Walking
Overview

Nestled on the edge of the Ecrins National Park and between the Champsaur and Valgaudemar valleys, Orcieres is the gateway to a vast area of natural beauty. A natural wilderness where the alpine and mediterranean air meet and the sun shines generously. Welcome to paradise for hiking.


There are a multitude of different itineraries and destinations accessible from the commune (borough) of Orcieres: sunny walks along the terraces overlooking the Champsaur valley, cool strolls through the forest as well as more demanding walks including access to over 13 summits of 3000m or more taking you into the heart of the Ecrins massif.

 

This exceptional territory is home to over 1800 species of plants and 350 species of vertebrates. Amongst these are the celebrated chamois and marmots which, although abundant in our valleys, require patience and discretion to be seen! And golden eagles which can be seen flying majestically high above the mountains giving an idea of the scale of this magnificent space....

 

There are several 'classic' walks to be done in this area! Guidebooks and other ideas can be found on sale at the tourist office. See alto the "Randos Découvertes" leaflet summer 2011.

Le Forest des Estaris


Duration : 1h00  -  Ascent : 150 m -  Distance : 3,0 km

A short walk possible both from the station, but also from the hamlet of Estaris located 100m below. Just follow the direction of the lakes through the Queyrelets place, then by the ascending street towards the "groomers garage". Continue across the track, you reach the Forest des Estaris in less than twenty minutes. Go back the same way. If you come from Estaris "village", you will prolong the ride to get there and back by a few loops that you hoist up the resort and you can reach the Queyrelets place.

Le Forest des Marches


Duration : 2h30  -  Ascent : 250 m -  Distance : 6,1 km

This is a circular route along the terraces overlooking the Champsaur valley with opportunities for an insight into the local culture. From the Ferme des Cabrioles aux Marches, go up the track around several hairpins bends until you reach la Chabanne and then to the Estaris forest.  Then take the path with a steep start. The path widens when you reach the Clot Aumaillé and you continue along a bit further towards the resort. Don't miss the Merlette turn off: a path leaves the track taking you back to Plautus and then les Marches. This circuit can also be done from the resort (from the Muande residence).

The Rouannette cabin


Duration : 2h30  -  Ascent : 350 m -  Distance : 5,5 km

This valley nestled between the l'Aiguille d'Orcières and la Grande Autane in the shadow of Orcieres is a welcome refreshing walk on a hot summer's day! From the car park in Archinard, the itinerary climbs progressively on the right of the river up the Rouannette valley towards the cabin. At around 1800m it is advisable to cross the river and continue on the left side of the Archinard stream. Please stop about 15 minutes before reaching the cabin as it is occupied by a shepherd in summer. Go back the same way.

The Lakes of Orcieres


Duration : 3h30  -  Ascent : 800 m -  Distance : 10,4 km

 

This walk is a must for a beautiful summer's day!  Take the ski lift up to the Drouvet summit and then walk towards the Lac du Estaris (1h). It is at an altitude of 2550m, is the biggest lake in the commune (borough) and is classed as a natural reserve. From there follow the signs for chalet de Rocherousse (45mins) where you will come across the  lac Profond,  the lacs Jumeaux, the lac des Sirènes...  From the Rocherousse the route continues towards the plateau de jujal (20 min) and then descends down through flowery alpine meadows to the resort (30 min).

The waterfall of Saut du Laïre


Duration : 3h00  -  Ascent : 330 m -  Distance : 7,6 km

A great family walk. After experiencing the charm of Prapic village, follow the Ecrins National Park signs to the Saut du Laire. The path climbs gently up to the plateau de Charniere. Look out for marmots as you cross the plateau! The path continues climbing past the Chapelle de la Saulce, before arriving at the fabulous "Saut du Laïre" (jump of the theif) waterfall at 1886m.

The path of the factor


Duration : 2h30 - Ascent : 360m

To vary the pleasures in hot days, here is a loop full of freshness along the Drac and the shady forest. From the recreation park of Orcieres, head of Serre-Eyraud through Martelle, Les Trappes, Le Pigeonnier, Latirou. Go back through the Chemin du Facteur and the Pont des Côtes.

Le Refuge du Tourond


Duration : 2h30  -  Ascent : 350 m

A walk in a delightful valley Champoléon Valley, near Orcières with two great rewards : the comfort of the Tourond chalet and the "cascade de la Pisse" in the background. From Les Fermonds, pass the Chapel via the mule track to the bridge that crosses the Muande. Then continue until the Tourond Refuge. Remember to open your eyes to see the goats that frequent this area regularly !