Orcieres in summer

In the mountains in and around the Champsaur and Valgaudemar valleys there are a variety of mountaineering routes to suit all levels from easy glacier routes like the Cime de Vallon (3406m) or the Pic Jocelme (3458m) to more difficult routes such as the south face of Les Rouies (3589m). The mountaineering elite have frequented the area since the 19th century putting up routes to many of the seemingly inaccessible peaks! It was Coolidge, for example who first climbed the Sirac in 1879 and reported that it was one of the most impressive mountains he had experienced.

With 30 summits over 3000m high dramatically overlooking the Valgaudemar valley and it's authentic alpine charm (lost in many other parts of the Alps) it is easy to see why René Desmaison famously described Valgaudemar as "the most Himalayan like valley of the Alps"!

There are several Club Alpin Français refuges in the area situated between 1480m and 2550m making access to the big routes possible.

For climbing, there are over 9 sites (equipped with bolts)  throughout Champsaur and Valgaudemar offering a range of climbing in different countryside and rock. there is an agreement with the Fédération Française de la Montagne et de l'Escalade to ensure that all the equipment is safe to use and is regularly monitored.

Via Ferrata of "Rocher d'Arthouze" add in 2011 a new opportunity for all to try out rock climbing and rugged mountain path. This route is protected by a rocky cable and metal stairs and accessible from the age of 6 years. Via Ferrata of "Rocher d'Arthouze" is in the shady side of the leisure center of Orcières between Archinard and Serre-Eyraud. Access is free.