★ 3 · last edited Aug 13, 2020
Hautes-Alpes
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Sparsely populated and nestled in the mountains, the Hautes-Alpes combine nature (Queyras, Écrins...), heritage (Briançon, Fort Queyras, etc.), and year-round outdoor activities with numerous ski resorts. In short, a paradise for ecotourism enthusiasts.
Overview of the Hautes-Alpes
Key facts
- Localisation:
- Heure locale:
- Code département: 05.
- Départements limitrophes:
- Préfecture: Gap.
- Sous-préfectures: Briançon.
- Nombre de communes: 167.
- Population: 141,284 inhabitants (2017).
- Superficie: 5,549 km².
- Densité: 25 inhabitants/km².
- Point le plus haut: Barre des Écrins (4,102 m).
- Point le plus bas: Ribiers (470 m).
- Littoral: 0 km, no coastline.
- Intérêts (on ): Nature ; Culture / ; Relaxation-holidays
- Site internet: http://www.hautes-alpes.net
History of the Hautes-Alpes
Geography and environment
Culture and economy
What to see in the Hautes-Alpes
Sparsely populated and nestled in the mountains, the Hautes-Alpes combine nature (Queyras, Écrins...), heritage (Briançon, Fort Queyras, etc.), and year-round outdoor activities with numerous ski resorts. In short, a paradise for ecotourism enthusiasts.
What to do in the Hautes-Alpes
Climate and weather
Given its average altitude, the department has a mountain climate—cold (even very cold in the highest areas) and fairly dry throughout the year. However, sunshine is abundant, and day/night temperature differences are significant. While winters can be harsh, summers remain very pleasant without excessive temperatures.