Calm and contemplative, this original, centuries-old village offers a calm, soothing holiday destination. Close to the forest and the Chagne torrent that runs through it, Vars Saint-Marcellin is the perfect place to disconnect from everyday life, while remaining close to the resort’s lively centers thanks to the shuttles that keep you connected.
The most curious will discover the sculptures created by a local artist who has literally populated the hamlet with his imaginary characters, who are now part of everyday life. An opportunity to meet the locals and soak up the friendly atmosphere.

Vars Saint Marcellin
Our heritageSaint Marcellin is the first Vars to be discovered when arriving on the north side of the pass road. A crossing through the heart of the village reveals the facades of wooden chalets and old houses on either side. It’s worth taking the time to stop and discover the richness of the village’s heritage, and to go beyond the crossing street to familiarize yourself with the oldest of our villages.
Front door

A LITTLE HISTORY
Vars Saint Marcellin, the gateway to Vars at an altitude of 1,600 m, is the oldest village in the commune, with its church at its heart. As it stands today, it dates back to the 18th century, although some highly interesting architectural features date back to earlier times (the portal surmounted by a central arch and the two lions adorning the entrance, carved in pink marble from the Guillestre quarry by Lombard sculptors, and the 13th-century choir capitals) and the paintings, whose renovation will reveal their beauty in the light of day. In the past, the Church of Notre Dame has suffered the ravages of time and history, including the sacking by the Duke of Savoy’s armies in 1692 when they entered the Hautes Alpes via the Vars pass.



To enjoy beautiful views of the village of Saint Marcellin, simply head up the Chagne towards the “Forest”:
A road allows you to gain height and complete a pretty tour between the villages of Vars Sainte Marie and Vars Saint Marcellin linked by the torrent.

Only a few ruins remain of this 11th-century castle.
It was destroyed in 1577 by order of the Archbishop of Embrun during the Wars of Religion, to prevent it falling into the hands of the Reformed.
Today, with all this history behind it, the “lieu-dit du château” is a pleasant stroll to this 360° promontory overlooking the Vars and Durance valleys.
Practical info
A free shuttle service has been set up by the commune of Vars and the ski lift company to take you in and out of the villages.
Shuttle timetables will be available soon. Stay tuned!
Always more
Heritage festivals
Vars is also home to heritage festivals that let you discover our villages from a different angle!
