Vars and its villages

4 villages, 4 atmospheres

From Saint-Marcellin to Sainte-Marie, via Vars les Claux and Sainte-Catherine, the villages of Vars tell the story of a valley that is alive all year round. Combining heritage, mountains, traditions and wide open spaces, each village has its own character and atmosphere.

A vibrant valley

all year round

Nestled at altitudes of between 1,600 and 1,850 metres, the villages of Vars reveal another side to the destination. Much more than just a ski resort in the Hautes-Alpes, Vars is a valley inhabited all year round where heritage, traditions and the great outdoors come together. From Saint-Marcellin to Les Claux, via Sainte-Marie and Sainte-Catherine, each village has its own identity, history and atmosphere.

In winter, the narrow streets are blanketed in snow and offer easy access to theVars La Forêt Blancheski area. In summer, the villages become the ideal starting point for exploring the hiking trails, mountain pastures and unspoilt landscapes of the Vars valley.

4 villages, 4 different ways

to live in Vars

All along the valley, the villages of Vars tell the story of an authentic, vibrant mountain. Each one offers a different experience, ranging from village life and outdoor activities to heritage and access to the great outdoors.

Lively atmosphereVars les Claux1850–2000 M

The bustling heart of the resort, at the foot of the ski area.

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Village lifeVars Sainte-Marie1,650 m

The main gateway to the ski area – the central village between the Chagne and Chagnon streams

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WealthVars Sainte-Catherine1,790 metres

The picture-postcard village, bathed in sunshine, perched high above the valley.

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HeritageVars Saint-Marcellin1,630 m

Tranquillity and contemplation are the watchwords of this first historic village in Vars

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I’m looking at the map of the villages14MB

/ A deep-rooted heritage

In the Hautes-Alpes

In Vars, traditions still play an important role in local life. Chapels, bread ovens, village festivals, traditional architecture and mountain craftsmanship bear witness to a history deeply rooted in the local area.

Far from the image of a mere winter sports resort, Vars nurtures its identity as a vibrant, inhabited Alpine valley. Traditional and heritage festivals, as well as encounters with the locals, offer visitors the chance to discover an authentic and well-preserved heritage.

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A mountain to experience

in summer and winter alike

/ In summerThe call of the great outdoors

When the snow gives way to mountain pastures, Vars reveals a whole new side to itself. Scenic hikes, legendary mountain passes, mountain bike trails, mountain heritage and authentic villages come together to form a life-sized playground in the heart of the Southern Alps.

In figures:

200km of hiking trails
200 km of mountain bike and e-MTB trails: Vars Bike Park
1 connected mountain-biking area: Forêt Verte 360
1 nature reserve: the Val d’Escreins
6 trail runs
8 themed trails

/ Winter: snow sports on a grand scaleAt the heart of the Forêt Blanche

Linked to Risoul, Vars forms part of the La Forêt Blanche ski area, one of the largest in the Southern Alps. Set amongst larch forests, vast high-altitude landscapes and exceptional panoramic views, the destination offers a varied skiing experience suitable for families and skiing enthusiasts alike. Vars is also renowned for its freestyle playground, its famous speed run and its excellent snow conditions at an altitude of over 2,700 metres.

The ski area in figures: