
What could be more beautiful than an autumn walk under the blazing larch trees, accompanied by the scent of the forest, the peaks dusted by the 1st snowfall and the blue skies of the Hautes-Alpes? The autumn months are a particularly magical time to go out in the mountains: landscapes tinted with a thousand colors, a peaceful atmosphere far from the summer crowds, the freshness of the undergrowth...
Whether you're on a mushroom hunt, need a breath of fresh air or just want to take in the sights and sounds of nature, we invite you to discover the emblematic trails of Les Orres: Les Sources de Jérusalem and Le Méale.
Distance: 6.6 km
Ascent: 300 m D+ (elevation gain )
Duration: approx. 2h30 round trip
Level: easy to medium
Start: free parking lot at Prat Paisset, on the road between Les Orres 1650 and 1800
This trail is ideal for families, with children already accustomed to walking. Occasional walkers can also enjoy an accessible stroll while soaking up the beauty of nature. The forest track is wide and technically straightforward.
After a few hundred meters on level ground, the path climbs gently up to the Bergerie Gautier. You can take your first break next to this old shepherd's hut. The path then takes you to the tumultuous torrent fed by the Jerusalem springs. At this point in the hike, things get serious! The climb becomes a little more intense, all the way to the end of the trail. Follow the yellow signs: they'll point you in the right direction at every intersection.
You'll finally reach the waterfall, which emerges between two layers of limestone to flow into the torrent below. There's a fountain where you can enjoy the spring.
FOR HIKERS WHO WANT TO GO FURTHER :
THE MURETIER VALLEY
Distance: 11.5 km
Elevation gain: 695 m D+
Duration: approx. 4h30 round trip
Level: medium
From Les Sources de Jérusalem, turn back for 250 m and take the path on your right, towards the Muretier valley. The path winds through the forest and then the mountain pastures until you reach the bottom of the valley.
💡 WHY THE NAME "JÉRUSALEM"?
The Knights of St. John of Jerusalem, a very powerful religious, hospitable and military order that has existed since the Crusades, own property and commanderies throughout Europe. As early as the 13th century, they owned land in the parish of Les Orres, notably in the Muretier valley just above the springs. They had "rented" a mountain from the community in return for a rent (300 livres). The spring thus took the name of "Jerusalem Fountain".
Distance: 9.15 km
Difference in altitude: 725 m
Duration: approx. 4h30 to 5h round trip
Level: moderate
Start: parking de la forêt, Chef-Lieu Les Orres (44.52987 / 6.54908)
At 2,421 meters, Le Méale is one ofthe most accessible peaks from the Chef-Lieu in Les Orres. It offers exceptional panoramic views of Lac de Serre-Ponçon, the Écrins and the Parpaillon massif. Autumn is a particularly good season for this climb, with often pleasant weather conditions and grandiose landscapes dressed in red and gold. This hike is for walkers used to sustained ascents.
Once you've parked in the forest parking lot above the village, head towards Le Méale. The trail climbs through the forest. At the Piste de la Platrière sign, there are 2 routes: via Le Serre, the trail is more direct, but also more technical. Via La Plâtrière, the profile is more gradual. Just follow the signs at each intersection.
The final, steeper part of the ascent is rewarded with the summit of Le Méale. From here, the view is breathtaking: Lac de Serre-Ponçon glistens in the autumn sunshine, while the surrounding mountains take on golden hues. It's the ideal spot for a well-deserved break, or even a picnic, while enjoying the silence of nature.
💡LA PLATRIÈRE
Along the way, you'll come across signs reading "La platrière". La platrière is that whitish area you can see from a distance, under the Méale. It's a former limestone quarry used to make lime. Mixed with water, this powder forms a protective layer used to cover the exterior walls of houses and stables. Lime is also used to cover some of the region's most remarkable monuments, such as the ancient Vauban fortifications.
Autumn, with its shimmering colors and peaceful atmosphere, transforms these routes into veritable tableaux vivants. Whether it's the Sources de Jérusalem, where an atmosphere of calm and serenity reigns, or the ascent of the Méale, with its impressive panoramas, these two hikes are a must for all mountain lovers. So put on your hiking boots and set off to discover the wonders of Les Orres in autumn!