Vallée de la Vallouise, U-shaped valley in Puy-Saint-Vincent, France
The Vallée de la Vallouise is a broad glacial valley with steep flanking walls that links several mountain communities. The Gyr River flows along the valley floor, bordered by slopes that range in elevation from lower settlements to high mountain terrain.
During the last ice age, moving glaciers carved this valley into its characteristic U-shape through continuous pressure and erosion. Remnants of this glacial activity remain visible in peaks like Glacier Blanc and Glacier Noir.
The communities here maintain Alpine traditions visible in their architecture and local crafts, which shape how the villages look and feel. Visitors can see these customs reflected in everyday spaces and gathering places throughout the towns.
In winter the area offers skiing opportunities, while summer brings many hiking trails at various difficulty levels. Most routes can be accessed easily from the towns located in the valley.
The Gyr River offers opportunities for water activities alongside hiking, something many visitors overlook when planning their visit. This creates a wider range of outdoor options than typical mountain valleys.
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