L’Argentière-la-Bessée The gateway to the Pays des Écrins
Located at an altitude of 1,000 m, at the confluence of the Durance, Vallouise and Fournel rivers, L’Argentière-La-Bessée is the ideal gateway to explore the Pays des Écrins. Only a few hours by train from Marseille, the small station of “L’Argentière-Les Écrins” marks the immediate beginning of your adventure. As soon as you set foot on the platform, put on your trainers or grab your paddle: here, the activities follow one another naturally.
In L’Argentière-la-Bessée, water is the unmissable star. The world-renowned whitewater stadium attracts amateurs and experts to learn about rafting or kayak down a memorable slalom. Sensations guaranteed, freshness included!
Looking for panoramas? Take the trails to the Fournel valley, where France’s largest reserve of blue thistle is hidden, or opt for an aerial via ferrata with breathtaking views. On the adrenaline side, try the fun canyons for a refreshing immersion in the heart of the torrents.
For an unusual journey underground, head to the historic silver mine, where you literally dive into the region’s mining past. Finally, hop on your mountain bike and discover a varied network of marked loops starting directly from the village.
When winter comes, the scenery changes: the waterfalls frozen by the cold offer a spectacular playground for climbers from all over the world, especially on the occasion of the Ice Climbing Écrins, a major ice climbingevent in Europe.
In just a few square kilometres, L’Argentière-La-Bessée condenses the essentials of adventure, sport and nature. Whether you are looking for thrills or simply an escape, this corner of the Écrins promises you life-size memories.
Thibaut BLAIS
From ice climbing to snowy trails
In L’Argentière-la-Bessée, winter changes the landscape: the waterfalls become ice walls and make the valley a recognized spot for ice climbing. The Ice Climbing Écrins, an unmissable annual event in the discipline, brings together beginners and experts for initiations and technical courses. The routes evolve with the conditions; Supervision by a guide is strongly recommended to evolve safely.
For those who prefer walking, the snowy trails to the Fournel valley can be explored on snowshoes or on foot. These walks offer quick access to nature, in a calm and enclosed atmosphere. It is recommended to check the weather conditions and bring the appropriate equipment.
Animations and events that punctuate your seasons
The calendar of activities and events changes with the seasons, check them regularly for updates.
ANIMATION
ÉVÉNEMENTS
ACTIVITÉS
CULTURE ET PATRIMOINE
ANIMATION
L'Argentière-la-Bessée
From 7 December to 4 June 2026
Parcours en réalité augmentée : Tomber de “eau”, championnat du monde de descente de conduites forcées
Discover the “Waterfall” fun trail – The World Penstock Descent Championship – and…
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