Hautes Alpes
 Population: 113.000 inh. Surface 5.643 km2

This departement is formed of valleys canyons and mountains going from the northern Alps to Provence following the Napoleon's route to Gap, and ranges from 500m. to 4302m. in altitude. Endowed with an exceptional environment the Hautes Alpes has managed to keep clear of industry and large crowds. The atmosphere has stayed casual and convivial. There is an alpine feeling in this departement due to its steep slopes, the abondance of snow and the mountain villages.

Its Provencal character remains true, however, because of the sunny days, the cooking,and of course that typical Provencal accent.

There is an alpine feeling in this departement due to its steep slopes, the abondance of snow and the mountain villages. Its Provencal character remains true, however, because of the sunny days, the cooking,and of course that typical Provencal accent.

Winter

The Hautes Alpes boasts of more than 30 different ski ressorts from Queyras to Devolny, from the Briangon area to the Vallonite. Every type of skiing is available even parachute skiing, all enjoyed in the warm atmosphere of authentic chalets, snowy pastures and sleigh rides.

Summer

The splendor of this departement can be discovered through the varied activities at hand. One has such different choices as hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, mountain climbing or even hang gliding. Sailing is possible and since there are 500km of rivers rafting kayaking and canyoning are popular here.

50% of the French flora is to be found in the Hautes Alpes.
The national park of Ecrin (100,000 ha.) is home to chamois, ibex, marmots and grouse and throughout the park wind 1000 km.of marked footpaths, In the regional park of Queyras (60,000 ha.) a visitor will find little villages someimes as high up as 2000m. One can buy delicious mountain cheeses, aromatic honeys or bite into a juicy apple while admiring the scenery.