Stillness and contemplation, this original, centuries-old village offers a calm, soothing vacation spot. Close to the forest and the Chagne torrent that runs through it, Vars Saint Marcellin is the perfect place to disconnect from everyday life, while still being within easy reach of the resort’s living spaces thanks to shuttle buses that keep you connected.
The more curious will discover the sculptures created by a local artist who has literally populated the hamlet with his imaginary characters who are now part of everyday life. An opportunity to meet the locals and soak up the conviviality of the place.
Vars Saint Marcellin
Our heritageSaint Marcellin is the first Vars to be discovered on the north side of the pass road. A crossing through the heart of the village reveals the facades of wooden chalets and old houses on either side. It’s worth taking the time to stop and discover the richness of the village’s heritage, and to go beyond the crossing street to familiarize yourself with the oldest of our villages.
A little history
Saint Marcellin, patriarch of the Vars
A LITTLE HISTORY
Vars Saint Marcellin, the gateway to Vars at an altitude of 1600 m, is the oldest village and the commune’s memory, starting with its church. As it stands today, it dates back to the 18th century, although some highly interesting architectural features date back to earlier times (the portal surmounted by a semicircular arch and the two lions adorning the entrance, carved in pink marble from the Guillestre quarry by Lombard sculptors, and the 13th-century capitals of the choir) and paintings whose renovation will reveal their beauty in the light. In the past, the Church of Notre Dame has suffered the ravages of time and history, including the sacking by the Duke of Savoy’s armies in 1692 when they intruded into the Hautes Alpes via the Col de Vars.
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To enjoy beautiful views of the village of Saint Marcellin, simply head up the Chagne towards the “Forest”:
A road allows you to gain height and complete a pretty tour between the villages of Vars Sainte Marie and Vars Saint Marcellin linked by the torrent.
Only a few ruins remain of this castle dating back to the 11th century.
It was destroyed in 1577 on the orders of the Archbishop of Embrun during the Wars of Religion, to prevent it falling into the hands of the Reformed.
Today, strengthened by this history, the lieu-dit du château is a pleasant walk that provides access to this 360° promontory overlooking the Vars and Durance valleys.
Practical Information
A free shuttle service is provided by the commune of Vars to enable you to get around in and between the villages. As the ski area is not directly accessible from Vars Saint Marcellin, this regular shuttle service gives you easy access to the slopes without taking your vehicle.
(timetable to come)
If your accommodation does not have a private parking lot, we advise you to park your vehicle in the parking lots available at the entrance and exit of the village.
Vars Saint Marcellin offers direct access to the Forest area and several hiking & snowshoeing trails. Don’t hesitate to consult our map before setting off.
Always more
Esprit Villages
We also love it for this: Vars has all the assets of a major resort combined with the charms of mountain villages. Discover what makes our region so charming.