The Ski Area Accessible Directly from the Catrems & Montagnou Hotel
Treat yourself to the peace of mind that comes with a prime location in the heart of the Southern Alps for your mountain vacation. Our hotel is located just 400 meters from the first slopes of Orcières Merlette, ensuring you quick access to the ski area as soon as the resort opens.
A comfortable, stress-free ski vacation
To make it easier to plan your days on the slopes:
- Ski Pass Service at the Hotel: Avoid the lines at the ticket counters! Order your ski passes directly at the front desk (at least 72 hours in advance) and pick them up as soon as you arrive. Our team will be happy to recommend the best trails based on the day’s weather.
- Equipment & Storage Partnerships: Take advantage of special deals with sports stores located on the slopes to easily reserve, pick up, and store your ski gear.
Dates d’ouverture du domaine
The ski season in Orcières Merlette is scheduled to run from December 12, 2026, to April 11, 2027.
If you’d rather book your ski passes on your own or recharge your passes:
- Online: Official Orcières Ticket Office
- On-site: Top-up kiosks are available at Espace Écrins, Queyrelet, and the Orcières Tourist Office.
- Ski Lift Contact: 04 92 55 89 80
Orcières Merlette 1850 Ski Area: Big-scale skiing under the sun
Perched at an altitude of 1,850 meters at the gateway to the Écrins National Park, the Orcières Merlette resort offers an exceptional ski area. High altitude, wide-open spaces, and the abundant sunshine of the Southern Alps combine here to delight skiers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned experts.
The Ski Area by the Numbers
- 52 ski runs for all skill levels:
- 10 green trails (gentle introduction)
- 17 blue trails (easy, smooth rides)
- 18 red runs (advanced skiing)
- 7 black runs (technical and challenging)
- Guaranteed snow: 70% of the ski area is covered by an efficient network of snowmaking systems.
- Steep slopes: Tackle up to 875 meters of continuous elevation gain on a single run!
A family-friendly resort with something for everyone
Get Started and Grow at Your Own Pace
- 4 safe learning areas: Located on both sides of the slopes, these areas provide a reassuring environment with specially designed introductory lift ticket packages.
- High-altitude panoramic views accessible to everyone: The blue runs “Bouquetins” and “Freissinières” allow you to ski down safely from the highest peaks in the ski area (Le Drouvet at 2,655 m and Freissinières at 2,725 m) to the base of the resort.
Thrill Rides & Freestyle Areas
- 2 Boardercross: Includes the famous Alizée Baron course, perfect for challenging yourself with family or friends.
- Fun Zone (16,000 m²): An area entirely dedicated to freestyle skiing, easily accessible via a rope tow and a ski lift.
- Camille Ricou Trail: An FIS-certified course that hosts national ski competitions and elite training sessions.
Delicious treats and sunny outdoor seating areas
On the slopes, treat yourself to a moment of relaxation on one of the three panoramic terraces, designed so you can enjoy the sunshine of the Hautes-Alpes.
To enjoy a meal with a view of the mountains, discover these must-visit high-altitude spots:
- La Bergerie des Baniols (2,000 m)
- The Rocherousse Chalet (2,280 m)
A Nordic Getaway in the Heart of the Champsaur
Beyond its vast downhill ski area, Orcières Merlette 1850 offers an exceptional playground for lovers of nature, contemplative activities, and unspoiled landscapes. At the gateway to the Écrins National Park, come try out or perfect your cross-country and ski touring skills under the sun of the Southern Alps.
Cross-Country Skiing: The Haut-Champsaur Nordic Trails
Whether you’re into skating (not ice skating) for the rhythm and cardio, or the alternative style (not the classic one) for a leisurely glide, the Drac Valley offers the perfect setting to let your skis glide:
- Nordic Ski Area at the Orcières Village Recreation Center: Located at the bottom of the valley, this site features groomed loops winding through larch trees, traditional hamlets, and frozen rivers. A peaceful setting suitable for all skill levels.
- Rocherousse High-Altitude Plateau: To ski with the peaks right in front of you and enjoy a 360° panoramic view, take advantage of the high-altitude Nordic trails, which are very easily accessible by gondola from the resort.
Ski touring: an adventure on the open slopes
For adventure seekers who want to make their own way up the slopes, Orcières is the ideal starting point for exploring the Écrins Massif:
- Marked & Safe Routes: The resort offers specially marked trails for skinning from the resort to the peaks (Drouvet or Rocherousse sectors) in complete safety, without encountering downhill skiers on the ascent.
- Off-piste and high-altitude routes: Accompanied by a high-mountain guide or a certified instructor, head out into the Reculée Valley or toward the Col de Freissinières to carve your best turns in virgin snow.
Safety Reminder: When ski touring outside marked trails, safety equipment (avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe) is required, and you must always consult the avalanche risk assessment bulletin (BERA).
Practical Information and PDF Guides
- Official Guide: Download the Orcières Ski Touring brochure (PDF)
- Equipment Rental: The resort’s partner sports shops rent out all the necessary equipment (skating-style and classic-style cross-country skis, lightweight touring skis with skins and detachable boots, and safety kits including an avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe).
- Instruction: The ESF and the Orcières ski guide offices offer introductory courses in ski touring (night ascents, getting familiar with the equipment) as well as advanced courses in cross-country skiing technique.
An Authentic Getaway:
The hidden gem of Serre-Eyraud (a 35-minute drive away)
For a day away from the crowds, treat yourself to a getaway in Serre-Eyraud, a picturesque resort village located just a 35-minute drive from our hotel.
Nestled at an elevation of 1,450 meters amid larch trees, this unspoiled hamlet offers a magical atmosphere. Its north-facing exposure guarantees excellent snow conditions across more than 600 meters of vertical drop, served by three historic ski lifts. A true haven of tranquility for peaceful skiing.
