ÉCRINS NATIONAL PARKa protected paradise

ÉCRINS NATIONAL PARK

Get away from it all in Les 2 Alpes and set off to discover an unspoilt natural environment!

From the entrance to the Écrins National Park, wind along one of the many hiking trails, take part in a white water activity on the turquoise glacial Vénéon river or stroll along the narrow streets of a mountain village.

Discover

The Écrins National Park

Between the Northern and Southern Alps, the Écrins National Park is one of France’s 10 national parks, located in one of the country’s highest mountain ranges, with more than 150 peaks rising above 3,000 meters.
A region featuring over 740 km of hiking trails, ranging from short family walks to multi-week crossings.

A landscape shaped by glaciers

The current landscape of the Écrins has been largely shaped by glacial erosion. Many glaciers can still be found there, such as the Glacier Blanc and the Glacier Noir, although their surface area is shrinking due to climate change. These glaciers play a vital role in feeding alpine streams and rivers.

A balance between protection and discovery

Both a protected area and a place for exploration, the Écrins National Park is a prime destination for hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife observation. It represents a delicate balance between traditional human activities and the preservation of a unique mountain environment, making it a powerful symbol of the richness and diversity of Alpine landscapes.

An exceptional biodiversity

In the Écrins National Park, mountain wildlife is protected!
Chamois, ibex, wolves, golden eagles, bearded vultures, griffon vultures, owls, alpine ptarmigans, stoats, mountain hares, marmots…

You will also find more than 2,500 plant species, including 40 rare or endangered species.

3 Must-Do Hikes Towards Lake Lauvitel!

DISCOVER THE ACCESS

Access to high-altitude lakes is often reserved for experienced hikers, as the trails leading to them can be demanding. Lake Lauvitel is an exception: while it’s not exactly a gentle stroll, its route is one of the most accessible among the Alpine gems perched high in the mountains. From the hamlet of La Danchère, allow around 1 hour and 30 minutes of ascent, alternating between shaded forest sections and more open, rocky stretches.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT GEAR

Forget about sandals or lightweight shoes: a good pair of hiking boots is essential to walk safely and fully enjoy this mountain getaway.

 

AVOID SWIMMING

Once you reach the top, the panoramic view is well worth the effort. Let yourself be immersed in the beauty of the lake and take a moment to observe it in silence. Keep in mind, however, that it is a fragile ecosystem: swimming there would disrupt the delicate balance of the aquatic wildlife that makes this site so unique.

CONTINUE YOUR JOURNEY

Lauvitel does not necessarily mark the end of your adventure. For those wishing to go further, it serves as a gateway to more ambitious mountain routes. From its shores, experienced hikers can set off toward even wilder horizons, such as Lake Muzelle, perched at 2,115 meters along the GR54 trail, or head to Lake Plan Vianney, nestled at an altitude of 2,269 meters. A wonderful opportunity to turn a simple outing into a true Alpine expedition.

Admire, respect, protect... nature...

How to protect nature and prepare yourself for a great mountain walk.
Adopt the right reflexes too…

National Parks, we give you the keys...

... to find out more!

Everything you always wanted to know about what’s allowed in National Parks, but were afraid to ask!

Need to cool off?

Waterfalls

Lakes

Venosc, a gateway to the Vénéon…

Venosc, a traditional village with its cobbled streets and artisans.

Take part in white water activities on the turquoise Vénéon river: rafting, hydrospeeding, hot dogging…

Petit Village De Venosc Veneon