Nestled in the Hautes-Alpes, La Grave is a singular mountain resort, perched at 1,525 metres altitude, at the foot of the imposing Meije massif. Known for its wild, preserved character, it attracts high-mountain enthusiasts seeking authenticity. In winter, La Grave is the sanctuary of experienced off-piste skiers, offering descents on unmarked terrain among the most demanding in Europe. In summer, the resort is a paradise for mountaineers and hikers, with privileged access to the Écrins National Park and its emblematic peaks. Far from traditional alpine resorts, La Grave offers an immersive experience in the heart of raw, majestic nature, with one of the rare direct accesses to a glacier, summer and winter alike.
La Grave
Overview
La Grave
📏 Altitude: 1500 m
🎿 Alpine skiing: 5 km
🌟 Resort style: Village resort
💰 From 66 €/day (2025-2026)
Overview of La Grave
The village of La Grave — once listed among the most beautiful in France — seduces with its traditional mountain architecture. Its cobbled lanes wind between stone houses, testament to a rich alpine heritage. Dominating the village, the 11th-century church of Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption offers an exceptional panorama over the Romanche valley. The absence of large hotel complexes gives La Grave an intimate and preserved atmosphere, where time seems suspended. The surrounding hamlets, such as Ventelon and Les Terrasses, add to the picturesque charm of the region, offering unbeatable views of the surrounding glaciers and summits.
Our review — La Grave
4.0/5
Ski area — key figures — La Grave
- 🌟 Village resort (Hautes-Alpes)
- 📏 1500 m Village altitude (3540 m Top altitude)
- 🎿 1 runs
🚠 2 ski lifts
Average lift age: 45 years
When to visit
La Grave in summer
During the summer season, La Grave is the ideal starting point for mountain lovers. Walkers can venture onto trails leading to exceptional sites such as the Lac du Goleon, nestled at 2,450 metres altitude, with an unbeatable view of the Meije. Experienced alpinists find challenges suited to their level with the ascent of iconic summits such as the Rateau or the Pic de la Grave. The more contemplative will appreciate walks along the Romanche, ideal for observing Alpine flora and fauna. The Cols du Lautaret and du Galibier are also close by, for ascending by bike or car.
🎯 Things to do in summer:
✅ Road cycling • ✅ Enduro MTB • ✅ Hiking • ✅ Glacier hiking
La Grave in winter
In winter, La Grave establishes itself as a destination of choice for experienced off-piste skiers. Together with Chamonix, it is the ideal spot for alpinism in France. The Meije Glaciers cable car transports adventurers to 3,200 metres altitude, opening access to vertiginous descents on unmarked terrain. Routes such as the Vallons de la Meije or the Couloir de la Banane offer impressive vertical drops and often exceptional snow conditions. It is strongly recommended to hire a high-mountain guide when venturing into this demanding environment. Ski touring enthusiasts also find their match, with routes leading to wild and preserved sectors.
🎯 Things to do in winter:
✅ Cross-country skiing • ✅ Ski touring • ✅ Snowshoeing
Skiing
Below is an overview of the ski area accessible from La Grave: La Grave (alpin).
Ski area — La Grave
⛰️ Altitudes: 3200 m – 3540 m
🎿 Alpine skiing: 5 km
💰 Day pass: 66 €
The La Grave ski area is unique of its kind. With only two marked runs, it is primarily dedicated to off-piste skiing. The cable car reaches the Meije glaciers, offering an exceptional playground for freeriders. The north-facing aspect of the ski area guarantees optimal snow quality throughout the season. There are no direct links to other resorts, although it is possible to reach La Grave from the top of the Les 2 Alpes runs.
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Ski pass prices — La Grave
Current lift pass prices for ski areas accessible from La Grave.
| Ski area | Day pass | 6-day pass | Season pass | Season (prices) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Grave (alpin skiing) | 66 € | 330 € | 1138 € | 2025-2026 |
Where to stay
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