In the heart of the majestic Hautes-Alpes, Lake Serre-Ponçon is an exceptional natural setting for a weekend escape. Set on the shores of one of Europe's largest man-made lakes, this destination promises a unique experience that blends adventure, discovery and wonder. Wild natural beauty, local cultural heritage, fine food and thrilling activities all come together to make a memorable getaway.
Pack your bags and set off on an adventure in the heart of the Hautes-Alpes. Ready for a weekend you won’t forget? Then follow us – we’re sharing all our best tips!
DAY 1 – Sightseeing and good food
Get young and old buzzing at the Apiland museum
Start your weekend by exploring Apiland, a captivating experience for the whole family. You’ll be immersed in the world of beekeeping, bees and biodiversity.
From the moment you arrive, two expert beekeepers will be your guides, sharing their passion for bees, farming and nature. An informative experience for all ages.
Let yourself be surprised by “Le Moulin de Célestin”, a carefully restored heritage site where history comes to life before your eyes through a moving show.
Don’t miss the temporary exhibitions, which bring something fresh to every visit.
Your day at Apiland will be an immersion in the world of bees and nature, creating precious memories for the whole family.
Le Rooftop in Embrun: a gourmet break with a view
At the restaurant Le Rooftop, the magic begins the moment you sit down to eat while taking in the panorama. You’ll be won over by generous, inventive cooking that showcases seasonal local produce. It is a true ode to the terroir of our beautiful southern region and of the Hautes-Alpes.
Enjoy your meal in complete peace, tucked away in a natural setting on the edge of the Embrun lake. A real gastronomic experience, with breathtaking views to match. Ready to unwind?
Muséoscope du Lac de Serre-Ponçon: a dive into history!
The journey continues, heading for Le Muséoscope at Lake Serre-Ponçon, which invites you to discover the fascinating story of how the Serre-Ponçon Dam was built and of the villages that were submerged. Through a trail of images and sound, this unique venue combines entertainment and culture.
Let yourself be carried away by the brand-new motion cinema, showing the film “Le Défi de l’Aigle sur la Durance” in 4D and 5D. An immersive experience that plunges you into the heart of bold challenges, such as that of hydroelectricity!
The Muséoscope is a window onto the past of the Hautes-Alpes, so don’t miss it!
A festival of flavours at the restaurant of Le Balcon des Écrins
Whether you choose to dine in our restaurant or order our packed lunches, our team invites you on a journey of taste through the best local delicacies. We are proud to introduce you to regional specialities such as the famous tourtons du Champsaur, delicious ravioles and the unmissable oreilles d’âne, all culinary treasures of the Hautes-Alpes.
As a committed part of the local community, we maintain close partnerships with many local producers, guaranteeing home-style cooking of the highest quality.
At the restaurant of Le Balcon des Écrins, you’ll get to taste the very soul of the Hautes-Alpes – enough to make your holiday an unforgettable experience. After this final stop, a good night’s sleep at Le Balcon des Écrins will be well deserved!
DAY 2 – A sporty day out
Hop on your bikes and set off to explore the Hautes-Alpes
Once you’ve collected your picnic from Le Balcon des Écrins, get ready for a day devoted to sport and the great outdoors. Thrill-seekers, we can only recommend a detour via the MCF mountain biking school.
At an altitude of 1,560 metres, the resort of Réallon is the starting point for an exhilarating adventure. The state-qualified MCF instructors will guide you along trails through the larch forest to the breathtaking panorama over Lake Serre-Ponçon.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, they will adapt to your level. Hire a bike, opt for an electric mountain bike ride or dare to take a spin on a twin-motor electric scooter.
Set off on a hike and discover Lake Saint-Apollinaire
To round off your weekend, here’s the icing on the cake. We invite you to set off and discover a well-kept secret: Lake Saint-Apollinaire. Often overlooked by the general public, this spot is a gem nestled in the heights above Serre-Ponçon – an unspoilt haven of tranquillity.
Perfect for a peaceful escape, this lake, a favourite with anglers and those in the know, nestles gently beneath the majestic Aiguilles de Chabrières. Its intimate atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for relaxing picnics or for savouring the stillness of late afternoon. A hike around this hidden jewel promises an enchanted interlude in the heart of the unspoilt nature of Serre-Ponçon.