This summer, discover the mountains as you've never seen them before. From animal encounters and contemplative hikes to pastoral gastronomy and educational farms, Orcières and the surrounding area reveal an authentic and unexpected mountain. Here are five ideas for unusual experiences for young and old.
1. Watching marmots at dusk in Prapic
When the sun goes down and the light becomes soft, the marmots come out of their burrows. Accompanied by a naturalist guide, set off on a walk from the village of Prapic to catch a glimpse of these emblematic little rodents. An immersive outing to discover the biodiversity of the Écrins, ending with a tasting of local produce.
- Every Monday at 6pm
- 22.50/adult - €18.50/child (-30 % from the 2nd child)
- Information & bookings: Maison de la Montagne - 06 63 64 05 97
2. Hiking with donkeys: gentle walking and animal bonding
Walking at a donkey's leisurely pace, equipping it, stroking it and listening to it... A gentle adventure full of complicity from Ancelle, ideal for discovering the mountains in a different way. At every turn, the flora and fauna are revealed, as you follow a trail punctuated by observation games and nature breaks.
- From 3 years - by reservation only
- Contact: 06 09 93 32 65
3. On the trail of the chamois at nightfall
In the Champoléon valley, when the mountains go to sleep, the chamois wake up. With the help of telescopes and professional guides, admire these acrobats of the peaks in their natural environment. A night-time hike punctuated by a picnic and a descent under the stars.
READ MORE: Jordane Juschka: "Customers appreciate Orcières for its identity".
- Every Thursday and Saturday at the end of the day - From age 7
- Bring a headlamp and lunch
- 22.50/adult - €18.50/child (-30 % from the 2nd child)
- Information & bookings: Maison de la Montagne - 06 63 64 05 97
4. Short-form gourmet break at the Auberge de La Jabiore
In the heart of the Ecrins National Park, at Prapic, La Jabiore embodies the mountain spirit in its truest form. This farmhouse inn raises cows and sheep in the wild, and serves produce from its own farm and garden. Here, authenticity is savoured as much on the plate as in the smiles.
- Dishes between €15 and €23
- Gîte and gîte d'étape open all year round - From €120 to €2,100/stay
- Contact: 04 92 55 75 10
5. "Tout là Ô": farm immersion and educational discovery
At the Ferme des Cabrioles, now known as "Tout là Ô", Pauline and Jean-Baptiste share their passion for farming. With educational visits, meetings with the goats and the discovery of products processed on site, this farm is a place for sharing and conviviality. Those with a sweet tooth will go home with organic eggs, sausages or home-made rillettes.
- Educational visit: €3.50 / person
- Direct farm sales (eggs, goat meat, local produce)
- Contact: 07 81 29 69 74