Vars Ste-Marie

Vars Sainte-Marie, one of the hamlets making up the Vars ski resort in the Hautes-Alpes, offers a mid-mountain setting well suited to walking in any season. The resort's dedicated hiking area features nearly 50 km of marked trails, ideal for exploring the surroundings at your own pace. Nature lovers can head to the Val d'Escreins, an unspoilt valley known for its wildlife and scenery, or venture further afield to the Névache valley or the Pisse waterfall. The town of Briançon, with its Vauban citadel, and Mont-Dauphin, a listed fortified town, make for accessible day trips from the resort, adding a heritage dimension to an otherwise outdoor-focused stay. Locally, the Saint-Marcellin goat farm offers a glimpse into traditional pastoral life. For dining, La Vieille Auberge is well regarded for its warm welcome and generous portions, while L'Après Ski stands out for its pleasant setting and quality cooking. Vars Sainte-Marie thus serves as a convenient base from which to explore both the surrounding mountains and the wider heritage of the Hautes-Alpes region.