Explore Camping Les Mélèzes at La Chapelle-en-Valgaudemar

Going from hamlet to hamlet is a good start for taking in the built heritage and history of Haut Valgaudemar before setting off to the summits.Opposite the Tourist Information Centre in La Chapelle, the GR54 footpath starts between the bar and the souvenir shop and heads up the valley to Le Clot. Follow the footpath that more or less follows the left bank of the Sèveraisse stream up to the hamlet of Bourg. Here, a footbridge at the bottom of Bourg enables you to cross to the right bank. The footpath continues to climb a little before reaching the hamlet of Rif du Sap. The route is then very peaceful up to old hamlet of Le Clot, via the Xavier Blanc mountain refuge where it is possible to quench your thirst. This footpath is also the return route but it is possible to catch the shuttle for the return journey.

Striding along at the alpine level, this itinerary leads to a refuge then to the Pas de l'Olan (2695 m) where you can admire the landscape of this valley perched up high.The path starts with a few bends on the scree and continues by crossing a heathland of heather. The view of the Navette valley and Portes hamlet which faces it comes progressively in to view. Then you arrive at the mountainous level in the middle of alpine grasslands, where there is a view of the village de la Chapelle and the l'Olan refuge. A few steps from there is an old concrete slab which was witness to the passage of an avalanche in the 1950s. A visit to the refuge to meet the guardian and/or to have a small snack is always agreeable. The last part of the ascent can really be admired for its alpine character. The path leads on between old polished glaciers before finishing on the scree just in front of the Pas de l'Olan (2695 m). The field of view extends from the entrance to the valley, the Pic Turbat (3023 m) and in the distance the Dévoluy massif. To begin the descent on the other slope attention is required but there is no technical difficulty. The descent is carried out quite directly on the scree slopes to reach the Clot de Combe-Froide, ancient meadow land. At this point an intersection leads to a crossroads at Bourelle with the original path.

A short introductory walk to see our natural heritage: Les Oulles du Diable!Go up to the village of Les Portes, then make for Pont des Oulles and descend as far as the bridge. On the way back, follow the path along the right bank.

Here, the variants of the GR®54 are complemented by the Tour of L'Oisans and Les Écrins from La Chapelle-en-Valgaudemar, for further exploration of the iconic landscapes of Les Écrins. Starting from La Chapelle-en-Valgaudemar, the Tour of L'Oisans and Les Écrins begins gently along the Séveraisse river before striding up the southern slope of the Pic des Souffles which offers an unrivalled view of the Valgaudemar valley. The next day's Stage consists in crossing the impressive Col de la Vaurze. Equally impressive is the descent down into the wild Valjouffrey. The verdant Col de Côte Belle leads to the village of Valsenestre in the Béranger valley. Take a restorative break at the end of this Stage before setting off again on variant B of the GR®54, which is the longest stage of the route in terms of time and one of the most difficult due to its significant elevation changes. Via the Col de la Romeïou, the variant takes you past numerous lakes, one of which is the most iconic on the Oisans side of Les Écrins: Lac du Lauvitel (1,530 m altitude). The next stage then takes you close to the famous Les Deux Alpes winter sports resort on both slopes (Vénosc and Mont-de-Lans) linked by variant C of the GR®54, and comes to the pretty village of Mizoen. The path continues, rising in altitude up the mountain side and shadowing the shore of the large Lac du Chambon below, before it reaches the refuges at the foot of the Emparis plateau. Above, the Col de Souchet offers a five-star view over La Meije. A descent of almost 1,000 metres brings you to La Grave. Here, you have to follow the Romanche river until you reach its source on the alpine pasture of Villar d'Arène. When you reach the Col d’Arsine, the scene is stunning. The surrounding realm of high peaks invites a visit to the glacial Lacs d’Arsine before embarking on a long descent following the mountain stream Le Petit Tabuc, down to the valley of La Guisane and Monêtier-les-Bains. Objective: La Vallouise via the Col de l’Eychauda and the tranquil chalets of Chambrain. Eight kilometres of motor road following the mountain stream L'Onde brings you to the alpine pastures of Jas Lacroix. Crossing the Col de l'Aup Martin, the highest pass on the route, is always a high point of the adventure, and the descent to the Pré de la Chaumette is equally exhilarating. To reach Lac de Vallonpierre, no fewer than three passes cut through the shale have to be negotiated with care. The last stage consists of a long descent into the valley of Valgaudemar where the path comes to La Chapelle en Valgaudemar, the culmination of the GR®.

This ascent leads through a cool, discreet forest atmosphere to an open landscape, exposed to the heat of the sun.In the village of Les Portes, turn right onto the path signposted "Lacs de Pétarel". Follow this rising path, and soon after, at a crossroads, turn left following the arrow shown on the panel. You cross a forest clearing and a scree, then arrive at and cross the Pétarel torrent. Then make your way through the forest, where the path meets another path leading to the village of Les Andrieux. Follow the signpost at this crossroads to "Lacs de Pétarel". Continue through the forest as far as a slope of low-lying vegetation, following it up through the winding turns. The path crosses the torrent. Go carefully in the last rocky sections. A large cairn signals your arrival at the lakes. Come back the same way.

A lovely family walk to discover the history Navette hamlet and the Buchardet waterfall.At the Fouronnière car park, cross the stone bridge, then a second wooden one at the end of a short climb, to get to the ruins of  Navette village. Cross Navette and continue on the path through the forest of Larch then Spruce, to rapidly reach the Buissard prairie. At its end, Buchardet waterfall reveals itself on the left. A small steep track enables you to better approach it.  Cross the torrent on the wooden bridge and follow on in to the Larch forest taking a stone-walled path (via clause) before redescending to cross the Navette torrent and pass to the other side of the valley. At the crossroads, take a right to return to the Fouronnière car park by an elevated path overlooking the Navette torrent.

This ascent in a forest setting enables you to benefit from the grandiose panorama of the Mount Olan massif.From  Andrieux car park at  the level of the fountain place  cross the main road in front of the small chapel and go towards the end of the village in the direction of the pine forest.. At the level of the entrance to the National Park indicated by signposts, climb the track going up to the left. At an altitude of 1 400 m, leave the track going towards la Chapelle-en-Valgaudemar and des Portes hamlet (a bit higher up) on the left, staying on the same path.  The ascent continues for some time in the forest which brightens up progressively.. Walk carefully through the last rocky  passages. A large cairn signals your arrival at the lakes. Return using the same itinerary.

Perched on an Alpine prairie, at the frontier with the high mountains, the Olan refuge provides a unique panorama on La Chapelle-en-Valgaudemar, the prestigious Olan cirque, the Cime du Vallon... A stopover for mountaineers and hikers: a mountain road to the Refuge des Souffles. Shared room and kitchen upstairs, running water and fountain. Meals by reservation. Access from La Chapelle-en-Valgaudemar in 4 hours; elevation: 1245 metres.

The Clot - Xavier-Blanc refuge, with 100 years rich in history, welcomes you in the shade of colossal trees for a relaxing break. Whether you are on the GR 54 footpath or out for a day's hike, you are sure to be charmed by this refuge, lulled by the murmur of the nearby Séveraisse mountain stream. Access in 15 minutes from Le Rif du Sap.

Nestled at the foot of the west face of the Sirac, this refuge was built in 2001 from wood and stone. Bright, spacious dormitories with duvets. Hot water showers and indoor toilets. From the refuge, there is a wide range of climbs and hikes: Sirac, Col and Pic de Vallonpierre, Col des Chevrettes, GR 54 footpath, Chabournéou refuge, Tour du Vieux Chaillol. Accessible in 2 hrs 30 mins from Gioberney car park, elevation 700 metres.

The ascent to the refuge from Villard Loubière has become a great hiking classic. Small dormitories with duvets, convivial dining room, hot showers and large equipped terraces. A stop on the GR54 footpath that should not be missed. Ideal starting point for the Pic de Turbat, with 3000m of easy access. A stop on the Tour de l'Oisans (GR54 footpath) that should not be missed. Snacks and refreshments possible. Access in 3 hours; elevation: 900 metres.

Chabournéou unveils a world of mountains and glaciers. This former refuge with its authentic atmosphere provides a fine alternative on the Vieux Chaillol Tour or GR54 footpath. Meals available all day. No picnic room. An authentic refuge in an Alpine setting at the foot of the north face of the Sirac. Easy to access along a path with the evocative name of "the minister's path", the refuge welcomes visitors for the skiing season in spring and for climbing and hiking during the summer. Access in 2 hrs 30 min from the Gioberney car park; 450-metre incline.

Located at 1797 m altitude, a 2-hour walk from the hamlet of Champhorent on an easy family trail up the Muande torrent. This is a place where mountaineers, hikers and mountain people can share their emotions. At the refuge you'll find everything you need for this special adventure, and the wardens are there to advise, inform and guide you in your choice of itinerary. At the foot of accessible glaciers and lakes (la Muande, les Rouies, les Sellettes, les Bêches, les Fétoules...), fauna, flora and herds are waiting for you, and everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, from the contemplative to the adventurous, from the climber to the walker, will find what they're looking for. You'll be able to sample organic and local produce, all in a creative and colorful cuisine. Every summer, a program of events is organized to offer concerts, shows and evening events for all to enjoy. Don't hesitate to follow our news online! Respect the legislation of the Parc National des Ecrins. The refuge will close for two years from July 15, 2025. This will give us the time we need to carry out a complete refurbishment that will enable us to welcome you even better.

Built at the sources of the White Drac, near the disused Champoléon cabin, this refuge with its stone roof offers tasty regional food at lunchtime and copious Alpine meals in the evening. The refuge is easy to access for families: 1 hr 30 mins from the Auberts car park (elevation: 350 m). Large number of hiking trails leaving from the refuge.

The gîte opend in july 2012. A total capacity of 24 persons, 4 roomes for couple et 4 rooms for 4 persons. Half pension or only the night, meal for the hiker, picknic. Situated in the national park of the Ecrins. 5 rooms with double beds and private bathrooms. The restaurant is open to everyone for lunch and afternoon snacks.

Set at the bottom of the Vénéon valley, it offers panoramic views of the Pilatte glacier and the most prestigious peaks in the Écrins. TEMPORARILY CLOSED The Temple Ecrins refuge was completely renovated in 2018. It offers 48 beds, made up of modules for 1 to 3 people and equipped with comforters. Bright and welcoming, the refuge is equipped with showers. A wood-burning stove allows you to spend pleasant evenings by the fire, while enjoying the generous home-cooked meals offered by the janitor. The large window in the dining room offers a breathtaking view of the typical Oisans alpine landscape. HIKING IN THE HEART OF THE ECRINS NATIONAL PARK The Écrins massif is an exceptional area, open to all, with a rare natural, cultural and landscape heritage. and landscapes. To protect these treasures, the heart of the park is marked with blue-white-red painted flags, where regulations must be respected. Please take note of them when preparing your hike to preserve this collective asset on the ecrins-parcnational.fr website.

Reach new heights, climb or simply hike with a mountain guide, a professional climber or a mountain leader. Follow in the footsteps of the greats, and enjoy yourself. Get away from it all! Whatever the altitude or slope, the mountains are within your reach. The mountain guide's office is staffed by mountain guides, climbing instructors and state-qualified mountain leaders. We offer a wide range of activities all year round, for all levels, from beginners to advanced, by the day or over several days, on your own, with your family or as a group. Winter activities: ski touring, off-piste skiing, winter outings, ice climbing... Summer activities: mountaineering, climbing, via ferrata... Training is a core concern for our team of guides, and the establishment of a mountaineering school in recent years will enable you to gain greater autonomy and safety at all levels of practice. The guides' office also offers all-inclusive multi-day tours such as Tour des Ailefroides, Tour de l'Olan, Tour des Rouies...

The Casset bridge is the oldest remaining bridge over the Sèveraisse that has not been washed away by floods. On the right bank of this magnificent "Roman" structure, the hamlet of Casset gets its name from the "casse" (large steep scree deposits at the foot of slopes) that surround it. This village, like that of Le Bourg, was partly covered by a landslide. As for Le Rif du Sap, an avalanche swept away the houses from the top of the hamlet in 1944. The hamlet of Le Clot, was flooded in 1928, and was totally abandoned in 1934 when a fire destroyed most of the dwellings.

The Casset bridge is the oldest remaining bridge over the Sèveraisse that has not been washed away by floods. On the right bank of this magnificent "Roman" structure, the hamlet of Casset gets its name from the "casse" (large steep scree deposits at the foot of slopes) that surround it. This village, like that of Le Bourg, was partly covered by a landslide. As for Le Rif du Sap, an avalanche swept away the houses from the top of the hamlet in 1944. The hamlet of Le Clot, was flooded in 1928, and was totally abandoned in 1934 when a fire destroyed most of the dwellings.

Along the itinerary, you will see the Combefroide and Casset waterfalls that are situated on the south facing slopes of the valley. The route also gives a good view to the east and the west of the Sèveraisse valley from the hamlet of Casset. Downstream, from the hamlet of Rif du Sap, a good example of a U-shaped valley is proof of shaping by the quaternary glaciers.

Along the itinerary, you will see the Combefroide and Casset waterfalls that are situated on the south facing slopes of the valley. The route also gives a good view to the east and the west of the Sèveraisse valley from the hamlet of Casset. Downstream, from the hamlet of Rif du Sap, a good example of a U-shaped valley is proof of shaping by the quaternary glaciers.

Valgaudemar! The sound of this name resonates in our ears. Some claim that it is in reference to the valley of Mary "Gaude Marie" or "Rejoice Mary!" It is more reasonable to think that it is in reference to Gaudemar, the last king of the Burgundians (524) a Germanic tribe that invaded this area in 406...Vallis Gaudemarii can be read in texts as early as 1284. Poetic licence, legends and imagination are often red herrings when it comes to researching the origins of names.

Valgaudemar! The sound of this name resonates in our ears. Some claim that it is in reference to the valley of Mary "Gaude Marie" or "Rejoice Mary!" It is more reasonable to think that it is in reference to Gaudemar, the last king of the Burgundians (524) a Germanic tribe that invaded this area in 406...Vallis Gaudemarii can be read in texts as early as 1284. Poetic licence, legends and imagination are often red herrings when it comes to researching the origins of names.

A few typical, old Valgaudemar houses can be seen in the hamlets of Casse, Le Bourg and Le Rif du Sap. A few thatched roofs, vaulted entrances to dwellings ("tounes"), and stone paving, are some fine examples of architecture that are worth saving. Cheaper and requiring less maintenance, sheet metal gradually replaced the thatch on the rooftops.

A few typical, old Valgaudemar houses can be seen in the hamlets of Casse, Le Bourg and Le Rif du Sap. A few thatched roofs, vaulted entrances to dwellings ("tounes"), and stone paving, are some fine examples of architecture that are worth saving. Cheaper and requiring less maintenance, sheet metal gradually replaced the thatch on the rooftops.

Hayfields surround the village of La Chapelle. Unfortunately, such natural hayfields, and their flowers and insects, are more and more frequently replaced by temporary hayfields, in other words, certain years they are sowed. These prairies are still watered by the irrigation canals that are well maintained by the users with the help of the National Park. You will see the floodway of the Grande Levée canal not far from the stream as it nears the Sèveraisse. The canals are of great importance for preserving wetland flora, such as alternate-leaved golden saxifrage or yellow star-of-Bethlehem, both of which are protected species.

Hayfields surround the village of La Chapelle. Unfortunately, such natural hayfields, and their flowers and insects, are more and more frequently replaced by temporary hayfields, in other words, certain years they are sowed. These prairies are still watered by the irrigation canals that are well maintained by the users with the help of the National Park. You will see the floodway of the Grande Levée canal not far from the stream as it nears the Sèveraisse. The canals are of great importance for preserving wetland flora, such as alternate-leaved golden saxifrage or yellow star-of-Bethlehem, both of which are protected species.

Local specialities, traditional cuisine, daily specials. Tourtons for sale.

Les Glaciers offers snacks such as crispy chicken, tourtons and ravioles, and camembert croquettes.

The talents of the chef and his assistant bring about the alliance of regional specialities ('tourtons', 'ravioles', 'donkey's ears'...) and sophisticated recipes (lamb tapenade, chicken with crawfish, Rossini fillet steak, etc.).

Discover a simple cuisine handed down from mother to daughter, and enjoy the slow-cooked dishes that need time to bring out all their flavour. Traditional specialities, including 'donkey's ears', 'tourtons', 'ravioles', pies and goat pot-au-feu.

Since 1965, the Gueydan family has been welcoming diners to the restaurant where culinary tradition is the watchword. Cuisine based on fresh regional produce, bringing out all the flavours of yesteryear. Specialities: 'ravioles' in honey, 'donkey's ears', mountain charcuterie, lamb, salted goat, roast ham, farmhouse cheeses... and homemade cakes! By reservation.

A bistro-style bar with a friendly atmosphere. Snacks on reservation, and ice cream in summer.

A large number of hikes leave from the refuge: Cascade de la Pisse (20 mins), Col de la Vénasque (3h), Col de Côte Longue (4h), the summit of Le Vieux Chaillol (3163 m), but also the unspoilt valleys of the Muande and Mal Cros! A little paradise only a 1 hr 30 min walk away! Elevation 345 metres.

Huguette welcomes you to Champoléon, the gentle valley, to savour local specialities and produce from Gondoins farm: tourton fritters, local lamb, cheeses... Don't forget to reserve so you can enjoy the atmosphere of this typical inn.

Homemade cuisine, renewed at each meal, where the blend of aromas and savours from here and elsewhere always creates a new alchemy. Recipes inspired by traditional local dishes, reviving the forgotten recipes of our grandmothers...

The Auberge des Ecrins is a great place to meet up in the Champoléon valley. Here regional and world cuisine is made using high-quality local produce for maximum creativity and the pleasure of the tastebuds. Live concerts and evening events too.

Perched on an Alpine prairie, at the frontier with the high mountains, the Olan refuge provides a unique panorama on La Chapelle-en-Valgaudemar, the prestigious Olan cirque, the Cime du Vallon... A stopover for mountaineers and hikers: a mountain road to the Refuge des Souffles. Shared room and kitchen upstairs, running water and fountain. Meals by reservation. Access from La Chapelle-en-Valgaudemar in 4 hours; elevation: 1245 metres.

Situated at an altitude of 2350 m, this large building constructed in 1957 was carried away by an avalanche two years later. A witness to this is a concrete slab below the refuge. Rebuilt in 1966, it was definitively extended in 1978 with a capacity of 54 places. A stage of the Tour de l'Oisans (GR 54), it welcomes hikers in the summer season and provides a shelter in the winter; it belongs to the Club Alpin Français.

Situated at an altitude of 2350 m, this large building constructed in 1957 was carried away by an avalanche two years later. A witness to this is a concrete slab below the refuge. Rebuilt in 1966, it was definitively extended in 1978 with a capacity of 54 places. A stage of the Tour de l'Oisans (GR 54), it welcomes hikers in the summer season and provides a shelter in the winter; it belongs to the Club Alpin Français.

What a strange idea to build this mountain refuge below the road leading to Gioberney, at an altitude of "only" 1397 m. In fact, it was already there more than a century ago, long before the road was built. This simple, sturdy building belonged to the Valgodemar Mining Company that operated in the area extracting copper and lead. When the business closed, the Club Alpin Français bought the building and named it after Xavier Blanc, in recognition of one of the founder members of the CAF, senator of the Hautes Alpes.

What a strange idea to build this mountain refuge below the road leading to Gioberney, at an altitude of "only" 1397 m. In fact, it was already there more than a century ago, long before the road was built. This simple, sturdy building belonged to the Valgodemar Mining Company that operated in the area extracting copper and lead. When the business closed, the Club Alpin Français bought the building and named it after Xavier Blanc, in recognition of one of the founder members of the CAF, senator of the Hautes Alpes.

The Clot - Xavier-Blanc refuge, with 100 years rich in history, welcomes you in the shade of colossal trees for a relaxing break. Whether you are on the GR 54 footpath or out for a day's hike, you are sure to be charmed by this refuge, lulled by the murmur of the nearby Séveraisse mountain stream. Access in 15 minutes from Le Rif du Sap.

The construction of the chalet-hôtel at Gioberney started during the Second World War as part of a youth project. It enabled some young people the possibility of escaping obligatory work service in Germany (STO). The stones for the building were taken on the spot, cut and put together using cement mortar. At that time the road to Gioberney did not yet exist, and would only be built in 1963. You had to go up on foot, for « tired intellectuals », it was possible to be helped by a mule in order to reach the refuge. There was not much frequentation until the construction of the road... 

The construction of the chalet-hôtel at Gioberney started during the Second World War as part of a youth project. It enabled some young people the possibility of escaping obligatory work service in Germany (STO). The stones for the building were taken on the spot, cut and put together using cement mortar. At that time the road to Gioberney did not yet exist, and would only be built in 1963. You had to go up on foot, for « tired intellectuals », it was possible to be helped by a mule in order to reach the refuge. There was not much frequentation until the construction of the road... 

During the summer of 1923, the guide Célestin Bernard took charge of the construction of the refuge at Font Turbat. Several great mountaineering names are associated with it like Guery, Ripert, Frendo, Fourastier, Boell, who came to explore the mountains at Valjouffrey. In 1934, Devies and Gervasutti traced a historic itinerary in the North-West face of the Pic de l'Olan. 22 years later, the direct Couzy-Desmaison (ED) was opened to the left of the previous one, surmounting the steepest part of the face. The construction of the refuge As it stands now dates from 1962. It was extended and renovated in 1996-1997.

Nestled at the foot of the west face of the Sirac, this refuge was built in 2001 from wood and stone. Bright, spacious dormitories with duvets. Hot water showers and indoor toilets. From the refuge, there is a wide range of climbs and hikes: Sirac, Col and Pic de Vallonpierre, Col des Chevrettes, GR 54 footpath, Chabournéou refuge, Tour du Vieux Chaillol. Accessible in 2 hrs 30 mins from Gioberney car park, elevation 700 metres.