One Of The Highest Villages In Europe Is A Cozy And Gorgeous Haven In The French Alps

The French Alps might be on your travel bucket list for the chaos and charm of the Tour de France sidelines, or perhaps for a winter escape to one of France's glamorous ski resorts. While those are reasons enough to visit, it's worth carving out time for underrated French destinations. Saint-Véran — a village perched more than 6,500 feet high and known as the highest village in Europe – has fewer than 300 residents but endless mountain charm. Wooden chalets with carved balconies cling to the slopes, and every view seems made for a postcard. Come in winter for cozy firesides and snow-laden peaks, or return in summer to hike among wildflowers and grazing sheep — it's the kind of place that rewards repeat visits.

Wander through the village to discover its five original hamlets, each marked by its own carved wooden fountain. Another quirky, small town tidbit: Saint-Véran is known for its sundials, some historical, others more modern, all beautiful and worth the scavenger hunt. 

Saint-Véran is easiest to reach by car and is about three-and-a-half hours from Turin, Grenoble, and Marseille. Plan to stay a few nights at one of the town's tucked-away alpine hotels. Yak Avenir, a cozy mountain lodge just outside town, earns praise for its generous hosts and home-cooked meals. For something more indulgent, the Hôtel Alta Peyra offers ski-in, ski-out access, a serene spa, and a heated pool with panoramic mountain views — TripAdvisor users say you can ski right down to the bar.

For such a small village, Saint-Véran packs in a surprising number of events. Trail runners, take note: the Grand Raid du Guillestrois-Queyras in July offers distance races starting at 15.5 miles, plus ultra marathons as far as 105 miles — for those who truly can't get enough of the Alps. In August, the Trail des Étoiles provides slightly gentler options — from six to 35 miles — but the same sweeping views and warm, community spirit. Both are great opportunities to experience local alpine life up close.

For those who prefer a slower pace, the area offers some of the most beautiful hiking trails in France. One standout is the eight-mile circuit from Le Pied du Mélezet, which passes both Lac Miroir and Lac Sainte-Anne — two tranquil alpine lakes perfect for a picnic or a quick (if chilly!) swim. Keep an eye out for the tiny chapel beside Lac Sainte-Anne. Closer to town, the Saint-Véran Loop begins in the village center and takes about 90 minutes to complete. In winter, it transforms into a snowshoeing trail winding through silent forests and past frozen streams.

The Guillestrois-Queyras tourism board highlights snowy slopes and year round adventure – and Saint-Véran delivers exactly that. Skiers will find rental shops and lessons for all levels, while snowshoeing tours ($55 for adults, $40 for children) offer a quieter way to explore the mountains. Limited to 10 participants, these day trips climb roughly 2,000 feet and reward you with crisp air, views of distant peaks, and a guide full of enthusiasm and alpine lore. Nature lovers can also join year-round wildlife walks with a naturalist guide who helps spot tracks, tufts of fur, or tell-tale chew marks — proof of mountain hares, chamois, or even the occasional ibex.

For something truly out of the ordinary, book an overnight stay at the Saint-Véran Observatory, perched at nearly 10,000 feet. The experience includes sunset stargazing, a visit to the observatory's 620 mm telescope, and stories from an on-site astronomer. After a picnic dinner and a night in simple bunk beds, wake early to witness the rare "green ray" — a flash of emerald light that appears just as the sun rises. Advance booking is essential (around $138 for adults, $98 for children), and plenty of warm layers are a must.