Guide to Hautes-Alpes & Property in Department 05

Hautes-Alpes is a department located in the southeastern region of France, forming part of the larger Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Established in 1790 during the French Revolution, it is one of the original 83 departments of France. The department is located in the southeastern part of the former province of Dauphiné and the northern region of Provence and is surrounded by other departments of France, including Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Drôme, Isère, and Savoie. It shares its eastern borders with Italy's Metropolitan City of Turin and the province of Cuneo, located in the Piedmont region. As the name suggests, Hautes-Alpes is situated in the majestic Alps mountain range, with an average elevation of over 1000 meters and the highest point reaching over 4000 meters. The department is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and mountain ranges, glistening lakes and verdant valleys. It has only three significant towns, namely Gap, Briançon, and Embrun, each offering its unique charm and Alpine feel.

Alpine Towns and Villages

Gap, the capital of the Hautes-Alpes department, is known for its vibrant markets and charming old town. Embrun was the sub-prefecture until 1926, and Saint-Véran, a beautiful village in Hautes-Alpes, is the third-highest commune in Europe.

In contrast, Briançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, impresses visitors with its Vauban fortifications and high-altitude appeal. The region also features picturesque villages such as Embrun, which overlooks Lake Serre-Ponçon, and La Grave, renowned for its incredible views of the La Meije glacier.

Economy and Local Delicacies

The economy of Hautes-Alpes primarily revolves around tourism, agriculture, and small-scale artisan businesses. Winter sports are a major attraction, with ski resorts like Serre Chevalier and Montgenèvre drawing visitors from around the globe. During the summer months, activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and paragliding take full advantage of the mountainous terrain. In the lower valleys, agriculture flourishes, producing high-quality cheeses and honey. Local cuisine is hearty and includes dishes like tartiflette, gratin dauphinois, and diots (savoury pork sausages). While Hautes-Alpes is not a prominent wine region, it does feature some vineyards that produce unique mountain wines, ideal for pairing with the local specialities.

Adventure Awaits in Nature

For nature enthusiasts, Hautes-Alpes provides endless activities, ranging from exploring Écrins National Park to enjoying water sports on the Durance River. With its stunning landscapes and opportunities for outdoor adventure, Hautes-Alpes is an excellent destination for anyone eager to experience the beauty and fun of the French Alps.

Key Information about Hautes-Alpes

• Main City/Prefecture: Gap  
• Nearest Airport: Grenoble Alpes-Isère Airport or Marseille-Provence Airport
• Population: Around 142,000 (as of the latest census)  
• Area: 5,548 sq. kilometres and 2,142 sq. miles  
• Landmark: Écrins National Park, a stunning protected area with glaciers, alpine peaks, and diverse wildlife.  
• Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 2.5 million, drawn by its ski resorts like Serre Chevalier, hiking trails and unspoiled natural beauty.

If you are looking for a property in Hautes-Alpes, please get in touch to discuss your search criteria.