Dormillouse
Dormillouse
Dormillouse , a timeless village in the heart of the Écrins
At an altitude of 1,800 m, Dormillouse is the only village inhabited year-round in the Écrins National Park. Accessible only on foot, it offers a rare immersion in a preserved hamlet, between wild nature, Vaudois history and pastoral life.
At an altitude of 1,800 m, Dormillouse is the only village inhabited year-round in the Écrins National Park. Accessible only on foot, it offers a rare immersion in a preserved hamlet, between wild nature, Vaudois history and pastoral life.
A lively and heritage village
In summer, it is about 1 hour walk (350 m D+) from the car park at the end of the D238, in the Freissinières valley. The path runs along the Biaysse waterfalls in a cool and wooded atmosphere.
On site, you will meet:
- The Protestant church (1758), converted after a delightful anecdote from the local priest;
- The old school, now a stopover cottage;
- The house of Félix Neff, a key figure in the mountainous intellectual awakening in the nineteenth century;
- Bread ovens, a water mill, a restored hydroelectric turbine;
- Irrigation canals and mining remains around the Fangeas lake.
- Marmots, sheep in the summer pastures, edelweiss and Alpine cephalaria complete the postcard.
What to do around it?
Reach the Faravel and Palluel lakes on foot from the hamlet: turquoise waters, alpine setting, silence guaranteed.
Practical information
Accommodation: stopover gîte or bivouac (authorised areas). Reservation recommended.
Ideal period: June to September (maximum sunshine).
Equipment: hiking boots, water, IGN map, weather caution.
📸 #Dormillouse – To live with your legs… and the heart.
In winter
Snowshoeing with a mountain guide recommended (avalanche sector).
ACCESS SUMMER
Go to the end of the D238, then leave your vehicle and take the marked path. Allow 1 hour of walking for 350 m of elevation gain.
WINTER ACCESS
The accompaniment of a mid-mountain guide is strongly recommended, as the route crosses slopes prone to avalanches.
