Stay at a campground near Embrun:

Less than 20 minutes from Embrun, Camping la Palatrière welcomes you to a preserved natural setting, nestled between mountains and crystal-clear waters. The campground offers easy access to this iconic tourist destination in the Southern Alps, while allowing you to enjoy a quieter, more natural setting. 

Nestled between lake and mountain, the town of Embrun attracts thousands of visitors every summer thanks to its sunny climate, swimming in the lake, its historic downtown with lively narrow streets, and its farmers’ markets.

 

During your vacation at La Palatrière campground, you’ll have the chance to visit Embrun, its historic center, its traditional markets, and its unique heritage. You can easily take a day or half-day trip there while still enjoying the peace and authenticity of a campground nestled in the heart of nature, between the Durance and Ubaye rivers.

 

A true hub for summer activities, the town is also the starting point for numerous hikes, water sports, and cultural excursions. Its vibrancy and authentic charm make it an essential stop during a vacation in the Hautes-Alpes.

Visit Embrun: the Nice of the Alps

Perched on a puddingstone outcrop at nearly 800 meters above sea level, Embrun is one of the hidden gems of the Hautes-Alpes. Rightly nicknamed the “Nice of the Alps” for its mild Mediterranean climate and exceptional sunshine, this former archiepiscopal city offers a striking contrast between Provence and the high mountains.

Whether you’re a lover of historic architecture, a water sports enthusiast on Lake Serre-Ponçon, or a hiking enthusiast in the Écrins National Park, Embrun is the ideal destination for your vacation in the Southern Alps. Discover our comprehensive guide so you don’t miss a thing during your stay.

What to do and see in Embrun? The must-sees

Explore the historic center and Notre-Dame du Réal Cathedral

Strolling through the historic heart of Embrun is a true journey back in time. Its colorful narrow streets with pastel-colored facades are reminiscent of nearby Italy.

  • Notre-Dame du Réal Cathedral: This is the city’s must-see landmark. Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, it impresses with its unique portico (the Réal), supported by sculpted columns, and its Lombard influences. Be sure to visit its treasury, one of the richest in France.
  • The Brown Tower: This former 13th-century keep overlooks the city and offers, from its summit, an exceptional panoramic view of the Durance Valley.

Enjoy the Embrun lake 

At the foot of the rock lies the Embrun lake, a preserved and developed lagoon adjacent to the large Serre-Ponçon lake. It’s the perfect spot for families and water sports enthusiasts.

  • Supervised swimming and shaded grassy beaches.
  • Water activities: Paddleboard, kayak, and windsurfing rentals, as well as a water ski lift for the more adventurous.
  • The Dike Trail: A flat, accessible path perfect for walking or biking around the lake at sunset.

Admire the view from the Jardin de l'Archevêché

For the best photo of your vacation, head to the Jardin de l'Archevêché. Perched on the edge of a cliff, this suspended park offers a spectacular, bird’s-eye view of the Durance Valley, the turquoise waters of the lake, and the surrounding peaks, notably the Morgon.

Outdoor activities around Embrun

Ideally situated at the gateway to the Écrins and Queyras National Parks, Embrun is the perfect base camp for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.

  • Hiking: From the legendary Grand Morgon to the gentle trails of the Boscodon Forest, there are trails for all skill levels.
  • Whitewater sports: The Durance and Guil rivers await you for unforgettable sessions of rafting, canyoning, or hydrospeed.
  • Cycling and mountain biking: Road cyclists can test their mettle on the legendary Tour de France passes (Izoard, Galibier), while mountain bikers can enjoy the enduro trails at Les Orres resort, just 20 minutes away.

Flagship events: The temple of the triple challenge

It’s impossible to talk about Embrun without mentioningthe Embrunman. Every year, around August 15, the town comes alive with one of the world’s toughest and most legendary XXL triathlons. Thousands of athletes come to tackle the lake, the Col de l’Izoard, and a marathon with a grueling course, all while being cheered on by a frenzied crowd.

Practical information for your stay in Embrun

How to get to Embrun?

  • By car: Accessible via the A51 highway (La Saulce exit) then the RN94 from Marseille, or via Grenoble through the Col du Lautaret.
  • By train: Embrun station is served by TER PACA trains and the direct Intercités night train from Paris-Austerlitz.

When to visit?

While summer remains the best season to enjoy Lake Serre-Ponçon, fall and spring offer vibrant landscapes and the perfect tranquility for hiking. In winter, Embrun serves as an ideal base for exploring nearby ski resorts such as Les Orres, Crévoux, or Réallon.

Extra tip: Don’t leave without sampling the local specialties at the Saturday morning market: Champsaur tourtons, oreilles d’âne, mountain honey, and valley cheeses!

Embrun’s Markets: Local Flavors and Crafts of the Hautes-Alpes

It’s impossible to imagine a vacation in Embrun without soaking up the atmosphere of its markets, renowned as some of the liveliest and most gourmet in the Durance Valley. It’s a must-visit destination for foodies and fans of locally sourced products.

  • The big weekly Saturday morning market: All year round, the town center comes alive around the colorful stalls. It’s the perfect time to fill your basket with local specialties: Champsaur tourtons, oreilles d’âne, sheep and goat cheeses from Queyras, mountain charcuterie, and larch honey.
  • The Wednesday morning farmers’ market: More intimate and 100% local, it showcases the farmers and artisans of the Embrunais region. Ideal for enjoying fresh, seasonal produce.
  • Summer night markets: In July and August, the town extends the fun into the evening. Artisans, local designers, jewelry, pottery, and regional products set up shop under the glow of pastel-colored facades, all in a festive, musical atmosphere.

Events and culture: A town that’s always on the move

Embrun never sleeps, especially once the warm weather arrives. The town offers a particularly rich cultural and festive calendar, sure to appeal to families and night owls alike.

The major summer events

  • Les Mercredis de l'Embrunais: Throughout the summer season, the squares of the historic center come alive with free concerts, street performances, and activities for children. A lively, friendly atmosphere not to be missed after a day at the lake.
  • Tradition and local culture: From the Saint-Florent festival to dramatized tours of the old town and fireworks launched from the Roc or the lake, summer in Embrun is one long celebration.

Cinema, theater, and culture

Cultural life also revolves around the Le Roc cinema, temporary exhibitions at La Manutention (a superbly restored former military building), and classical music or choral concerts held in the magnificent setting of Notre-Dame du Réal Cathedral.