History of Serre Chevalier and Its Hamlets

The Serre Chevalier valley runs through the Hautes-Alpes, along the Guisane river, between Briançon and the Col du Lautaret. Best known today for its ski area, it is first and foremost a mountain valley that has been inhabited for centuries, where villages, hamlets and chapels tell the story of pastoral life and exchanges with neighbouring Italy.

Briançon, a mountain town with a Vauban heritage

Briançon, at the entrance to the valley, is known as one of the highest towns in France. Its strategic position near the border led to it being fortified. The structures designed by Vauban in the 17th century are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The old town, the Cité Vauban, is best explored on foot, among cobbled lanes, ramparts and small squares.

Saint-Chaffrey and Chantemerle

Saint-Chaffrey is a village in the Guisane valley on which Chantemerle, also known as Serre Chevalier 1350, depends. Chantemerle is one of the main access points to the ski area, with its gondola lift. In summer, its trails, walks and terraces attract hikers, cyclists and families.

La Salle-les-Alpes and Villeneuve

The village of La Salle-les-Alpes is better known through its centre, Villeneuve, which is lively in season with its shops, restaurants and bars. The old village and its church are a reminder of the valley’s rural roots, before skiing arrived.

Le Monêtier-les-Bains and its hamlets

At the head of the valley, Le Monêtier-les-Bains takes its name from its hot springs, now showcased by the Grands Bains du Monêtier. The commune includes several hamlets, among them Le Casset and Les Guibertes, which keep the charm of Alpine villages. Higher up, the road leads to the Col du Lautaret, a legendary pass for cyclists and botany lovers.

From farming valley to ski resort

For a long time focused on livestock farming, mountain crops and passing trade, the valley opened up to tourism and skiing in the 20th century. Ski lifts gradually linked the villages, until they formed the Serre Chevalier Vallée – Briançon ski area, named after the summit that overlooks the valley. This history explains the valley’s distinctive character: a resort made of real villages, which also live outside the season.

Cafés, bars and meeting places in the valley

Here are a few cafés and bars mentioned by tourist guides and the tourist office, from Briançon to Le Monêtier-les-Bains. The list is not exhaustive and venues can change from one season to the next: remember to check their opening hours before dropping by.

Briançon: Bar Central, Le 1420, Saloon, Duo, Spirit.

Saint-Chaffrey and Chantemerle: Le Trappeur, The Sister’s Pub, Extreme Bar, The Saloon, O’Sullivans.

La Salle-les-Alpes and Villeneuve: La Grotte (lagrotte-serrechevalier.com), Le Frog, Le Mojo, LB Bar, Noctambule, La Baïta.

Le Monêtier-les-Bains: Que Tal, L’Alpen, Rif Blanc, SNØ Bar.

And for quality coffee, a homemade 40 cm pizza or a break with board games, Heidi Kitchen welcomes you every day from 11am to 9pm. Our pizzeria Pizza Plus is also worth a visit.

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