La Grave and La Meije: an adventure by van in the heart of the wild Alps

Between dizzying peaks and preserved villages, La Grave and La Meije offer an exceptional playground for nature lovers and those who crave wide-open spaces. In a van or motorhome, set off to discover breathtaking, accessible and authentic landscapes.

Welcome to La Grave, the gateway to a mineral and untouched world where La Meije, queen of the Écrins, watches over wild valleys and hamlets charming in their simplicity. Here, there are no overcrowded resorts or endless tarmac roads: just the essentials, 360-degree panoramas and trails that stretch into infinity. Ready to hit the road? Here are 5 must-see spots not to miss, all accessible by van or motorhome, to experience La Grave and La Meije like a local.

The village of La Grave

Perched at 2,100 metres, this alpine village with its raw charm wins hearts with its cobbled streets and stone houses. Its Saint-Victor church and timeless atmosphere make it an essential stop.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Municipal de Villar d'Arène Campsite ★ 4.8 Exceptional mountain setting with views of the Écrins National Park. New toilets, shaded pitches, 5 minutes by car. › Plan de l'Alp car park Villar-d'Arène Parking ★ 4.6 Large, flat and spacious car park, fountain and toilet. Narrow access (7.40 m tested), 5 minutes by car. › camping de la Meije Campsite ★ 4.6 Spectacular view of La Meije, pool and immaculate toilets. 5 minutes' walk from the village. › High-altitude restaurant parking La Grave Parking ★ 4.3 High-altitude car park (1,600 m) facing La Meije. Quiet, direct hiking access, 31 minutes on foot. › Camping Le Gravelotte Campsite ★ 4.2 Large natural campsite by the River Romanche. Free pitches, mountain views, 10 minutes on foot. ›

The Meije cable car

Embark on a vertical journey up to 3,200 metres, with an unrivalled view of the glaciers and surrounding peaks. The summit arrival offers a breathtaking panorama, accessible even to non-mountaineers.

Where to sleep nearby

La Grave ski lift parking Parking ★ 3.4 At the foot of the Meije chairlift, flat pitches and tap water. 2 minutes on foot, quiet and practical. › Camping Municipal de Villar d'Arène Campsite ★ 4.8 Mountain setting with views of the Écrins, new toilets. 5 minutes by car, ideal for comfort and nature. › High-altitude restaurant parking La Grave Parking ★ 4.3 High-altitude car park facing La Meije, absolute tranquillity and hiking access. 31 minutes on foot, free toilets. › camping de la Meije Campsite ★ 4.6 Spectacular view of La Meije, pool and clean toilets. 8 minutes on foot, alpine and restful atmosphere. › Roadside parking torrent La Grave Parking ★ 3.5 Large gravel car park by the road, soothing torrent. 6 minutes by car, wild and spacious landscape. ›

Lac du Lauzon

This high-altitude lake with its turquoise waters is a hidden gem, perfect for a picnic break or a peaceful walk. Its mineral surroundings and reflections of La Meije make it an exceptional photo spot.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Municipal de Villar d'Arène Campsite ★ 4.8 Municipal campsite at the foot of the Écrins, unbeatable views. New toilets, shaded pitches (48 minutes on foot). › camping de la Meije Campsite ★ 4.6 Spectacular view of La Meije, pool. Immaculate toilets, 7 minutes' walk from the village. › Parking at Lautaret Garden entrance Villar-d'Arène Parking ★ 4.9 Cobblestone car park at 2,100 m, glacier views. Absolute tranquillity, 7 minutes' access (7 km). › High-altitude restaurant parking La Grave Parking ★ 4.3 Car park at 1,600 m facing La Meije. Direct hiking access, free toilets (44 minutes on foot). › Camping Le Gravelotte Campsite ★ 4.2 Large natural campsite by the River Romanche. Access to the cable car, pool (19 minutes on foot). ›

The village of Villar-d'Arêne

This small, preserved hamlet at the foot of La Meije is a model of traditional alpine architecture. Its wooden barns and mountain setting make it a peaceful and photogenic place to explore.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Municipal de Villar d'Arène Campsite ★ 4.8 Municipal campsite at the foot of the Écrins, unbeatable views. New toilets, absolute tranquillity, 31 minutes on foot. › Parking at Lautaret Garden entrance Villar-d'Arène Parking ★ 4.9 Cobblestone car park at 2,100 m, glacier and peak views. Free, quiet, 6 minutes by car (5 km). › High-altitude restaurant parking La Grave Parking ★ 4.3 Car park facing La Meije, direct hiking access. Free toilets, 5 minutes by car (5 km). › Parking off-road Valloire Parking ★ 4.8 360-degree panorama, frequent marmots, free. 7 minutes by car (7 km), preserved nature. › camping de la Meije Campsite ★ 4.6 Spectacular view of La Meije, pool. 26 minutes on foot, immaculate toilets. ›

Col du Lautaret

This iconic pass between La Grave and Briançon, at 2,058 metres, offers spectacular views of the surrounding massifs. In summer, its flower-filled alpine pastures and hiking trails will delight nature lovers.

Where to sleep nearby

Parking at Lautaret Garden entrance Villar-d'Arène Parking ★ 4.9 Car park at 2,100 m with glacier views. 4 minutes on foot, free and very quiet. › Parking at the foot of Galibier Le Monêtier-les-Bains Parking ★ 4.3 Spectacular alpine site at 2,000 m, very quiet nights. 1 minute on foot, free. › Camping Municipal de Villar d'Arène Campsite ★ 4.8 Shaded municipal campsite, new toilets. 42 minutes on foot, unbeatable views of the Écrins. › D902, Valloire Parking ★ 4.8 Car park at 2,600 m with panoramic views. Dry toilets, quiet after 8 pm, 44 minutes on foot. › Col parking Villar-d'Arène Parking ★ 4.7 Car park at the summit of the pass, view of La Meije. Free, quiet despite the road, 2 minutes on foot. ›

See all spots on the map