Guide to Hautes-Alpes & Property in Department 05

Hautes-Alpes is a department in southeastern France, part of the larger Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Established in 1790 during the French Revolution, it is one of the original 83 departments of France. The department is situated in the southeastern area of the former Dauphiné province and the northern part of Provence. It borders several French departments, such as Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Drôme, Isère, and Savoie. To the east, it shares borders with Italy's Metropolitan City of Turin and Cuneo, both in the Piedmont region. Hautes-Alpes, as the name suggests, is located in the majestic Alps, with an average elevation exceeding 1000 metres and the highest peak exceeding 4000 metres. This department is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, which includes mountain ranges, shimmering lakes, and lush valleys. It comprises just three main towns—Gap, Briançon, and Embrun—each boasting its own distinct charm and Alpine atmosphere.

Alpine Towns and Villages

Gap, the capital of the Hautes-Alpes department, is known for its vibrant markets and charming old town. Embrun was the sub-prefecture until 1926, and Saint-Véran, a beautiful village in Hautes-Alpes, is the third-highest commune in Europe. In contrast, Briançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, impresses visitors with its Vauban fortifications and high-altitude appeal. The region also features picturesque villages such as Embrun, which overlooks Lake Serre-Ponçon, and La Grave, renowned for its incredible views of the La Meije glacier.

Economy and Local Delicacies

The economy of Hautes-Alpes mainly depends on tourism, agriculture, and artisanal small businesses. Winter tourism is significant, with ski resorts like Serre Chevalier and Montgenèvre attracting visitors worldwide. In summer, people enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and paragliding, making the most of the mountainous landscape. In the lower valleys, agriculture thrives, producing premium cheeses and honey. Local cuisine is hearty and includes dishes like tartiflette, gratin dauphinois, and diots (savoury pork sausages). While Hautes-Alpes is not a prominent wine region, it does have vineyards that produce unique mountain wines, ideal for pairing with local specialities.

Adventure Awaits in Nature

For nature enthusiasts, Hautes-Alpes provides endless activities, ranging from exploring Écrins National Park to enjoying water sports on the Durance River. With its stunning landscapes and opportunities for outdoor adventure, Hautes-Alpes is an excellent destination for anyone eager to experience the beauty and fun of the French Alps.

Key Information about the Hautes-Alpes (05)

Main City/Prefecture: Gap
Nearest Airport: Grenoble Alpes-Isère Airport or Marseille-Provence Airport
Population: Around 142,000 (as of the latest census)
Area: 5,548 sq. kilometres and 2,142 sq. miles
Landmark: Écrins National Park, a stunning protected area with glaciers, alpine peaks, and diverse wildlife.
Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 2.5 million, drawn by its ski resorts, hiking trails and unspoiled natural beauty.

Property Prices in Hautes-Alpes (05) in 2026

Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €2,807 (April 2026)
Apartments: average price per sq. metre: €3,209 (April 2026)
Price trends: +1% over the last 12 months, +41% over the last 5 years (Le Figaro - April 2026)

House Prices in the Main Towns in Hautes-Alpes in 2026

Average House Price in Gap: €3,138 per sq. metre (April 2026)
Average House Price in Briançon: €3,893 per sq. metre (April 2026)
Average House Price in Embrun: €2,863 per sq. metre (April 2026)

(source: Le Figaro Immobilier)

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