In this small French village at an altitude of 2,040 m, the air is so pure that it increases life expectancy.
Perched at an altitude of 2,040 metres, this small village in the Hautes-Alpes is distinguished by the purity of its air, which is said to increase the life expectancy of its inhabitants.
France is full of charming little unknown villages that still manage to protect themselves from the pollution and hustle and bustle of big cities. Among them, there are the village of Saint-Véran in Queyras perched at an altitude of 2040 meters in the Hautes-Alpes. What does this village have more than the others? First, it is located in one of the highest inhabited valleys in Europe, but above all, it stands out for the purity of its air, which would increase the life expectancy of its inhabitants, as reported by the media World Day Its inhabitants live long years in good health and often exceed the 100 year mark.
Saint-Véran among the most beautiful villages in France
One of the main factors in the longevity of the inhabitants of Saint-Véran is the quality of the air they breathe. Obviously, the higher you go, the purer and less polluted the air is naturally than in lower valleys or large cities. Studies also show that living at altitude improves cardiovascular function, increases the number of red blood cells and reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as hypertension and respiratory diseases. This air quality also allows for better oxygenation of cells, which makes us more resistant to infections. Also, in the Queyras valley, the sources of pollution are less significant than in a large city. Life slows down, without road traffic, without surrounding factories…
With its traditional wooden houses, cobbled streets and authentic setting, Saint-Véran is one of the “most beautiful villages in France”. It will particularly appeal to lovers of tranquility and nature. As Ouest France explains, Saint-Véran has a very particular organization in districts with bread ovens, fountains and mission crosses. The local architecture gives pride of place to old churches and decorative flowered sundials which are an integral part of the village’s heritage. The houses have retained their typical architecture made of very thick schist walls and stacked larch trunks. The highest point of the town is its astronomical observatory installed at an altitude of 2,936 m. The public can go there all year round to observe the stars. A visit to the copper mine, a historic site dating from the Middle Ages, offers a fascinating insight into the village’s mining history.
What to do in Saint-Véran?
In summer, Saint-Véran is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. With its many marked trails, it is possible to explore spectacular alpine landscapes, high-altitude lakes, and local wildlife. Mountain bike trails also allow you to enjoy the varied terrain of Queyras. In winter, Saint-Véran transforms into a charming winter sports resort, far from the large crowded resorts. The downhill and cross-country ski trails offer options for all levels, whether you are a beginner or an experienced skier. Snowshoe hikes and ski touring allow you to venture into wilder areas, where silence reigns. The snowy landscapes can also be discovered through dog sled rides or horse-drawn carriage rides.
In Saint-Véran, the village’s artisans perpetuate ancient know-how, such as the production of cheese or wooden craft products. Don’t miss out on tasting the local specialties in the village’s inns, such as Bleu du Queyras, a refined goat’s cheese.
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