Towering peaks, ski resorts, alpine lakes, and crystal-clear skies define Hautes-Alpes, one of France’s most mountainous and unspoiled departments. It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering year-round opportunities for skiing, hiking, paragliding, and climbing—yet with a quiet, authentic atmosphere far from the glitz of the larger Alpine regions.

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The capital is Gap, a sun-filled town with a relaxed pace of life and one of the best climates in France, combining alpine coolness with Mediterranean sunshine. Other important towns include Briançon, the highest city in France, noted for its UNESCO-listed Vauban fortifications and lively winter sports scene; Embrun, set above the turquoise Lac de Serre-Ponçon; and Veynes, a gateway to hiking routes and valleys.

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Highlights of the department include the Écrins National Park, a vast wilderness of glaciers and jagged peaks, the family-friendly resorts of Orcières-Merlette and Les Orres, and the stunning man-made Lac de Serre-Ponçon, popular for water sports and scenic drives. Quaint alpine villages, mountain passes like the Col d’Izoard, and wildflower meadows complete the breathtaking panorama.

Property in Hautes-Alpes is a mix of traditional chalets, stone houses, and modern ski apartments.

 

You’ll also find renovated barns in secluded valleys and village homes with panoramic views. Whether you're dreaming of a winter hideaway, a rental investment, or a quiet life close to nature, this department offers some of the most scenic real estate in France.