaret Mountain pass, under the summits and glaciers, the Pays de la Meije Nordic Area is a magic spot surrounded by majestic and wild beauty. In this haven of peace the groves of trees give shelter to many wild animals.
The site is in the heart of nature, at the gateway to the Ecrins National Park, in a sumptuous corner of the Hautes Alpes. You'll be in a world of your own, an unspoilt place where contemplation is the order of the day, under the watchful eye of chamois, ermines, white hares and foxes. This area is ideally suited to Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. The cross-country ski trails are relatively flat, in the undergrowth and on the valley floor, except for the loop through the hamlet of Arsine.
- Cross-country ski trails: divided into three loops of 3, 7 and 10 km, with varied but fairly easy profiles.
- Walking trail: Villar d'Arène - La Gravière (8 km)
- Snowshoe trail: tour of Villar d'Arène hamlets (11 km).
- Natural outdoor skating rink with skate rental (at Gîte le Pas de l'Âne).
- Toboggan runs: one at Arsine and one at Jouvencelles, opposite Villar d'Arène.
- Ski field hockey: enjoy a game with family and friends. Hockey equipment (you'll need to bring your own skis) is available at the chalet every weekend and Wednesday outside school vacations, and every morning during school vacations.
- Relaxation and observation area with armchairs and spotting scopes on a lovely wooden terrace next to the chalet.
With the sun shining down on the high peaks in the depths of winter, the site benefits from excellent snow quality and good snow cover throughout the winter season.
Reminder: pedestrians and snowshoe hikers, please respect the dedicated areas. Cross-country ski trails are strictly reserved for skiers (municipal decree of 11/01/1986).
The welcome chalet of the Nordic Area, the departure of the cross country tracks at this point, and the sledge area are accessible to people with reduced mobility.
The Nordic Area is located 4 km from La Grave / shortly after Villar d'Arene, turn on your right at the crow's-foot, in the direction of Arsine / Guest House from "Le Pas de l'Ane".