Nature and landscapes
Southern Alps: 7 exceptional viewpoints!
Bathed in sunshine and looking out towards the Mediterranean, the Southern Alps shine with the beauty of their landscapes. From arid, limestone peaks to the turquoise waters of its lakes, this mountain range stands out for its diversity and contrasts. Discover our selection of breathtaking viewpoints!
Whether you’re into long hikes or quiet family outings, when you walk in the mountains, it’s all about taking in the sights! And when it comes to the Southern Alps, you’re in for a treat! Lunar landscapes rub shoulders with forested valleys, the crystal-clear waters of the lakes are perfect for a picnic break or a lookout point, and there’s no shortage of geographical curiosities. Here’s a closer look at 7 panoramas accessible from the resorts of the Southern Alps.
Marvel at the clear waters of the Southern Alps
Auron
#1 – Lake Vens
One of the jewels of the Mercantour National Park at an altitude of 2380m!
The shortest route starts from the Vens car park on the Route de la Bonette. It takes 2 hours to wind your way through a pretty melezin, past waterfalls and on to a succession of sumptuous lakes, typical of the Southern Alps.
At the refuge of the same name overlooking the lake, you’ll find one of the best blueberry tarts!
Orcières
#2 – Le Saut du Laïre
A family hike and a great classic of the Haut-Champsaur.
From the unspoilt hamlet of Prapic, your steps will take you through the marmot territory of the Southern Alps to the famous “Saut du Laïre” waterfall!
A very easy 8km walk, with a very accessible climb (350m+), lasting an average of 3 hours.
Serre Chevalier
#3 – Lac de l’Oule
A very accessible walk for all the family, starting from the Col du Granon. This well-maintained signposted trail climbs gently to the Col de l’Oule before descending to the lake of the same name.
Access: from Saint-Chaffrey, park in the Col du Granon car park.
Val d’Allos
#4 – Lac d’Allos
In the heart of the Mercantour National Park in the Southern Alps, the Lac d’Allos, Europe’s largest high-altitude natural lake (2228m), is the jewel in the crown of the commune.
A product of the glaciers of the Quaternary era, created by melting snow and springs, the 54-hectare Lac d’Allos reaches a depth of 48m.
There are 2 ways to get there: from the Laus car park, it’s a 45-minute walk to Lac d’Allos, or follow the GR 56B signs from Val d’Allos. Average round trip walking time is 6 hours.
Les Orres
#5 – Lake Sainte Marguerite
The peaceful Lac Sainte Marguerite, at an altitude of 2227m, is the ideal spot for a picnic break with a view. Rising above the lake from the viewpoint, you can see some of the peaks of the Ecrins and Queyras massifs.
There are two ways to get here:
- From the Pousterle chairlift (more difficult, steeper, aerial section), head for the orientation table at 2768m, then a ridge path that separates the Petit Vallon and the side of the lake. This leads to the lookout point and orientation table. Head for the summit of Aupillon (2917m) and descend to the Col de l’âne and Lac Sainte Marguerite.
- From the Pra Paisset path (you can see the via ferrata), or from the 1650 resort centre (marmot trail under the Prélongis chairlift).
Discover the lunar landscapes of the Southern Alps
Valberg
#6 – Mont Mounier
The highest limestone peak in the Southern Alps, Mont Mounier rises to an altitude of 2817m.
Made up of limestone banks formed from sediments accumulated in the Alpine Sea during the secondary era, it offers a panoramic view which, on a clear day, stretches from the Swiss Alps to Corsica.
Allow 6 hours round trip and 1100m ascent to reach it.
Access from Valberg: from the resort centre, take Avenue St Bernard, then Avenue Jean Ray, and the Route Sasha Sosno towards the Valberg Golf Club and the Col de l’Espaul.
Parking is available at the Col de l’Espaul.
Valberg
#7 – The gorges de Daluis nature reserve
The aptly-named Point Sublime hike is accessible to all (approx. 1h15 round trip, 4km and 150m ascent) and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Daluis gorges, also known as “the little Colorado of Nice”, a classic of the Southern Alps.
From Valberg : take the RD 28 towards Guillaumes. Once in Guillaumes, head towards the Gorges de Daluis. The hike starts at the Berthéou bridge, with a car park signposted on the side of the road.
