Home / Lifestyle / Queyras: The Undiscovered Gem of the French Alps
Queyras: The Undiscovered Gem of the French Alps
29 Jul
Summary
- Queyras is a little-known regional natural park in the French Alps
- The region offers blue-green lakes, mountain views, and traditional villages
- Visitors can enjoy hiking, cheese, and a sense of isolation in this unspoiled area
In September, the author and their husband embarked on a six-day hiking trip through the Queyras region of the French Alps. This little-known natural park, bordered by Italy and barricaded by towering peaks, has remained largely undiscovered by outsiders, preserving its rural character for centuries.
The couple's journey took them through picturesque villages, over high mountain passes, and past blue-green lakes. They savored fresh baguettes, local gruyère cheese, and other regional delicacies, often with no other hikers in sight. Despite its proximity to popular Alpine destinations, Queyras remains blissfully uncrowded, with only around 2,000 tourist beds in the entire park.
The trip offered a chance to immerse in the region's traditional way of life, from the centuries-old farmhouses to the communal village ovens. Highlights included the stunning views from the 2,651-meter Col des Estronques and the brilliantly colored Lac Grand Laus. By following the suggestions of a local gîte owner, the couple also discovered hidden gems like the serene Lac du Petit Malrif, where they had the tranquil mountain setting all to themselves.
With its unspoiled landscapes, rich history, and lack of crowds, Queyras emerges as a true gem of the French Alps, offering visitors an opportunity to escape the beaten path and experience the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
