Abriès:
Located in the department of Hautes-Alpes, the village of Abriès is an integral part of the Regional Natural Park of Queyras, and takes place at the gates of the nature reserve of the upper valley of Guil. Bordering Aiguilles, it is notably integrated in the district of Briançon.
Ancient medieval village, Abriès still presents a beautiful mountain architecture, as well as a rich and interesting heritage. Its surrounding nature and its enchanting setting make it one of the most pleasant places in the region to spend a few days relaxing in the fresh air.
The range of leisure activities offered to visitors and locals is varied, and hikers can indulge with joy in their passion on the various marked trails that cross or surround the village of Abriès.
Ristolas:
Ristolas is located in the Hautes-Alpes, Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, on the Italian border, about 25 km southeast of Briancon.
The vast territory of the town is located at the end of the Queyras Valley, along the course of Guil, on the foothills of Mount Viso, whose summit is in Italy.
The village and hamlets of La Monta and Echalp were built between 1600 and 1700 m above sea level, but the highest point of Ristolas is 3294 m and several peaks and passes exceed 3000 m.
Affected by the rural exodus (700 inhabitants to the Revolution, 300 in the early twentieth century, less than 80 now) in a region once rich for its livestock, Ristolas is included in the Regional Natural Park of Queyras. It is now a small winter sports resort that is appreciated for its vast potential in terms of Nordic skiing and, in summer, a paradise for hikers, as the exceptional and protected environment lends itself to multiple discoveries. of a preserved nature.
Abriès:
The Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul-et-Saint-Antoine church was built in the 12th century and rebuilt in the 16th century. Restored following the wars of religion, it still has a steeple from the early seventeenth century, and a beautiful high altar. Paintings of the seventeenth, eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, which notably form the Way of the Cross, embellish the whole.
Several chapels are still present in the village, such as those of Saint-Roch, or Saint-Laurent.
Built at the end of the 16th century, the Abriès halls were listed in the supplementary inventory of Historic Monuments. Today they serve as a tourist office and still reveal beautiful stone arches.
The circuit of Written Stones is a must when you spend a few days in Abriès. It allows to discover several specimens everywhere in the village, like that which is directed at the torrent Boucher.
Ristolas:
In winter, the different areas of Ristolas are open from the end of December to the beginning of April.
For downhill skiing, the resort is ideally designed for beginners and families with a downhill slope, two toboggan runs and a ski lift specially adapted for children. A play area has been developed. Since Ristolas, it is possible to reach the slopes of the area of Abriès. Information on +33 4 92 45 83 18.
Ristolas is best known for its many Nordic ski trails offering courses of varying difficulty, from beginners to advanced cross-country skiers. Pass 3 hours from 8 euros. Information on +33 4 92 45 04 62.
Finally, a biathlon stadium is open from January to March for beginners who can be lent laser rifles. Information on +33 4 92 46 76 32.
Always in winter, where access to the village can sometimes be difficult, snowshoeing and sleigh rides are also possible. Inquire at +33 4 92 46 76 18.
From spring to autumn, and especially in July and August, Ristolas, its summits, its lakes dotted with huge and green high mountain areas is suitable for hiking, even mountain biking, for which adapted circuits have been designed. It is an opportunity to discover an exceptional environment largely protected and classified (Natura 2000 zone). The rich fauna and flora include rare and protected species and varieties. Ecological trails have been designed. It is strongly recommended to learn about the difficulties of the circuits and courses. Information from the Regional Natural Park who has devised a series of adapted and thematic trails at +33 4 92 46 88 20 or +33 4 92 46 76 18.
A stopover in Ristolas should also include a visit to the Barma Museum, which presents a permanent exhibition centered on the history of the village and the Queyras Valley, the local traditions, through paintings, photos, documents, objects. Information on +33 4 92 46 84 84.
Another essential site, the Arche des Cimes, managed by the Regional Natural Park, is a center of interpretation and knowledge of nature. The opportunity to discover the ecological riches of this high valley, geologically, fauna and flora. In an exceptional setting and thanks to a careful scenography and museography and a qualified accompaniment, the Arche des Cimes is a place where all the public can better understand the complex balance that prevails in Ristolas and in its region. Open from June to September and Christmas at the end of March. Price: 2,50 and 5 euros. Information on +33 4 92 46 86 29.
Finally, note that tourist shuttles are offered in summer to connect the most emblematic sites of the village and its surroundings. Information on +33 4 92 46 76 32.
Abriès:
The Abriès market is held every Wednesday morning, and only every two weeks in winter and out of season.
In July, place at the festival of the flower and the plant world. Stands and animations allow to appreciate all the charms of nature.
The Musiqueyras festival is held every year in July, offering interesting concerts.
Ristolas:
On the first weekend of August, over five days (from Friday to Monday), the Musical Festival of Ristolas program five concerts of classical music in the village church. Renowned artists are invited every year. Information on +33 7 81 92 84 40.
The first weekend of August also, feast of the St. Lawrence in the hamlet of La Monta. Fun and convivial animations.
