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European Heritage Days

Every year, European Heritage Days offer the perfect opportunity to rediscover the architectural and historical treasures that define the soul of our region. From iconic buildings to majestic mountain passes and fortified villages, the Hautes-Alpes throws open its doors for a weekend of immersion in the heart of our collective memory. Whether you’re a history buff, curious about architecture, or simply looking for ideas for family outings, the program promises to be exceptional once again throughout the entire department.

Let’s step inside the former Grand Hôtel Lombard in Gap

The Hautes-Alpes Development Agency is opening the doors to its own offices, located in an iconic building in the “gentle capital”: the former Grand Hôtel Lombard.

Built between 1924 and 1946 just a stone’s throw from the train station by Grenoble architect Georges Serbonnet, this building, with its remarkable Art Deco architecture, bears witness to the city’s tourism boom in the 20th century. During Heritage Days, visitors will be able to stroll through the spacious lobby, still featuring its original decor, and admire the former dining room, which now houses the offices of the Development Agency.

To fully capture the atmosphere of the Roaring Twenties, the former Grand Hôtel Lombard will host an exhibition of vintage vehicles and artifacts.

Please note: The upper floors will not be accessible in order to ensure the homeowners’ peace and quiet.

Places to See in the Hautes-Alpes

Beyond the Gap region, the entire Hautes-Alpes valley comes alive for this cultural weekend. Here are a few must-see stops to include in your itinerary:

  • The Briançonnais and the Queyras: A journey into the heart of Vauban’s fortifications in Briançon or at the fortress of Mont-Dauphin, both of which are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • The Embrun and Serre-Ponçon Regions: Visit the Notre-Dame du Réel Cathedral in Embrun, a masterpiece of art, or discover the secrets of the dam and the submerged heritage.
  • The Buëch and the Dévoluy: A getaway to Veynes and its Railway Workers’ Ecomuseum, or a detour to the abbeys and priories nestled in the mountains.
  • Champsaur-Valgaudemar: Immerse yourself in rural heritage with thatched-gable houses, traditional irrigation canals, and museums of folk art and traditions.
See all Heritage Days tours in the Hautes-Alpes

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