Start the tour in L'Argentière-la-Bessée, a town with azure colors located on the edge of the Durance river. With a rich industrial past and an exceptional environment, L'Argentière-la-Bessée has many advantages and attractions for its visitors.

• Heritage: the Silver Mine and the Mining Museum

Discover the industrial and commercial past of L'Argentière-la-Bessée by visiting the Silver Mine (Mine d’Argent du Fournel). During the underground visit you will be able to understand the organization of medieval works. An archaeological, historical and geological approach that will appeal to all generations.

• Nature: the Deslioures Reserve

The blue thistle reserve of the Fournel valley is a Natura 2000 classified site unique in Europe. The flowering of this emblematic flower also called “Queen of the Alps” is around July 15th. The Biological Reserve remains accessible all year round!

• La Vallouise charcuteries: sausages, cabbage sausages, godiveau, diots ... 100% homemade and local!
• Farmers' market: every Friday, between 8 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. - Place de la Mairie

Reach Crots for this second stage, located near Embrun on the shores of Lake Serre-Ponçon. Discover the village and the history of Crots thanks to the Land of Art and History booklet “Parcours Crots”, on sale at the tourist office and at the Embrunais charcuterie museum.

• Heritage: the medieval village and its heritage

In Crots the heritage is rich: the Picomtal Castle, the medieval village, the Church of St Laurent and the Embrunais charcuterie museum. Your visit to Crots will be rhythmic! A little further on the heights of the village, reach the Abbey of Boscodon, a jewel of Romanesque art. A majestic abbey in an incredible environment on the slopes of the Grand Morgon.

• Nature: The Forest of Boscodon

The remarkable high mountain forest of Boscodon, labeled “Exceptional Forest”, is home to exceptional flora and fauna, various tree species, rare insects… keep your eyes wide open! You can easily walk on the many trails.  Two beaches of the Serre-Ponçon lake are accessible  directly from Crots: Chanterelle and Eaux Douces.

• Bee products: mountain honey, propolis, royal jelly, pollen and gingerbread are the quality products offered by the Miellerie de Baratier (3 km from Crots).
• Fromages et Traditions: sale of local and regional products in front of the village, along the RN94.
• La Ferme Embrunaise: mountain charcuterie, ZA des Moulins, route de Boscodon

Welcome to Saint-Firmin. The gateway and beating heart of the Valgaudemar valley. This commune in the Hautes-Alpes is the ideal starting point for exploring a valley renowned for its wild character, its majestic peaks and its waterfalls, offering a true Himalayan atmosphere at the heart of the Écrins Massif. Here, authenticity is the key word.

Heritage: Industrial and Secret Legacy

Saint-Firmin's heritage recounts a history of labour and adaptation to the mountain's harsh conditions:

• The Valgaudemar Spinning Mill (La Filature du Valgaudemar): Delve into the local industrial history by visiting this mill, whose origins date back to 1830. It processed the wool from the valley's sheep to clothe the inhabitants. It is a fine example of mountain ingenuity in the face of harsh winters. (One-hour tour, Adults: 3€).

• The Saint-Firmin Castle (Le Château de Saint-Firmin): Let yourself be guided to discover the history of this emblematic building, whose visit is sometimes associated with gourmet walks for complete sensory pleasure.

Nature: The Gates of the Wild

Saint-Firmin is the perfect base for setting off to discover the west of the Écrins National Park:

• The Valgaudemar: Explore this enclosed glacial valley, famous for its grandiose landscapes and the absence of large ski resorts, which preserves its wild side. It is a paradise between mid and high mountains, ideal for trail running, hiking and the contemplation of the peaks (such as the Obiou and the Faraud).

• The Mountain Specialities: Taste the region's typical dishes such as pain bouilli (boiled bread), local charcuterie, and especially the famous tourtons (these fritters stuffed with potatoes and fresh tomme cheese). Don't miss the Oreilles d'ânes (Donkey's Ears): a vegetarian dish made of wild spinach leaves gratinéed with béchamel and grated cheese (nothing to do with donkeys, promise!).

• The Valgaudemar Regional House (La Maison de Pays du Valgaudemar): The essential meeting point for local producers, located in Saint-Firmin (484 A montée de la Fougerouse). You will find there all year round:

  • Charcuterie and cured meats from the valley

  • Cheeses and dairy products

  • Sweet treats (jams, pastries) and local crafts (wool, pottery).

• The Weekly Market: The local market is regularly held on Tuesday mornings in the village square, ideal for stocking up on fresh produce and meeting the producers.