La Meije
La Grave is located on the border of the Isère and Hautes-Alpes regions, and is 10 km below the Col du Lautaret, which is listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France. La Meije, dominating over the village to the south, is part of the reason for why it’s considered one of the most beautiful villages in France. It’s quite spectacular!
La Grave, and its five hamlets (Les Fréaux, Le Chazelet, Les Terrasses, Ventelon and Les Hières), are dotted all along the sloping stretch on the edge of the heart of Écrins National Park.
There are no ski lifts spoiling the scenery in La Grave, but rather the Glaciers de la Meije cable cars and a few button lifts.
There’s no luxury accommodation, but rather comfortable hotels.
There isn’t a massive holiday village, but rather family houses and a few gites.
There’s no shopping centre, but rather traditional local shops.
Activities
In Winter…
Skiing is for those in the know. Off-piste skiing, which is for experienced skiers only, is world-renowned here. Skiing is also possible in the village resort of Le Chazelet – tucked away on a southern flank, with easily accessible slopes. Families love it here!
and In summer!
This mountaineering hotspot is renowned for its numerous itineraries, featuring the most famous one of all: the climb to the Grand Pic de la Meije, 3,982 m above ground.
Visitors also come to ice climb, to use the Via Ferrata (in Fréaux), to hike in Écrins National Park (GR50 and GR54), to mountain bike from Lautaret to the Plateau d’Emparis, or to take on the freeride area in La Meije.
What to see and Do
La Grave: One of the Most beautiful villages in France
Take a detour on your way between the Alpes du Nord and the Alpes du Sud to see just why La Grave was awarded this label. It’s worth the trip! There’s the concentrated settlement, which is typical of the Oisans region, the Romano-Lombard style church, a unique cemetery, all with the majestic La Meije serving as a backdrop. Even the school playground seems like something from a dream once you’ve seen the view schoolchildren have all year round. It’s so easy to lose oneself among the ancient alleys and lanes, constantly turning round around to take another look at the breathtaking landscape. You can’t go to La Grave without stopping to take a look.
THE European hotspot for off-piste skiing!
La Grave is known around the world for its off-piste, ungroomed skiing area. It’s just one cable car ride away! Once you’re at the bottom of the glacier, you’ll find high-quality untouched snow, thanks to its northern exposure. It’s a real treat for skiers! All types of skiers love to ski and compete on these remarkable slopes during the Derby de La Meije, which is 2150 m drop with no defined route!
Do you fancy hiking in the foothills of glaciers?
How can you visit La Grave without going for a hike? This is the ideal playground for hikers, with all the diversity in terrain and atmospheres that you can only find in the mountains.
To the north, look towards La Meije and Écrins National Park for itineraries that will take you to peaks and glaciers. To the south, hike to the Massif des Grandes Rousses, with its expanses of floral Alpine pastures, its easily accessible lakes, and its lush, green valleys.
