Vallée de la Clarée: Notable natural landmark, Haute-Alpes Be inspired!

On the Route de la Clarée, close to Montgenèvre and Les Alberts, lies an area called the Vallée de la Clarée. Referred to as one of the “Grand Sites de France - of exceptional natural highlights” (as listed on ‘France This Way’) and we couldn’t agree more!

That is why we, at Snow Cab, choose to be transfer specialists for the region, ensuring you of a safe and comfortable, stress-free ride to the destination of your choice. No hamlet is too small, not even Plampinet! The scattered villages of the Vallée de la Clarée are all destinations that we are more than happy to whisk you away to - we are at your service.

Vallée de la Clarée, its name derived, naturally, from its crystal clear river that flows through the valley, is an area of immense scenic beauty. Landscapes, meadows, larch forests, teeming with biodiversity. This is why it is no surprise that it is a very popular destination in the French Alps. Be sure to tread lightly though, pure and simple. The area’s elevation of 1,400-2,000m, with the mountain range Massif des Cerces towering above, is a protected and preserved area and home to many original, native French plant species and Alpine flora.

The Vallée de la Clarée begins very close to Briançon and extends for 33 km and incorporates the Alpine village of Névache, which is the central commune of the area, and includes the villages/hamlet of Plampinet, Val-des-Prés, Le Rosier and La Vachette.

The region in winter, Névache ski resort particularly, has a good snow record due its high altitude base. Known to be the training ground for the French National team, many skiers follow suit, as it is a well-known area for cross-country skiing.

In spring and summer, the Clarée River is a firm favourite for water sports. Other sightseeing spots and outdoor pursuits include the Fontcouverte waterfall; the various lakes; walks and hikes, and climbs and views of the mountains. Worth a mention too are the historical buildings, architectural heritage, churches, chapels and bell towers AND the sundials of Névache and Val-des-Prés! You will also, most likely, come across numerous ‘hidden gems’ dotted all over the place as you go about your adventures.

Autumn is an unforgettable time of year to marvel the spectaculaire colour change of the larch forests. The ‘Golden Valley’ is a treasure to truly behold.

Whatever the season or reason, your trip begins with us in mind – professional airport transfers, door-to-door - as well as other transport requirements you might have or day trips you may decide on while in the area. We will take you where you need to go.

On a final note, a holiday read, most definitely should be the Memoir ‘Une Soupe Aux Herbes Sauvages’, written in the 1970s by the late Emilie Carles, when she was in her 70s. This autobiography, published today as ’A Life of Her Own: The Transformation of a Countrywoman in 20th-Century France’. From pheasant origins through to her work as a teacher, farmer, mother, feminist and political activist, it is an insightful, captivating read that vivifies life in the tiny Alpine village of Val-des-Prés!