Oisans covers part of the Arves massif which has the particularity – to a lesser extent compared to the Grandes Rousses massif – of still having a few small glaciers. It is also often cited, wrongly, in the Grandes Rousses chain.
With peaks reaching 3514 m above sea level for the highest point (the Aiguilles d'Arves), the Arves massif has several winter sports resorts. It is also a privileged playground for summer activities such as hiking or mountain biking.
Easy hikes in the Arves massif
The hiking routes in the Arves massif are numerous. Although its peaks are high, it is possible to take beautiful walks even when you are a beginner walker.
For example, you can take advantage of the Mini-walk of Very City, whose route was set up by the Maison Départementale des Alpages. It is a 20-minute interactive circuit, materialized by QR codes and which can be followed on your smartphone. Thus, you can discover with your family the geographical, environmental and heritage points of interest, along a one-kilometer route.
A little longer, the Prelong walk offers you a spectacular view of la Meije and the Cirque de la Salse. Here too, QR codes are there to guide your visit, which should not last more than an hour, even for beginner walkers.
Mountain huts in the heart of nature
Passing through these mountain huts will be an opportunity to observe the local fauna and flora: marmots, larks, golden eagles and even vultures! You can also go and meet the shepherds of the area.
The Mouterres refuge, meanwhile, is located on an alpine pasture where sheep, chamois and vultures live side by side. This refuge is also accessible by taking the GR® 54 from Le Chazelet or Besse in Oisans. And, the icing on the cake, you will regain your strength with the guardian's delicious traditional cuisine, such as crozets de Mizoën or the Farcis of Oisans.
