In the heart of the French Alps, the picturesque region of Hautes-Alpes is known for its dramatic landscapes, superb ski slopes and unspoilt mountain villages. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic chalet escape or a fun-filled family holiday, this is a wonderful year-round destination for outdoorsy types. Accommodation options include farmhouse B&Bs as well as converted châteaux, with the best places to stay in the Hautes-Alpes set appealingly close to the pistes.

The Serre Chevalier ski area, the largest in the Southern French Alps, boasts 250km of fantastic slopes for skiers and snowboarders alike. Zip along snowy mountainsides and through forests of towering pines, or teach the kids to ski on beginner runs before they work their way towards blue and red pistes. The Vercors Regional Natural Park is fantastic for cross-country skiers. Summer visitors can hike, climb, mountain bike or kayak in the Écrins National Park, or paraglide above the mountains.

Heritage aficionados should explore fortified Briançon, with its pastel-painted houses and UNESCO-listed status, whilst party-goers may prefer buzzy Les Deux Alpes. The villages of La Grave, Ancelle and Le Monêtier-les-Bains — where one of the best places to stay in the Hautes-Alpes is located — are also lovely.

The Best Places to Stay in the Hautes-Alpes

For Traditional Charm

• L'Auberge du Choucas offers 12 traditional rooms with exposed wooden beams and quilt-topped beds set above an acclaimed gourmet restaurant. A charming, tranquil choice for keen foodies or heritage buffs in the village of Le Monêtier-les-Bains in Serre Chevalier. Set in a 17th-century building, just minutes from the slopes.
• Hotel de la Chausée is a cosy alpine hotel with wood-panelled walls, exposed beams and beds topped with red-and-white quilts. Owned by the same family for five generations, this is a friendly, affordable choice for a trip to Briançon with family and friends. The restaurant serves flavoursome regional dishes.
• Château de Picomtal is primarily a B&B, with six rooms and four suites featuring antique furnishings, floral fabrics and old-fashioned wallpapers. Public areas are great for putting your feet up, and the cookery workshops are good fun. Meeting spaces make this an ideal choice for group gatherings.

For Families or Groups

• Chamois Lodge is a lively, affordable hotel with simple, modern interiors — think cosy beds topped with crisp white sheets in rooms with pine panelling — as well as a buzzy all-day cocktail bar, bistro and small spa. Quadruple rooms with mezzanine levels are ideal for families or groups of friends. Great fun.
• La Grange des Ecrins offers five warm, welcoming guest rooms in a converted farmhouse. Perfect for trips as a family or with a big group of friends, this B&B has Alpine-inspired interiors with wooden beams and exposed stone walls, and space for additional beds. Splash around in the pool or hot tub and marvel at mountain views before tucking in to generous table d'hôte dinners. Lovely.
• L'Alta Peyra is a stunning hotel in Saint-Véran. Expect swish interiors, space for children in larger rooms, and an abundance of top-notch amenities. The children's play area makes this a family favourite. Grown-ups will love the spa, swimming pool, terrace dining and hip bar. Very smart.

For Foodies

• Chalet Mounier is an elegant 43-room, family-owned traditional Alpine chalet. Enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, a sun terrace, a full spa and hot tubs after big days out. Beautiful views of the Écrins National Park and two ski lifts just 150 metres away add to the appeal. However, the big draw is undoubtedly the marvellous Michelin-starred restaurant. Savour Le P'tit Polyte's creative cuisine by sampling their 'Origine' or 'Inspiration' tasting menus — both are superb.
• Maison Cimes has just five minimalist bedrooms, all of which channel contemporary Scandi chic with navy, slate greys and bold saffron tones. The gourmet eatery is reason enough to visit, with organic, seasonal ingridents used to craft innovative dishes by the passionate chef-owner. Families are welcome but this is a rejuvenating spot for couples or individual travellers. Small yet mighty.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY Chalet

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Grenoble Airport or to Turin Airport and continue to your destination by bus or taxi. Alternatively, hop aboard a night train from Paris or Lyon to nearby Briançon and drive across from there.
• The Alps are wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between December and March for the best skiing conditions in the Serre Chevalier Valley. If you're looking to hike in the mountains, come between May and August for warm sunshine, beautiful landscapes and temperatures of around 17-20°C.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Briançon.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in nearby Savoie.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Hautes-Alpes