Situated in the French Alps near the town of Gap, the charming cliff top village of Embrun is a popular day trip destination for visitors to this mountainous region of France. While there may be few amenities, there are more than enough shops or cafes to provide you with a lunchtime snack, and the view from the village makes heading off the beaten track worthwhile. Embrun is located on the shores of one of the largest artificial lakes in Europe, and is a major centre for not only water sports but other outdoor activities. Anyone who enjoys hiking, cycling or more extreme sports such as climbing and kayaking will be spoilt for choice when it comes to the range of outdoor pursuits available in the hills and mountains around Embrun.
Embrun itself is a pretty and charming village, typical of the hill top communities that can be found throughout the Alps and south into Provence. You can get a free map of the town from the local tourist office, now housed in one of Embrun's historic churches, or you can just discover the village at your own pace, wandering the narrow medieval streets and stumbling on picturesque courtyards hidden among the historic buildings. The main pedestrian street is now packed with tourist shops, but the weekly market, that takes place in the Place E.Barthelon, gives visitors the chance to buy some genuine local produce. Embrun's ancient church is probably the main attraction, and is particularly fine example of local architecture, featuring carved lions and rose-coloured columns.
Only a small part of the original fortifications are still standing, including the 12th century Tour Brune which is hidden away behind the church. Much of the rest of Embrun was built in later centuries; the tree-lined avenues, fountains and public parks have more of a 17th century feel to them. In fact, one of the most pleasant parks in the town also offers the best views of the surrounding countryside, perched at the edge of the “roc” or cliff next to the church.
An artificial lake created by a hydroelectric power scheme, the Lac de Serre Poncon is now one of Embrun's most popular tourist attractions. Several communities were flooded with the creation of this huge body of water, and one of them, Savines, has been rebuilt on the shore of the lake as Savines-le-Lac. The Chapelle Saint Michel that once towered over the area on a hilltop is now a small island in the middle of the Lac de Serre Poncon. You can take boat trips around the lake and out to the island, while other water sports, such as wind surfing, fishing and swimming, are also popular, especially in the warmer summer months.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Embrun? Then below is a selection of gites in Embrun and villas in Embrun that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
