While the thermometer goes wild in the plains, the mountains keep their cool. In the Hautes-Alpes, Orcières Merlette stands out as an unmissable cool sanctuary for the summer of 2026. Between waterfalls, high-altitude lakes and water play areas, the resort promises a refreshing and active mix, for both young and old. From artistic trails to wild swimming, here is an overview of five spots for a real shot of coolness in the heart of the Champsaur.
The big splash, at the O2 Arena and the Aquaparc
First anti-heatwave reflex: dive in. With O2 Arena, the former leisure base is scaling up to become a true living space. Its 450 m² swimming lake is fed by the Drac Noir, which was awarded «River in good condition» status in 2022. Around it, a large open-air playground brings together beach volleyball, a multi-sports pitch, water play features and a fishing lake, with free access, alongside activities offered by service providers.
A new feature for the season, the Aquaparc is rounding out the offering while the Sports Centre gets a makeover for the winter. This open-air relaxation area brings together a heated 25-metre swimming pool, a shaded snacking area, a sandy zone with a beach volleyball court and three children's climbing modules, soon to be joined by an inflatable structure. Down below, the bottom of the slopes is hosting a mountain bike progression zone, a pumptrack, a balance bike course and children's play areas. Enough to transform the whole resort into a giant playground.
Hiking to catch the cooler air
For walking, it is time for contemplation with the World of the 6 Lakes. Starting from the top of the Drouvet Télémix, this 10-kilometre trail winds around six emblematic lakes, punctuated by 18 artistic stations.
Stone and iron sheep sculptures, mountain sirens, playful clouds... the artworks tell the dreamlike story of a shepherd sleeping in the heart of the mountain. An easy walk, doable both ascending and descending, with a section accessible for all-terrain pushchairs.
Waterfalls and lakes, the safe bets
For a family outing, head to the Saut du Laïre waterfall. With a climb of only 400 metres, the path crosses the alpine pastures of the Plateau de Charnière – where marmots often pop their noses out – before reaching the waterfall at 1,886 metres. The return journey can be extended into a loop via the Plateau de Basset.
The most seasoned hikers will finally set their sights on Lac des Pisses, a classic route starting from Prapic. The winding ascent crosses mountain pastures where sheep graze, dotted with torrents and waterfalls that are perfect for refreshing breaks. On arrival, at 2,510 metres, the lake reveals itself amidst the rugged, high-mountain landscape, offering the reward of a breathtaking panorama.
Find out more :
- O2 Area: 450 m² swimming lake, beach volleyball, water play area, fishing (free access)
- Aquaparc admission €12/adult, €9/child (heated 25 m swimming pool, climbing, beach volleyball)
- The World of 6 Lakes: 10 km walk, 18 art installations; cable car ride: €11 per adult, €9 per child
- Saut du Laïre Waterfall: family walk, 400 m of ascent, waterfall at 1,886 m
- Lac des Pisses walk starting from Prapic, lake at 2,510 m
- More info +33 (0)4 92 55 89 89
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