Les Orres facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Les Orres
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A view of a hamlet in Les Orres
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 Les Orres
Location in France
Les Orres
Location in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
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| Country | France | |
| Region | Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur | |
| Department | Hautes-Alpes | |
| Arrondissement | Gap | |
| Canton | Embrun | |
| Intercommunality | Embrun | |
| Area
1
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74.79 km2 (28.88 sq mi) | |
| Population
(Jan. 2019)
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543 | |
| • Density | 7.260/km2 (18.804/sq mi) | |
| Time zone | UTC+01:00 (CET) | |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC+02:00 (CEST) | |
| INSEE/Postal code |
05098 /05200
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| Elevation | 1,198–2,914 m (3,930–9,560 ft) (avg. 1,460 m or 4,790 ft) |
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| 1 French Land Register data, which excludes lakes, ponds, glaciers > 1 km2 (0.386 sq mi or 247 acres) and river estuaries. | ||
Les Orres is a small and charming commune located in the Hautes-Alpes department in southeastern France. A commune is like a town or village with its own local government. This area is famous for its beautiful mountain landscapes and is a popular spot for winter sports.
Population
Les Orres is a small community. In 2019, about 543 people lived there. The number of people living in Les Orres has changed over the years. In 1962, there were only 170 residents. The population grew steadily, especially as the area became more popular for tourism.
| Historical population | ||
|---|---|---|
| Year | Pop. | ±% |
| 1962 | 170 | — |
| 1968 | 235 | +38.2% |
| 1975 | 307 | +30.6% |
| 1982 | 429 | +39.7% |
| 1990 | 455 | +6.1% |
| 1999 | 446 | −2.0% |
| 2008 | 516 | +15.7% |
Geography and Nature
Les Orres is nestled high in the French Alps. It is located in the Hautes-Alpes department. This area is known for its tall mountains and stunning natural beauty. The commune borders the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department. This means it is right on the edge of another beautiful French region.
The lowest point in Les Orres is about 1,198 meters (3,930 feet) above sea level. The highest point reaches an impressive 2,914 meters (9,560 feet). This big difference in height creates diverse landscapes. You can find deep valleys and towering peaks. The main village sits at about 1,460 meters (4,790 feet).
The mountains here are part of the Southern Alps. This region gets a lot of sunshine. It also receives plenty of snow in winter. This makes it perfect for skiing and other winter activities. In summer, the green slopes are great for hiking and mountain biking.
Transport
Getting to Les Orres usually involves driving through mountain roads. The main roads that pass through the commune are the D40, D540, and D740. These roads connect Les Orres to nearby towns and cities. They are important for both residents and tourists. They help people reach the ski resorts and other attractions.
History
The area around Les Orres has a long history. It was once home to an ancient tribe called the Caturiges. They were a Gaulish tribe. They lived in this part of the Alps long before Roman times. Their presence shows that people have lived in these mountains for thousands of years. They adapted to the mountain environment.
Over centuries, small villages and hamlets developed in the region. Many of these still exist today. The history of Les Orres is tied to its mountain environment. People traditionally lived from farming and raising animals. In more recent times, tourism has become very important.
Tourism and Activities
Les Orres is best known as a popular ski resort. It attracts many visitors during the winter months. The resort offers a wide range of slopes for all skill levels. There are gentle slopes for beginners. There are also challenging runs for experienced skiers. Snowboarding is also very popular here.
In the warmer months, Les Orres transforms into a hub for outdoor adventures. Hiking trails crisscross the mountains. Mountain biking is another favorite activity. Visitors can enjoy the fresh mountain air and beautiful views. There are also activities like paragliding and tree-top adventure parks. The natural beauty of the area makes it a great place for family vacations.
