Abriès-Ristolas
Edited by:
Massimo Martini
Access
To reach Abriès-Ristolas, the most convenient option is by car, taking the road from Guillestre, which in turn connects to the motorway (Sisteron exit). The nearest railway station is Montdauphin-Guillestre, served by regional trains from Grenoble and Marseille. The most accessible international airport is Torino-Caselle (120 km), while in France the nearest is Marseille-Provence (220 km).
Introduction
Abriès-Ristolas is a French commune located in the Hautes-Alpes department, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. This charming mountain village, just a few kilometres from the Italian border, lies in the heart of the Queyras Regional Natural Park, a protected area known for its unspoilt Alpine landscapes and rich biodiversity. Ranging in altitude from 1,500 to 3,000 metres, the area is characterised by deep valleys, larch forests and high-altitude pastures. Historically, Abriès and Ristolas were two separate municipalities, united in 1965 to form the current administrative entity. Today, the municipality is a popular destination for summer and winter tourism, thanks to its isolated location and the perfect preservation of traditional Occitan architecture.
Description
The territory of Abriès-Ristolas stretches along the Valle del Guil, an area dominated by imposing peaks such as Monte Viso (3,841 m), which marks the border between France and Italy. The Guil River flows through the municipality, creating spectacular gorges and small alpine lakes, including the Lake de Roue, an ideal place for hiking and observing the local fauna. The landscapes vary from coniferous forests to expanses of rhododendrons, while in winter the snow turns the area into a paradise for skiers and snowshoe hikers.
The origins of Abriès and Ristolas date back to the Middle Ages, when these villages were important stops for pilgrims and merchants crossing the Alps via the Colle dell'Agnello (2,748 m), an ancient pass to Italy. During the 19th century, the local economy was based on mountain agriculture and the timber trade, while today it is strongly linked to tourism. Among the historical figures associated with the area is Émile Guigues, a Protestant shepherd who helped to preserve the local Occitan culture in the 19th century.
The municipality's economy revolves mainly around tourism, with numerous refuges, hotels and ski facilities attracting visitors in every season. In summer, activities range from hiking to mountain biking, while in winter, the Ski resort of Abriès offers slopes for cross-country and downhill skiing. Mountain agriculture endures with the production of cheeses such as the Bleu du Queyras and the Tomme, while local handicrafts are distinguished by woodworking and the creation of traditional objects such as the 'sabots' (clogs).
Occitan culture is still alive in Abriès-Ristolas, with traditional festivals such as the 'Fête de la Transhumance', which celebrates the arrival of the flocks to the summer pastures, and the 'Foire de la Saint-Michel', an autumn fair dedicated to local products. Typical cuisine includes robust dishes such as the 'soupe au fromage' (cheese soup) and the 'tourte aux blettes' (chard pie). Curiosities include the legend of the "Trésor des Templiers", an alleged treasure hidden by the Knights Templar in the valley's caves.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the municipality offers a network of marked trails, including the [GR58], a loop trail that crosses the Queyras, and access to the Sentiero del Viso, which leads to the slopes of the mountain of the same name. Viewpoints such as "Le Serre Soubeyran" offer breathtaking views over the valley, while alpine refuges such as the "Refuge de la Blanche" are ideal for stops during hikes.
Information
Area: 159.31 km²
Altitude: 1,513m
Maximum elevation: 3,302m - Punta Ramière - Bric Froid
Number of inhabitants: 379 as of 31.12.22
Name in dialect: Abrìas-Ristolas in Occitan
Inhabitants name: Abriessois(es)
Patron Saint: St. Peter (Abriès), celebrated on 29 June and St. Michael (Ristolas) celebrated on 29 September
Neighbouring towns: Aiguilles, Bobbio Pellice, Cervières, Cesana Torinese, Prali, Sauze di Cesana
Website: www.abries-ristolas.fr
Collections
cover: Abriès, Abriès-Ristolas Hautes-Alpes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France, 2007, BY-SA - Andrew Bowden
