Calm and contemplation, this original, centuries-old village offers a calm and 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 still being within easy reach of the resort’s main attractions thanks to the shuttle buses that keep you in touch.
The more 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. It’s an opportunity to meet the locals and soak up the friendly atmosphere of the place.

Vars Saint Marcellin
HeritageSaint Marcellin is the first Vars you see when you arrive on the north side of the pass road. You cross through the heart of the village, revealing 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 go beyond the crossing street to get to know the oldest of our villages.
Entrance door

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



For great 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 lovely tour between the villages of Vars Sainte Marie and Vars Saint Marcellin linked by the torrent.

Only a few ruins remain of this castle dating back to the 11th century.
It was destroyed in 1577 on the orders of the Archbishop of Embrun during the Wars of Religion to prevent it falling into the hands of the Reformed.
Today, strengthened by this history, the locality known as the castle is a pleasant walk that provides access to this 360° promontory overlooking the Vars and Durance valleys.
Practical Information
From 5 July to 31 August, the commune of Vars and the ski-lift company are offering a free shuttle service to take you to and from the villages.
The shuttle service is free of charge and is operated by the commune of Vars and the ski-lift company.
Always more
Heritage festivals
Vars is also home to heritage festivals that allow you to discover our villages from a different angle!
