Part of the Écrins National Park, Villar-d'Arêne nestles in a high mountain setting, cradled by legendary peaks such as la MeijeUp there, between powdery peaks, sparkling glaciers and alpine traditions, this high-altitude village promises you a change of scenery and 100% alpine outdoor activities.
Situated at an altitude of 1 m, Villar-d'Arêne stands proudly in the upper Romanche valley. Once known as Arènes Supérieures by the Romans, the Faranchins (inhabitants of Villar-d'Arêne) have managed to preserve their heritage linked to a pastoral past. The village and its characterful hamlets, Pied du Col and Les Cours, offer a traditional setting with stone houses, chapels, fountains, bread ovens and old-fashioned mills that you'll want to explore.
Top 5
The essentials of Villar-d'Arêne
Surrounded by the peaks of the Écrins and the green alpine pastures, this village offers you a high mountain experience. Here is our selection of 5 treasures to discover during your visit to Villar-d'Arêne.
1
Du Col du Lautaret, push on to Galibier
Made famous by the Tour de France, the Col du Lautaret, in Villar-d'Arêne, is the sublime passage on the road to Italy. By car, bicycle, motorbike or on foot, you will be forced to stop there so exceptional is the view of the mountains. A little higher, the panorama of the legendary Col du Galibier will also make your head spin.
2
The Lautaret Garden
Perched at an altitude of 2 metres in Villar-d'Arêne, this exceptional botanical garden, created in 100, is home to over 1899 species of mountain plants from all over the world. With a breathtaking view of the glaciers of la Meije, it is also a recognised centre for scientific research.
3
Nordic area of the country of the Meije
Experience the Nordic adventure in a high mountain setting, facing the Meije : 20 km of cross-country ski trails, 11 km of snowshoe trails, an ice rink, and more. A winter paradise for snow lovers and those who love escape.
4
Lake Arsine in the Écrins National Park
The hike to Lac d'Arsine, starting from Villard-d'Arêne, offers an enchanting setting. The trail follows the waters of the Romanche, then gets lost in the mountain pastures, until the final climb in a mineral universe that reveals the lake and its glacier. A natural spectacle in the Écrins National Park that is absolutely not to be missed.
5
Arsine via ferrata
On the foothills of the MeijeThis via ferrata is located at the gateway to the Écrins National Park. Shaded during the summer, it promises to be an accessible experience. However, a few aerial and sporty sections will appeal to climbers looking for a bit of a challenge.
Highlights
in Villar-d'Arêne
Hautes Vallées Tourist Office
Tourist Information Office of La Grave
The Hautes Vallées Tourist Information Office – tourist office La Grave, is happy to welcome you throughout the year to provide you with information and facilitate your stay in the villages of La Grave and Villar d'Arène.