From the valley or on the slopes of the Grandes Rousses, you will see its church and the roofs of its buildings, as if suspended in the air. This village seems mysteriously out of reach. But how do you get there? Here, there are no enchanted portals or incantations to cast. A simple road, a little secret certainly, a little daring too, will lead you to the nest of Villard-Notre-Dame.
Once you arrive, you'll discover much more than just isolated dwellings. At the foot of the majestic Grand Renaud peak in the Écrins massif, Villard-Notre-Dame offers a breathtaking panorama. From this natural vantage point, the Grandes Rousses and the Romanche and Vénéon valleys stretch as far as the eye can see. In summer, the village comes alive with festivities and traditions. Villard-Notre-Dame is also a journey into the past. Its church bears witness to the history of this place, which was home to up to 316 souls in the early XNUMXth century, living almost entirely off farming. Another special feature of Villard-Notre-Dame is the Gardette mine, which was in operation in the XNUMXth century, and its mineralogical treasure trove: its quartz crystals are renowned for their great purity.
Top 5
The essentials of Villard-Notre-Dame
A gem perched on a piece of Oisans, Villard-Notre-Dame is a place to explore. Discover the 5 things not to miss in this timeless nest where the high mountains take root, deep and timeless.
1
Take the scenic route from Villard-Notre-Dame
Suspended above the void, dotted with black tunnels dug into the mountainside, this road promises thrills and magnificent landscapes. Cyclists, motorcyclists, and adventurers, dare to climb it: it's an experience to be lived, for an unforgettable memory.
2
Historic path of Gardette
Historic path once used by muleteers to reach Villard-Notre-Dame, this route offers a gradual climb through the cool undergrowth and crosses the remarkable site of the old Gardette mines.
3
Hike to the Refuge des Sources
The small communal refuge of Les Sources is located at 2 m, overlooking the torrent of Le Vallon and on the access path to the summit of Le Rochail, which rises to 270 m. The hike to get there is magnificent, with waterfalls, streams and panoramic views of the Écrins.
4
Visit the Terra Rêve workshop
Marie-Claude Gallard is a sculptor inspired by the legendary tales of Oisans. Her preferred materials: earth, wood, stone, bone, and plaster. Visit her studio to discover her world and her "geopoetic" approach to the region.
5
Admire the church of Notre-Dame de l'Assomption
Overlooking the village square and visible from part of the Oisans region, the church boasts sober, elegant architecture. The portal is the oldest part of the building, dating from the late XNUMXth century. Its XNUMXth-century statuette of Sainte-Anne is a listed monument.
Highlights
In and around Villard-Notre-Dame
Tourist information
Bourg-d'oisans Tourist Office
Located in the heart of the town, the Office welcomes an international clientele all year round. It has free WIFI access 24/24.