Top 10 things to do around Serre-Ponçon, in the heart of the Hautes-Alpes region
An invitation to travel between lake and mountains
Serre-Ponçon Lake, located in the heart of the Hautes-Alpes region, is a rich tourist area steeped in history, offering a multitude of outdoor activities.
Close to the Ecrins National Park, it's a unique place where nature takes center stage and where you can recharge your batteries.
With its spectacular natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage and pronounced local terroir, the Hautes-Alpes region is an invitation to escape.
Discover new horizons at the gateway to the Durance Valley.
We've put together a list of our favorite places to visit, which are sure to become your favorites.
01. The Serre-Ponçon Dam
An exceptional structure built between 1955 and 1960, it is impressive in its size: 123 metres high, 600 metres wide and 650 metres thick.
02. St Michel Chapel
Visible from the Sunêlia La Presqu'île campsite, this is the only remnant of the lake that remained after the flooding of Lake Serre-Ponçon in 1961.
Built in the 11th century, the water rises to the foot of the small island that supports the building at a tourist level of 780m.
03. The Chanteloube Viaduct
This is one of the main engineering structures built during the construction of a railway line that was to link Grenoble to Barcelonnette.
Begun in 1910, the project was finally abandoned in 1934 in favour of the Veynes/Briançon line.
During the summer, the structure is submerged by the waters of the lake because it is 772 metres high.
05. Les Demoiselles coiffées (The Hooded Maidens)
A geological phenomenon resulting from rainwater runoff eroding sedimentary rock, leaving only the limestone cap, thus forming what are known as fairy chimneys.
06. Pic du Morgon
This mountain, rising to an altitude of 2,310 metres, overlooks Lake Serre-Ponçon. For hiking enthusiasts, starting from the Grand Clos car park, this climb is a must-do that is well worth the detour!
As you progress on this journey, you will be captivated by the beauty of the varied landscapes, crossing the great cirque and climbing towards the summit. You are sure to encounter marmots along the way.
After your efforts, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama overlooking Lake Serre-Ponçon!
07. Les Aiguilles de Chabrières
Visible from the campsite, this site offers a wide variety of hiking trails. A real excursion to plan for half a day.
Accessible from the Réallon resort on foot or by chairlift, it is also a real playground for cross-country mountain bikers.
08. Lake Saint Apollinaire
‘One can be a poet in all areas: all one needs is to be adventurous and go out exploring.’ Guillaume Apollinaire
As the poet suggests, this bucolic paradise is well worth a visit.
Located at the foot of the Aiguilles de Chabrières, this lake, formed by melting glaciers, will transcend you with its beauty, brilliance and verdant colours.
09. Embrun, the Little Nice of the Alps
This former medieval village, classified as a Town of Art and History, is well worth a visit. Stroll through the charming, lively streets of the town centre.
Also discover:
The historic town centre and its local market on Wednesday and Saturday mornings.
Notre-Dame du Réal Cathedral, listed as a Historic Monument.
The Sous le Roc footpath.
10. Boscodon Abbey
This Romanesque masterpiece was built in the 12th century. The abbey was initially affiliated with the Chalaisian monastic order, then became Benedictine in the 15th century.
It was one of the largest abbeys in the region during the Middle Ages and was home to monks.
Today, the abbey church is open every day. The cloister, museum and adjoining rooms are also open to the public.