The Southern Alps, France’s second mountain destination
The Southern French Alps are France’s second-largest mountain destination, with 62 alpine and cross-country ski resorts.
A true paradise for snow lovers, easily accessible from Milan and Turin thanks to the new Oulx–Briançon bus connection via Montgenèvre.
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This diverse and spectacular region will also be the focus of the 2030 Winter Olympic Games, with Serre Chevalier and Montgenèvre as the main venues.
Let’s discover together the areas that form the enchanting mosaic of the Southern Alps.
Queyras and Guillestrois: authentic mountains between nature and culture
The Guillestrois, overlooking the Durance River and dominated by Mont-Dauphin, boasts a fortified village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and awarded the title of “Most Beautiful Village in France.”
A little further on, the Queyras offers an authentic Alpine experience: four valleys and eight historic villages nestled in a Regional Natural Park. Among these, Saint-Véran stands out, the highest municipality in Europe at 2,042 meters.
Here you can experience the mountains in a slower way all year round: ski mountaineering, ice climbing, dog sledding, paragliding, snowshoeing, mountain biking in the snow, and even craft and nature workshops.
For alpine skiing, Queyras offers four resorts—Abriès, Arvieux, Ceillac, and Molines/Saint-Véran—with 100 km of slopes and a single ski pass.
For cross-country skiing, it is the third largest Nordic resort in France with over 200 km of trails.
New for 2025–26: the new Ceillac 1640 4-Season Biathlon Stadium, unique in the Southern Alps.
An experience not to be missed: a night under the stars at the Saint-Véran Astronomical Observatory, at 3,000 meters
The Pays des Écrins: 100% nature
In the heart of the Écrins National Park, eight municipalities and two resort villages—Puy Saint Vincent and Pelvoux-Vallouise—offer a pristine and authentic environment.
Here, the mountains are synonymous with freedom, sustainability, and sharing.
Activities include downhill skiing and ski mountaineering, snowshoeing, paragliding, ice climbing, and dog sledding, as well as visits to the National Park with its legendary peaks, such as the Barre des Écrins (4,102 m).
A perfect place for those seeking adventure and pure nature.
The Ubaye Valley: Rejuvenate in touch with nature
The Ubaye Valley is a haven of peace and authenticity, boasting three ski resorts, one Nordic ski resort, and the lively town of Barcelonnette in the heart of the valley.
Free from industry and pollution, it offers breathtaking landscapes and a wide range of outdoor activities: alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, skijoring, electric snowmobiles, giant ziplines, aerial sports, and paragliding.
Plus, it boasts a fascinating historical connection with Mexico: the Ubaye emigrants, returning wealthy, built their elegant “Mexican” villas here, now a symbol of a unique heritage.
Barcelonnette is enlivened year-round by Mexican-style festivals and celebrations.
Montgenèvre: Alpine pearl on the border with Italy
Montgenèvre combines the authenticity of an Alpine village with the comfort of a modern resort.
With over 100 km of slopes and direct access to the international Milky Way (400 km), it is a paradise for skiers of all levels.
Don’t miss the Monty Express, one of the longest bobsleighs in France, and the Durancia Spa & Wellness, where relaxation and the mountains blend into a rejuvenating experience.
Events and shows throughout the season make Montgenèvre a vibrant destination year-round.
Serre Chevalier-Briançon: sport, well-being and history
Serre Chevalier-Briançon combines the historical charm of the Vauban fortifications (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) with 250 km of slopes and the natural spa of Monêtier-les-Bains, famous since Roman times.
This season’s new additions include new accommodations—from the Serra Neva residence to the La Caserne de Briançon hotel—and the new beginner’s area on the Méa plateau.
The resort continues its commitment to environmental sustainability and renewable energy, becoming a model of green mountain living.
For relaxation, the new La Rotonde spa offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks.
Discover the Southern Alps: nature, sports, and authenticity
The Southern French Alps are the ideal choice for those who want to experience the mountains authentically, combining sports, wellness, and culture.
From the valleys of Queyras to the peaks of the Écrins, from the festivals of Barcelonnette to the sustainable luxury of Serre Chevalier, each location offers a unique experience to be enjoyed year-round.
