The Queyras was one of the last alpine regions to be opened to public tourism towards the end of the 20th century, which has helped preserve its unspoiled nature. A large portion of the area is designated as a regional park, balancing the protection of wildlife with traditional human activities. The region is home to several picturesque villages, including Ceillac and Saint Véran, which, despite experiencing significant depopulation over the past 200 years, have seen a resurgence in population due to the popularity of skiing and other tourist activities. The villages of Queyras are steeped in history, with traditional dwellings, religious monuments, and other unique local buildings that have been carefully preserved.
The Queyras region boasts a privileged climate, benefiting from its southeastern location within the Alpine chain and the protective influence of the surrounding mountains. Unlike many other alpine regions, the Queyras enjoys nearly 300 days of sunshine each year, making it one of the sunniest areas in the Alps. The Atlantic weather systems are significantly weakened by the time they reach this part of the southern Alps, resulting in much lower rainfall compared to the mountains further north and west. The valleys of Queyras receive only about 700mm of precipitation annually, much of which falls as snow during winter.
Summers in the Queyras are warm but rarely hot, with maximum daytime temperatures in the mid-twenties, even at higher altitudes. This makes it an ideal destination for walking holidays from mid-June to mid-September, the period when the winter snow has mostly melted, and the trails are accessible. Nighttime temperatures can be cool, with frost possible at higher elevations. While snow can fall at altitudes above 2000m at any time of the year, it typically melts quickly in the Queyras. A notable weather phenomenon in the region is the "Nebbia," which occurs when water vapour from Italy's Po basin condenses into thick banks of cloud that roll into the mountains, sometimes affecting visibility on the summits near the Italian border.
The high levels of sunshine also influenced the location of villages in the Queyras, with Saint Véran, situated at 2020m, being the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe. Despite its altitude, temperatures in Saint Véran are comparable to those in much lower-altitude villages elsewhere in the Alps, making it a pleasant and unique place to explore.
The Queyras region is deeply rooted in traditional alpine agriculture, which has shaped its unique and authentic culinary offerings. The area is particularly known for its cheeses, such as Fontu, Tomme, and Bleu de Queyras, which are made from milk collected in the high pastures during the summer months. The region's honey is another local delicacy, produced from hives that are moved to higher altitudes to take advantage of the blooming alpine meadows. This seasonal migration of hives results in honey with distinct flavours that reflect the diverse flora of the region.
In addition to cheese and honey, the Queyras is famous for its traditional woodcarving, a craft that has been practiced for centuries. Local artisans create a variety of wooden items, including toys, furniture, and decorative pieces, often adorned with intricate carvings that reflect the daily life and natural surroundings of the Queyras. These items are commonly found in local shops and markets, offering visitors a chance to take home a piece of the region's cultural heritage.
The region's gastronomy is also influenced by its geographical location, with a blend of French and Italian culinary traditions. This fusion is evident in dishes that combine the heartiness of alpine cuisine with the flavours of Mediterranean herbs and ingredients. The use of locally sourced produce, such as potatoes, cabbage, and game, ensures that the cuisine of Queyras remains closely tied to the land and its seasonal cycles.
The Queyras Regional Park spans approximately 650 km² in the Southern French Alps, offering a dramatic and varied landscape that is both rugged and serene. The park is located along the border with Italy, with the mighty Mont Viso, at 3841m, standing as the most prominent peak in the region. The Queyras is characterized by a mix of deep valleys, high-altitude plateaus, and soaring mountain ridges, making it a paradise for walkers and nature enthusiasts.
The region's geography is marked by its diversity, with alpine meadows giving way to rocky deserts and barren wildernesses, such as the Casse Deserte, a striking landscape of fallen rocks and jagged peaks that resembles the American Wild West. The area is also home to numerous crystal-clear lakes, such as those found in the remote and wild Bouchouse Valley, offering stunning vistas and peaceful spots for reflection.
The Queyras' villages, including Saint Véran and Ceillac, are situated at high altitudes, taking advantage of the region's sunny climate. These villages are surrounded by endless rugged peaks and are connected by a network of well-maintained trails that lead through some of the most beautiful and untouched parts of the Alps. The area's architecture is distinctive, with traditional houses built from stone and wood, featuring high pointed haylofts supported by beams and columns. These buildings reflect the region's agricultural heritage and have been carefully preserved to maintain the authentic character of the Queyras.
The history of the Queyras region is as rich and varied as its landscape. The earliest evidence of human presence in the area dates back to around 1,500 BC, with significant developments occurring during the Roman era. The village of Escoyères, for example, was a major centre of activity, as evidenced by inscriptions that have been reused in the local chapel. However, it was not until the 12th or 13th centuries that many of the villages we see today began to take shape, with Arvieux, Molines, and Château-Queyras being among the most important.
Historically, the Queyras was primarily an agricultural area, with high pastures used for grazing during the summer months. The region also had a strong tradition of artisanal crafts, including woodcarving and the production of honey, which continue to thrive today thanks to tourism. The area became part of France in 1349 as part of the Dauphiné province, and its relative isolation helped preserve its unique culture and traditions.
The Queyras remained largely untouched by modern tourism until the late 20th century, which has allowed it to retain much of its traditional character. The villages, many of which experienced significant depopulation due to economic hardship and the impact of the two world wars, have seen a revival in recent years thanks to the growing popularity of skiing and walking holidays. Today, the Queyras is a protected regional park that promotes sustainable tourism, ensuring that its natural and cultural heritage is preserved for future generations.
The architecture of the Queyras' villages is a testament to its rich history, with many buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. These structures, often decorated with wooden crosses and other religious symbols, reflect the strong Catholic influence in the region, despite the presence of Protestant communities. The village of Saint Véran, for example, is renowned for its numerous sundials, a legacy of the area's connection to Italian artisans who brought their skills in religious and decorative art to the Queyras.