In the heart of the southern Alps, the city of Briançon stands proudly amidst the mountain peaks, some of which reach 4,000m, Bathed in sun, Briançon possesses the ideal climate for those wishing to regain their health and offers 15 medical health centers. The easy going Mediterranean lifestyle emanates from the narrow streets in the center of this city.

The Briançon people are not the taciturn types of the mountains but are of a warm and chatty disposition, happy to talk about their region all in the accent of the Midi.

Briançon has been provided with a rich historical past; its high city which looks over the Durance River was fortified by Vauban.

To know more about Briançon's curious past one can visit the Maison des Templiers, the church of the Cordeliers, and the chapel of the Pénitents, Less well known but just as interesting, some of the local associations have worked together to help shed light on the old times and ways of Briançon (the costumes, family life, trades, crafts, the old mines and the irrigation canals).

Throughout the years Briançon has become as animated in the summer as it is in the winter. Mountain lovers are won over by the vast nature parks which give sanctuary to fauna and flora; skiers are gratified with the 250km. of slopes at the Serres Chevalier ski resort.

Hikers are in a quandary when having to choose from the park of Ecrins, the park of Queyras, or the valleys of Clairée, Guisane, Nevache or Vallouise!

After all this healthy exercise one can then order without guilt the Vauban menu : 17th century dishes researched by local chefs and adapted to today's techniques.

Historical sites to see:

The 18th c. Collegiate church, the fortress, the 15th and 16th c.
murals of the Cordeliers church.

Museums, excursions:

The Cité Vauban (skiing exhibition), the Ecrins park center.

Activities:

Winter sports: cross country skiing, alpine skiing of all kinds.
Mountain climbing, trekking, frozen waterfall climbing !
Water sports, Rafting, kayaking, swimming pool.
Horseback riding, tennis, an 18 hole golf course
Paragliding, ULM flying.

Accommodation :

20 hotels, 2 campgrounds, furnished apartments and rooms,
gites, 27 restaurants.