Frequently asked questions

Great outdoors of Orcières Merlette - © Gilles Baron

Mid-season openings Information about the Tourist Office

OPENING DATES

What are the resort's opening dates?

This winter, Orcières Merlette 1850 welcomes you from saturday 5^th july to sunday 31^th august 2026.

Next winter, the resort will be open from saturday 13^th december 2025 to sunday 12^th april 2026 (subject to snow conditions).

THE MOUNTAIN OUT OF SEASON

What shops are open in Orcières out of season?

Outside the lifts opening periods (in the spring and in the fall) the activity in the station is slowed down. However, we suggest that you consult a list of businesses, restaurants and activities accessible this spring 2025.

SUMMER SEASON

Is there still snow at altitude in summer ?

The snow cover at altitude in summer can vary according to the seasons.
We advise you to contact the Tourist Office or the Écrins National Park before setting off on a hike.

Are dogs allowed on the ski lifts and on the ski area in summer ?

The 3 telemixes are accessible with dogs only during the summer season. They must be leashed on all hikes.
Please note that animals (even on a leash) are not allowed in the heart of the Écrins national park.
You can nevertheless take advantage of walks in the Ecrins national park thanks to the dog sitting offered at the Orcières Leisure Center.

How to behave in the presence of herds with guard dogs ?

On all the mountain pastures of our commune during your hikes, you will come across our shepherds and their guard dogs such as patous or Anatolian shepherds.
Sometimes the herd is alone with the dogs. We advise you to respect the herds.

ACCESS AND TRAFFIC

Is there a charge for parking in the resort ?

In summer, all car parks in the town (except car parks reserved for motorhomes) are free.

What is the market day in Orcières ?

In the summer season, the market takes place every Thursday morning from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the P3 car park opposite the Tourist Office. Parking is therefore prohibited from the night before.

How to access the hamlet of Prapic by car ?

Access to the hamlet is forbidden to vehicles.
You will have to park in the free car parks which are 300m upstream from the village.

What should you know about traffic conditions this summer ?

The road between Orcières village and the resort (Merlette) will be closed as part of the “reserved passes” event :
- on friday 25 july 2025 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
- on friday 29 august 2025 (from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
- on wednesday 22 october 2025 (from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.)