Attractions and Places To See around Vars - Top 10

Vars offers a rich history, particularly within its traditional hamlets. You can explore the authentic mountain traditions and architecture of Saint-Marcellin, Sainte-Marie, and Sainte-Catherine. The ruins of the Château de Rosières, originally an 11th-century rural estate, were fortified in the 15th century and now operate as a bed and breakfast. Additionally, the Protestant Church in Saint-Marcellin, built in the 19th century, now hosts exhibitions, and the Napoleon Refuge along the road to Col de Vars holds historical significance.

Yes, Vars is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The Val d'Escreins Nature Reserve, often called 'Little Canada,' is rich in flora and fauna, offering walks along the Rif Bel. The Vereux Diversion of the Saône is another natural feature. You can also visit Col de Vars, a famous mountain pass with panoramic views, or hike to Lac de Peyrol, a high-altitude lake. The Sentier des Arbres Remarquables allows you to discover centuries-old trees, and the Eyssina Ridge provides majestic rocky landscapes.

In summer, the ski slopes transform into excellent trails for hiking and mountain biking, leading to the Col de Vars or high-altitude lakes. You can also enjoy unique experiences like dog sledding or cani-rando (hiking with dogs) with Husky teams. For those interested in walking, there are numerous paths through larch forests and flower-filled mountain pastures. Explore hiking routes around Vars here: Hiking around Vars.

Vars is a major winter sports resort, part of the Vars/Risoul ski area (La Forêt Blanche). It offers extensive skiing with 57 ski lifts and 104 runs, a permanent speed-skiing stadium, and 45 km of Nordic ski runs. You can also try fatbiking on snowy trails or enjoy dog sledding. A temporary ice cave is also a unique winter attraction for families.

Many attractions in Vars are suitable for families. The Val d'Escreins Nature Reserve offers easy walks and barbecue spots. The temporary ice cave is a unique experience for all ages. Exploring the historic hamlets and discovering the large wood carvings, including the 6-meter-tall skier Marcellin, can also be enjoyable for families. The Pont de Pierre of Gray is also considered family-friendly.

For unique cultural experiences, visit the traditional Village Bread Oven, still lit for summer festivities, or discover the four wooden fountains in Saint-Marcellin, dating back to the last century. The large wood carvings displayed at the edge of the village, depicting animals and local figures, are also a charming local feature. Don't miss the local markets to meet producers and experience regional flavors.

The Col de Vars, at an altitude of 2109m, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Ubaye and Queyras valleys. The Eyssina Ridge provides stunning landscapes, including distant views of Lac de Serre-Ponçon. The hamlets of Sainte-Marie and Sainte-Catherine also offer picturesque views over the Durance valley and sunny vistas.

Vars offers distinct experiences depending on the season. Winter is ideal for snow sports like skiing, fatbiking, and dog sledding. Summer transforms the area into a paradise for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the vibrant flower-filled mountain pastures. The spring and autumn seasons offer milder weather for exploring historical sites and enjoying the changing landscapes.

Yes, there are several running trails available. For example, you can find a 'Pont de Pierre of Gray – Gray loop from Arc-lès-Gray' which is a more difficult route, or moderate loops from Bouhans-et-Feurg and Champlitte. You can find more running routes here: Running Trails around Vars.

Absolutely. Vars is a popular area for road cycling, especially with the famous Col de Vars being part of the 'Route des Grandes Alpes.' You can find routes like the 'Bridge over the Salon – Stone bridge over the Salon loop from Chargey-lès-Gray' or the 'Pont de Pierre of Gray – Apremont Dam Footbridge loop from Nantilly.' Discover more road cycling routes here: Road Cycling Routes around Vars.

Gray is a historic town with an eventful past. Visitors can admire its remarkable Renaissance town hall, completed in 1568 with a distinctive glazed tile roof. The town also features a minor cathedral, ruins of a castle, and pleasant promenades along the Saône river. It's a great place to explore history and enjoy local amenities.

The Pont de Pierre of Gray is a magnificent stone bridge built in 1647, serving as the main entrance to the town of Gray. It has been destroyed and restored multiple times throughout its history due to wars and floods, making it a testament to the town's resilience and a significant historical landmark.