Ski hiking
The bellE breakaway
Want to escape the crowds and carve your own line? The Pays des Écrins is the perfect spot for ski touring in the Alps: larch trees, ridges, customizable elevation gain… and a true mountain spirit.
Two resorts—Pelvoux-Vallouise and Puy Saint Vincent—get you off to a great start, hassle-free.
Our must-haves 7 hiking ideas
- Sentier des Lutins (Vallouise → Puy, 4.3 km, easy, 1h–1h30)
A fun walk in the forest, accessible to all, punctuated by little elves and views of the valley. Departure near the Pont de Gérendoine. Slightly uphill loop through undergrowth and clearings, with explanatory panels and rest areas. Ideal for a family warm-up. - Pré Rouge + Rocher Noir ridge (Puy Saint-Vincent, 600–1,000 m elevation gain, medium to committed, variable 3h–6h)
A demanding high-altitude course to work on the difference in altitude with wide panoramas of the Écrins. Climb from the Puy Saint-Vincent sector towards Pré Rouge, then extend to the Crête du Rocher Noir. Terrain often used for ski touring and summer hiking; sometimes steep portions, good physical condition recommended. - Les Têtes (Puy Saint-Vincent, ~450 m elevation gain, easy, 2h–3h)
Short and panoramic ascent, perfect for half a day. Departure from the Pousterle plateau. Well-marked trail to Les Têtes (approx. 2,044 m) with 360° views of the valley and surrounding peaks. Loop possible; It is best to follow the recommended direction to avoid steep climbs at the end of the route. - Tête des Raisins (Freissinières, ~1,240 m elevation gain, fairly difficult, 4h30–6h round trip)
Demanding grand ascent with vast views of the valley and peaks. Departure from the outskirts of Freissinières (Testa Moute valley or equivalent access). Sustained climb with sections sometimes off trail and tricky orientation. Requires good stamina and experience. Summit at 2,655 m with extensive panorama; Possibility of take-off for paragliding depending on conditions. - La Blanche (Pelvoux / Vallouise-Pelvoux, ~700 m elevation gain, medium, full day)
Mountain route accessible by hiking or ski touring, with beautiful views from the ridge. Departure from the summit of the Crête chairlift. We follow the ridge towards La Blanche (2,953 m), avoiding certain forks. Return possible by the lifts or descent. In winter, reliable outing with generally stable conditions. - Peyre-Eyraute / Pic de Peyre Eyraute (Saint-Martin-de-Queyrières, ~1,700 m elevation gain, difficult to very difficult, 5h–7h)
Long and steep alpine hike, with sometimes technical passages and wide views. Access via the nearby valleys, climb to the Pic de Peyre Eyraute (2,903 m) via routes such as the Crête de Serre Chapelle. Steep elevation, aerial portions and sustained effort. Reserved for experienced hikers.
Pelvoux-Vallouise
The good deal with the hiking ticket
Perfect for those who love challenging climbs. With the ski touring pass, you’ll take two chairlifts and start your hike at 2,300 m. Head toward La Blanche (2,953 m) via the Croix du Chastellet: a spectacular alpine route best tackled with a high-mountain guide. The ski area closes at 4:30 p.m. for grooming. Always make sure you’re properly equipped: avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe… And if you’re a beginner? A guide is required!
Puy Saint Vincent
Quiet or invigorating, it’s up to you
Want to give it a try? The Les Têtes trail is the perfect place to start: a 450-meter elevation gain, surrounded by larch trees, and offering views of Pelvoux. The snow is often excellent, the trail is marked, and a relaxed atmosphere is guaranteed.
Try the Pré Rouge: 600 to 1,000 m of elevation gain on a steady climb through the woods. Looking for something more challenging?
Some ideas for outings
Our selection of activitiesSki
