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La Schappe: Briançon's Green Oasis

Discover Briançon's largest green space: a historic park offering nature trails, family activities, and a peaceful escape in the heart of the Alps.

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La Schappe is a large, verdant park in Briançon, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. Once the site of a thriving silk factory, it now provides a tranquil escape with walking paths, playgrounds, and historical remnants, making it a popular destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to La Schappe

  • Monday 8 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake, taking advantage of the park's tranquil atmosphere and scenic views.
  • Explore the walking trails along the Durance river to discover the park's diverse tree species and enjoy the natural surroundings.
  • Visit during the summer months to enjoy the open-air theater and snack bar.
  • Check out the tree-climbing activities, paintball, and mini-golf for family-friendly fun.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Briançon at Place de la République, walk east on Rue de la République. Continue until you reach Rue de la Schappe and follow it to 1 Chem. de la Schappe, where the park is located. The walk is approximately 20-25 minutes and offers scenic views of the town.

  • Public Transport

    Take a train to Briançon from major cities like Grenoble or Gap. From the Briançon train station, walk approximately 20-25 minutes to La Schappe, or take local bus line 1 or 2. The bus fare is approximately €1.50.

  • Car

    Drive towards Briançon via the A51 motorway from Grenoble or the D994 from Gap. Once in Briançon, follow signs to the city center and then to La Schappe at 1 Chem. de la Schappe. Parking is available near the park for around €2 for 2 hours.

Unlock the Best of La Schappe

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Discover more about La Schappe

La Schappe, Briançon's largest green space, offers a refreshing escape into nature with a touch of history. Established in 1815, the park's story is intertwined with the region's industrial past. Originally, the site housed a silk waste combing factory, known as a 'schappe' factory, which operated from 1842 to 1933 and employed up to 1,200 workers. The factory processed silk waste, a sector that faced increasing challenges in the early 20th century due to Japanese competition and the rise of synthetic fibers, leading to its closure. Today, La Schappe is a revitalized space where visitors can enjoy a variety of activities. Walking paths meander through the park, showcasing hundred-year-old trees and leading to the Durance river. A picturesque lake, adorned with a Japanese bridge, adds to the park's charm. For families, there are playgrounds and, for the more adventurous, zip lines and mini-golf. The park also retains echoes of its past. An aqueduct, once used to carry water to the silk factory, now serves as a walking path. Though a fire in 2014 damaged the old factory, plans are underway to convert it into housing and shops while preserving its original facade. La Schappe has evolved over the years, serving as a zoological park, a camping site, and even a sports field for local students. It remains a central part of Briançon, offering a blend of recreation, history, and natural beauty.

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