About
Hautes-Alpes is a mountainous department in southeastern France, part of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Its prefecture is Gap, and the department is known for its high Alpine scenery, where many of the country's highest peaks rise above wide valleys and mountain villages.
Landscapes and the outdoors
The landscape is the main reason to come. Part of the Écrins National Park lies within the department, offering protected high country of glaciers, lakes and alpine meadows. Visitors come for a range of activities, including:
- Hiking on marked trails through the mountains and valleys
- Skiing in the winter months
- Mountaineering for those with the experience and equipment for higher routes
Planning a visit
Hautes-Alpes suits travellers who want to spend their days outdoors rather than in cities. Gap, the prefecture, serves as a practical base with services and transport links, while smaller towns and villages across the department give quieter places to stay close to the trails. Because the terrain is steep and weather at altitude can change quickly, it is worth checking conditions before setting out and choosing routes that match your fitness and experience.
Whether you plan a summer walking holiday or a winter trip on the slopes, Hautes-Alpes offers a mountain setting that is a reliable choice for anyone drawn to the French Alps.
