Bonneval sur Arc in Summer
Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France and twinned with Les Baux de Provence, this village at the end of the world is a real gem nestling at an altitude of 1,800 metres. Against a picture-postcard backdrop at the foot of the Iseran Pass, the highest road pass in the Alps at 2,770 metres, accessible from June to October, Bonneval sur Arc was voted France’s 6th favourite village in 2015.
Just walk through the narrow streets where there are no electric cables to spoil your photos, look up at the “grebons” drying on the balconies, and admire the larchwood frames supporting the heavy stone slates, to get a feel for the soul of this village, its farming activity and its harsh winters.
Upstream, the hamlet of Ecot, which was used as a set for the filming of Belle and Sebastian, is a must to discover the traditional habitat typically found at high altitudes: low-built stone houses small windows and doors, and roofs covered in stone slate.
Ecot is also the starting point for hikes to Les Evettes or the Carro, as well as mountaineering races (Albaron, Ciamarella, Pointe Marie, Levanna).
If you dare, try the Ecot canyon descent. It presents no major difficulty and the scenery is outstanding.
If you feel like skiing, you can do so even in summer. Head for the Pissaillas glacier at the Iseran pass!
For an effortless exploration of the mountains, enjoy the challenge of climbing the Iseran pass on a power-assisted bike!
Take advantage of the shuttle bus to the Pont de l’Oulietta for hikes in the Vanoise National Park. This park shares a common border with the Italian Gran Paradiso National Park.
These flowery mountain pastures grazed by herds of cows contribute to the production of Bleu de Bonneval, the local blue cheese whose fame extends far beyond the region!
