Today, I take you to discover a renowned and magnificent massif, located in the Hautes-Alpes. We will answer the question: what to do in the Dévoluy massif? The mountain air is conducive to beautiful walks, more athletic hikes, breathtaking landscapes and discoveries as beautiful as they are unexpected. So in this new article dedicated to the Dévoluy massif, we will see together all the wonders that hide in this rocky setting.
Find at the end of the article some practical advice to help you organize your stay.
Contents: What to do in Dévoluy?
- Discover the Dévoluy ski areas
- Take the Col du Noyer
- Go to the sources of Gillardes
- Stop at Mere-Eglise
- Admire the stars at the Pic de Bure
Discover the Dévoluy ski areas
The Dévoluy massif is very well known for its ski area, which is relatively well understood. It is one of the important areas for skiing in the Southern Alps. In reality, it is made up of two stations, each located on a slope, and communicating from the top of the two stations. Whether you leave from La Joue du Loup or Superdévoluy, you can enjoy both areas without limit. With nearly 100 km of runs overall and around fifty different runs, you'll have plenty to keep you busy.
Where is the Dévoluy massif located?
The Dévoluy massif is located on the border of Isère and Hautes-Alpes. You will therefore change department but also region. To get there, several options are possible: via the Col du Noyer from Champsaur-Valgaudemar; via the Col du Festre from Veynes; or by the Lac du Sautet from Grenoble. All 3 are very beautiful roads with sublime landscapes.
Le Dévoluy can also be visited easily from Gap, located about 40 minutes away by car. Further south, about an hour's drive away, is the Serre-Ponçon lake.
In addition to skiing, these two resorts also offer activities at the foot of the slopes. This is what we will detail immediately.
Superdévoluy
The Superdévoluy station has a recognizable building typical of this station. It is a huge bar of building located at the foot of the departures of the slopes. Composed mainly of accommodation, this building also houses many services, bars, restaurants and amenities that you may need during your stay in the surrounding area. Not necessarily very aesthetic at first glance, this resort is still very practical and keeps all the family members occupied, whether they are skiers or not.
In addition, if you come by car for a day or more, you will have a huge car park where some places are even sheltered. A rather pleasant advantage whether it is to protect yourself from the snow or the sun in summer.
The wolf's cheek
As for the Joue du Loup station, it is completely opposite to its neighbour. La Joue du Loup is much more intimate and warm. The center of the resort is made up of pretty alleys and squares. Around, you will find sumptuous chalets, very chic. A completely different atmosphere, and still a very pleasant ski area, in the heart of the Dévoluy massif.
La Joue du Loup now has a very recent aquatic centre: O'Dycéa. On a total of 1400 m2, this wellness center offers a multitude of care services, spa, balneotherapy, … All with a breathtaking view of the valley.
Ski resorts in summer
Both La Joue du Loup and Superdévoluy, the two resorts also offer activities in the summer. The mountain is increasingly popular throughout the year. This is why some ski lifts operate in summer and allow visitors to reach magnificent hiking trails that are difficult to access from the bottom of the slopes. You can also find activities such as downhill mountain biking, electric fatbike rides or even rail sledges.
Take the Col du Noyer to access the Dévoluy
There are several paths that lead to the Dévoluy massif. The first passes by Lac du Sautet, a magnificent place for an outing by electric boat or canoe. A second passes through the Col du Festre, a beautiful road along a torrent and leading to Veynes or La-Roche-des-Arnauds.
Sautet lake dam
Otherwise, the last possibility that I propose here is to go through the Col du Noyer which connects the Dévoluy to the Champsaur-Valgaudemar valley. This pass is only open on sunny days, when the snow has melted. Popular with cyclists, I recommend that you take this magnificent pass: the road is sublime and the view of the two valleys is to be seen. At the top of the pass, you will be at an altitude of more than 1660 meters, a guaranteed change of scenery.
How to come to Dévoluy?
The main solution is to come by car. You will be able to take advantage of all the places to see and the activities to do in the Dévoluy. Public transport does not serve this tourist area well enough.
In the event that you come to Dévoluy to ski, then you may have shuttles between the main towns and resorts.
If you come from afar, then it may be interesting for you to arrive by plane or train in Grenoble, Lyon or even Gap and then rent a car.
Go to the sources of Gillardes in the heart of Dévoluy
The Dévoluy massif is renowned for its wild spaces and lush nature. I invite you to discover this place, which is one of my favorite places in this massif: the source of the Gillardes. First of all, arriving at the start of the path leading to the springs, you will be surrounded by mountains with steep and impressive cliffs. Take the time to realize the grandeur of the place, because it is truly sensational.
Then, you can take a path for about 1 km to get to the precise place where this underground water emerges with a rather impressive power. A place that is both calm by its surroundings, but full of energy by these springs which gush out in an astonishing way.
The path does not represent any particular difficulties but unfortunately remains difficult to pass for wheelchairs.
How long to visit the Dévoluy?
The Dévoluy is not very extensive and there are few roads. You can therefore easily cross the Dévoluy during the day, while taking your time. For example, in one day, you can walk to the Gillardes springs, visit Mère-Eglise, stop at Superdévoluy and Joue du Loup. All while arriving via the Col du Noyer and leaving via the Col du Festre or the Lac du Sautet. Your day will be busy and you will have seen the main things to do in the Dévoluy.
Then, add visit days depending on the hikes you want to do in the area in summer. In winter, you can easily plan a week of skiing on the Dévoluy area, which is relatively large.
Stop at Mere-Eglise
Not far from the Gillardes springs, you can stop off in the town of Saint-Disdier, at Mère-Eglise. This small chapel, in the Romanesque style, dates from the XNUMXth century and is nestled in a small green setting, overlooking the valley. A peaceful place to see if you are passing through the region.
Admire the stars at the Pic de Bure
To finish on the things to do in the Dévoluy massif, I present to you the famous Pic de Bure. It is famous for various reasons. First of all, its majesty with its 600-metre sheer facade, a landmark for climbing enthusiasts; its summit at more than 2700 meters; or its vast plateau where a dozen radio telescopes are installed. This is also one of the main reasons that attracts many hikers each year. Indeed, the view from this plateau with these gigantic universe observation machines is incredible.
On the other hand, access to this place must be earned. Indeed, the different hiking trails are quite long and some require some experience and knowledge of mountain trails. But the reward is such that your effort is worth it.
When to come to Dévoluy?
There will be two preferred periods for going to Dévoluy: summer and winter. Indeed, the Dévoluy is as well known for its magnificent hikes and breathtaking landscapes as for its ski area.
So if you want to enjoy sunny days, plan a stay between June and September. Be careful, the snow can remain until May in the most sheltered places.
Regarding the ski slopes, they will be practicable from January to March.
Where to sleep in the Dévoluy?
Even if the Dévoluy is not very big and is located near cities like Gap or Veynes, you can perfectly plan one or more nights in the massif. In this insert, I suggest 6 different establishments where you can sleep in the Dévoluy and its surroundings: an apartment in the Joue du Loup resort; a bed and breakfast in the heart of nature; a more upscale hotel offering a beautiful spa area, an apart-hotel and two unusual accommodations.
If you want more choice, be aware that the majority of accommodation in the Dévoluy is located in the heart of the resorts and these are mainly apartments at the foot of the slopes.
the Neyrette
Here is a first accommodation ideally placed, at the entrance of Dévoluy when you arrive from the Lac du Sautet. It is located at the junction of the road leading to SuperDévoluy and that leading to the Joue du Loup. This charming hotel is in Saint-Disdier, a town where Mère-Eglise is also located, one of the sites to do in the Dévoluy. With a spa area with massages, indoor pool, sauna; and a delicious restaurant with local cuisine, this address is a safe bet for your stay in the region. Hotel See rates
Chalet Terra Loup
I now offer you a bed and breakfast located not far from Agnières-en-Dévoluy. You will stay in a chalet typical of the region. The welcome of the hosts is very warm. They offer a delicious table d'hôte as well as comfortable and clean rooms. Thanks to an exceptional location, you will enjoy a very appreciable calm. An ideal place to stay during your stay in Dévoluy. Guest room See rates
Celine's Chalets
Let's finish with this little favorite located in the Joue du Loup resort. This resort is renowned for its authenticity and its magnificent wooden chalets. This is why I have chosen to offer you these magnificent chalets. Each of these chalets can accommodate up to 8 people in 3 bedrooms. The chalets each have a fully equipped kitchen, a small cozy living room, a bathroom but also a breathtaking view of the mountains from the terrace! In addition, the owner of the premises is very welcoming and remains at your disposal throughout the stay. Cottage See rates-
Residence Odalys L'Orée des Pistes
Located in the heart of the SuperDevoluy ski resort and at the foot of the slopes, the L'Orée des Pistes residence offers apartments that can accommodate from 2 to 10 people. You will enjoy the indoor swimming pool of the residence and the nearby facilities such as tennis courts. This accommodation will be favored if you want to enjoy the excitement of a ski resort heart. Apart'Hotel See rates 
The Sailboat & Spa
Who would have believed it ? Sleep in a 12m sailboat in the vicinity of the Dévoluy massif! This is what the domain of Font Vineuse offers you. Sleep in an exceptional setting in the middle of a small pond surrounded by greenery. The little extra, access to a private spa. Unusual accommodation See prices
The Bubble Star Dome & Spa
Also located in the domain of Font Vineuse, this fully glazed dome equipped with a spa is one of the most beautiful accommodations around Le Dévoluy. Located in Saint-Pierre-d'Argençon, a short half-hour drive from the center of Dévoluy, this dome will allow you to fall asleep under the exceptional starry sky of the region. An idyllic accommodation in the heart of nature. Unusual accommodation See prices
Practical advice for visiting Le Dévoluy
When to come to the Dévoluy massif?
In fine weather for walks, so between June and September. Otherwise for skiing from January to March approximately. More informationHow to come to Dévoluy?
Without hesitation: by car! You will be much too limited in your travels without a car. More informationWhere is the Dévoluy massif located?
Just on the border between Isère and the Hautes-Alpes. More informationHow long to visit Dévoluy and the surrounding area?
You will be able to have a nice overview of the massif over a day. Plan extra days depending on the hikes you want to do in the area. More informationWhere to stay in the Dévoluy?
Several possibilities are available to you: guest rooms, lodgings, unusual accommodation, … More infoWhat are the must-sees in the Dévoluy?
The sources of Gillardes, the stations of Dévoluy, Mère-Eglise or the Col du Noyer in summer. Without forgetting the magnificent hikes to be done in the Dévoluy. See all activitiesMy opinion on this visit to Dévoluy
The Massif du Dévoluy was a real favorite in this tourist region. We were lucky enough to be able to enjoy it under a magnificent sun, with few people. From Gillardes, to the Joue du Loup via Mère-Eglise, all these discoveries each have their own charm and beauty. All in a dreamy mountain environment. Breathtaking landscapes throughout the massif. I also had the chance to ski in the Dévoluy and it's a real pleasure. Once again, the view from the slopes is sensational! The area is vast, which allows you to ski several days in a row without lacing up the different possible routes. So if you are passing through, I strongly recommend a stop by this magnificent massif, which is still very well preserved.
