Activities

Orcières Merlette 1850, a resort in the Hautes-Alpes located in the Champsaur valley, is a paradise for cyclists who will take advantage of the exceptional climatic conditions. The fabulous passes and climbs at the gates of the Ecrins National Park position Orcières as a privileged base camp for setting out to conquer many climbs. Lovers of ''la petite reine'' will get their calves in for as the climb to Orcières is renowned for its technical and sporty nature, with a 7% gradient in over just 7 km. It hasn't finished surprising cyclists, even the most seasoned!

The resort hosted 5 Tour arrivals (1971, 1972, 1982, 1989, 2020). However, it was the 1971 stage that will go down in history, with the victory of Spaniard Luis Ocaña, ahead of Eddy Merckx "the Cannibal", by almost 9 minutes, before taking the yellow jersey. This stage remains the most memorable of the Tour's arrivals in Orcières. Like the one in 1989, during the time trial at the Gap – Orcières, Greg Lemond took over the yellow jersey from Laurent Fignon on the climb!

In winter, the resort is famous for its sunny ski area up to 2725m and its offer of off-ski activities.

Do you want fresh air and beautiful weather, in a pure and sunny climate? Hikes and discoveries as big as the mountains? Of a real station for children? Activities and leisure within easy reach and as far as the eye can see?

Orcières has the peaks of the Ecrins National Park as its horizon, its territory the Champsaur & Valgaudemar valleys, its distinctive signs its children's house, its Sports Palace, its mountain biking area and bike park, its mythical cycle routes, the one of the largest zip lines in Europe, its many high-altitude lakes... The resort offers a multitude of activities: leisure and relaxation (swimming pool, ice rink, relaxation area, bowling, cinema...), hiking infinity in the Ecrins National Park, downhill mountain biking, white water, paragliding, climbing, horse riding, adventure trail, paintball, zip line, cycling, fishing...!

With its ski area bathed in the Hautes-Alpes sun and its many activities, the resort welcomes you in winter in a warm, festive and family atmosphere. On the program, 51 alpine ski slopes for all levels, innovative ski lifts (3 Télémix®), a Sports Center in the heart of the resort (swimming pool, ice rink, bowling, etc.), multiple activities (XXL zip line, snow buoys , dog sledding, snakegliss, paragliding, nights under an igloo, snowmobiling, biathlon, electric karting on ice, snowshoeing...!) An ideal place to dream higher!

Did you know that it was in Orcières, in 1967, that the first snow garden was imagined? Or that it was in Orcières, in 1970, that the "Cartable à la Neige" formula was born? The resort has always been a pioneer in welcoming children and families. With its adapted accommodation offer (club villages, hotels, residences, etc.), its services ("Family Plus" room, leisure and relaxation complex, Maison de l'Enfant, etc.), its ski area suitable for families ( 3 Télémix®, 2 fun trails, etc.), Orcières remains a benchmark resort for welcoming families. Not to mention the entertainment for all ages and the small services that help parents and children.