The ideal campsite for hikers in the Hautes-Alpes
Put on your hiking boots and get your poles ready! Our campsite near Gap is the perfect base for exploring the trails of the Hautes-Alpes. Whether it’s a family stroll by the water, a challenging hike at high altitude, or a multi-day trek — this is the ultimate campsite for hikers in the Hautes-Alpes. At the crossroads of the Alps and Provence, the Buëch region reveals a unique identity where Mediterranean light illuminates mountain landscapes sculpted by erosion.
Trails for all levels starting near Veynes
The Buëch region offers a range of remarkable hikes, accessible as soon as you arrive at the campsite. The Sources du Buëch are also located along the GR 94 and the GRP Tour du Dévoluy. Here are a few routes selected by our team to guide you:
- Agnielles Gorges Cliff Trail: a short, easy loop, ideal for families and mostly shaded – 3.4 km with a 150 m elevation gain. Very easy.
- Furmeyer Botanical Trail: a hike of about 4 hours that can be done in all seasons, ideal for discovering the local flora – 8.5 km with a 430 m elevation gain. Easy.
- Clausonne Loop: a climb through the Gouravour Gorges to discover the Trompes du Faï, the charming ruins of Clausonne Abbey, and the old hamlet of La Péguière – 10 km with a 510 m elevation gain. Moderate difficulty.
- Oule Mountain: a summit south of Veynes offering exceptional views, from the Bochaine to the Digne Prealps – 9.5 km with an 800 m elevation gain. Difficult.
- Saint-Apôtre Loop: a slightly demanding loop from the town center of Aspres-sur-Buëch to the summit of Saint-Apôtre. A great chance to see paragliders taking off and incredible views of Dévoluy and Vercors – 10 km with a 720 m elevation gain. Difficult.
Walk through the heart
of the Buëch treasures
Our favorite routes in the Buëch Valley
Our team knows the area like the back of their hand and will be happy to recommend the trails best suited to your level and interests. Here are a few favorites:
- Sainte-Philomène Chapel Circuit in Montmaur: a short family walk of about 2 hours – 7 km with a 130 m elevation gain. Easy.
- Durbon Charterhouse: follow in the footsteps of the monks of the Durbon Valley to the ruins of the old charterhouse – 11.5 km with a 540 m elevation gain. Moderate difficulty.
- The Bans Trail: departing from Rabou for a loop reaching the old village of Chaudun via the Bans trail, nestled in the gorges. A cliffside path with several river crossings – 17.4 km with a 720 m elevation gain. Difficult.
- Pic de Bure via the Combe d’Aurouze: over 1,500 m of elevation gain and about 8 hours of walking – some snow patches are often present until June. Check conditions before you go; this hike is for experienced hikers only. Very difficult.
- Horseback riding: want to discover the region differently? Equestrian outings are offered by local providers in the Buëch Valley — ask at reception for details!
Family hikes around the campsite
Just a two-minute walk away, the banks of the Buëch and the Veynes municipal lake offer beautiful walks accessible to everyone. The game trails of the Buëch region are also an excellent option for families: in Veynes, Zozime the Alchemist waits for children to solve the Mystery of the Astrouille—a fun and original way to explore the trails as a family!
For guidebooks, GPS tracks, and IGN maps, head to the Sources du Buëch Tourist Office or ask our team at reception for advice.
The GRP® Tour du Buëch: a great Alpine trek
For fans of long-distance hiking, the GRP® Tour du Buëch is a must. This 225 km trekking route offers two distinct atmospheres: all the charm and warmth of Provence, alongside the Alpine world of the Dévoluy foothills.
This loop, which can be completed in two weeks, crosses sunny hills, gorges, secluded villages, geological sites of interest, ridges, and iconic spots like the Montagne de Chabre, the Méouge Gorges, the Orpierre cliffs, and the Col du Festre. And good news: a stage of the GRP® starts directly from Veynes – making Camping Solaire an ideal starting base for this adventure!
Between turquoise waters
and wild summits
Fauna, flora, and panoramas: nature in all its glory
The Méouge Gorges, a 45-minute drive away, are one of the natural wonders of the Buëch region. Classified as a biological reserve and part of the Natura 2000 network, they immerse hikers in true gems of aquatic biodiversity. In summer, their turquoise waters are a treat for the eyes — and for the feet! The site is home to a rare diversity of vegetation, blending Alpine, Mediterranean, and Provençal influences. Don’t miss the three-arched medieval bridge and the ruins of an old mill. Please note: access to the gorges from July 10 to August 23 is exclusively by shuttles running daily; parking on-site is strictly prohibited.
Local heritage is revealed in Orpierre, a medieval village famous for its climbing cliffs, and in Serres, whose narrow streets cling proudly to the rock above the river. These are cultural stops to combine with your hikes!
Practical tips for your hikes in the Hautes-Alpes
A few tips before you lace up your boots:
• best time to go: from May to October, depending on the altitude and difficulty of the trails
• equipment: suitable hiking shoes, plenty of water, sunscreen – the Hautes-Alpes sun is unforgiving
• guides and maps: available at the Veynes tourist office and the campsite reception
• local guides: mountain leaders and guides are available to organize your outings – ask at reception.
Want to add more sport to your stay? Find all our cycling routes on our Cycling Paradise page, and all the region’s activities and sights on our Buëch Region page!
find out more