Plateau De Dormillouse
Plateau De Dormillouse
4.5
(1112)
8,039
hikers
22
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Plateau De Dormillouse offer a diverse landscape within the Hautes-Alpes and Ecrins National Park. The region is characterized by picturesque lakes such as Lac Faravel and Lac Palluel, impressive waterfalls like the Costeplane Waterfalls, and extensive forests of larch and stone pines. Hikers can explore alpine meadows and enjoy views of mountain peaks, including Sommet de Dormillouse and Col Bas.
Last updated: May 29, 2026
4.7
(31)
204
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(9)
100
hikers
6.98km
02:07
240m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.3
(6)
49
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.0
(1)
7
hikers
6.33km
01:43
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(17)
215
hikers
18.9km
06:37
720m
720m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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A nice little spot in the summer, but in winter the tables are under the snow
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This is a very beautiful 15th century church, very well restored
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This is a gîte run by two very nice young people. It's a very good restaurant at a very reasonable price
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A place steeped in history, it was once a hamlet where men and sheep lived in symbiosis. In winter, the setting is splendid.
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There are four tunnels, the smaller ones a few hundred meters long, the longest about 2.8 km! It was pitch black (yes, I had my bike lights on), wet, and dripping from the ceiling. I found it totally creepy and wouldn't go through it alone again.
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In September with a strong water flow, it's magnificent. Not to be missed under any circumstances.
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Beautiful work. With a strong flow and a beautiful blue sky, it's magnificent.
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Plateau De Dormillouse offers a good selection of trails suitable for families. Our guide features 23 routes in total, with 3 easy and 13 moderate options that are generally well-suited for family outings, depending on your children's age and experience.
The region is rich in natural beauty! You can expect to encounter picturesque alpine lakes like Black Lake, stunning waterfalls such as the Costeplane Waterfalls, and trails winding through beautiful forests of larch and stone pines, opening up to expansive alpine meadows. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like marmots!
Yes, many of the family-friendly trails in Plateau De Dormillouse are circular, making for convenient day trips. For example, the moderate Lac de Serre-Ponçon loop from Fort Saint-Vincent is a great option, offering beautiful lake views without retracing your steps.
Beyond the natural beauty, families can explore historical sites. The Dormillouse Battery offers a glimpse into the region's past, while the charming Dormillouse Village itself is a unique attraction, being the only year-round inhabited village in the Ecrins National Park accessible solely on foot. You can also enjoy the View of Lac de Serre-Ponçon from Fort de Dormillouse.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Plateau De Dormillouse, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 1100 ratings. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained paths, and the stunning views, making it a memorable destination for families.
Yes, there are several easier routes perfect for families with younger children or those looking for a less strenuous walk. While specific easy routes are not detailed here, the region offers a variety of gentle paths through meadows and along lake shores that are ideal for a relaxed family outing.
The duration of family-friendly hikes varies, but many moderate routes can be completed within 2 to 3 hours. For instance, the Lac de Serre-Ponçon loop from Fort Saint-Vincent takes about 1 hour 41 minutes, making it a great option for a shorter family adventure.
Parking is generally available at trailheads or near popular starting points for hikes. However, it's important to note that camping is generally forbidden in the Ecrins National Park, including near car parks, to protect the natural environment.
Absolutely! The Plateau De Dormillouse is known for its breathtaking vistas. Many trails lead to spectacular viewpoints, such as the Col Bas, which offers impressive panoramas of the surrounding mountains and valleys, perfect for family photos.
Yes, the region is home to beautiful waterfalls. While some routes might be more challenging, the Costeplane Waterfalls are a notable feature in the area. For a more challenging hike that includes these, consider the Costeplane Waterfalls – Roman Bridge of Lauzet loop from Fort Saint-Vincent, though be aware this is a difficult route.
Given the alpine environment, sturdy shoes are essential for all hikers, including children. Layers of clothing are recommended to adapt to changing weather conditions, and it's always wise to bring rain gear, even on sunny days, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.
For families with older children or those seeking a longer adventure, the moderate Great view of the lake – Lac de Serre-Ponçon loop from Saint-Vincent-les-Forts offers a rewarding experience. This route covers over 11 kilometers and takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes, providing ample opportunity to explore the stunning scenery.


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