Location and surroundings
Pointe de la Diablee belongs to the Eastern Gapençais Mountains, a subrange of the Dauphiné Alps in the Southwestern Alps, within the Western Alps and the broader Alps of France. At 2,928 m, it rises in a high alpine landscape of rocky slopes, ridgelines, and nearby passes. The terrain around it is shaped by closely spaced summits and saddles rather than broad lowland approaches, which is typical of this elevation in the Alps.
Neighbouring peaks
The mountain is surrounded by several close peaks and passes, with Mourre-Froid the nearest higher summit.
- Pointe de Reyna — 2,909 m, 1.3 km N
- Le Garabrut — 2,917 m, 1.6 km N
- Mourre-Froid — 2,993 m, 2.9 km SE
- Revire Souléou — 2,720 m, 3.4 km S
- Montagne de la Dent — 2,485 m, 4.0 km E
- Pointe de Serre — 2,909 m, 4.3 km SE
- Col de Roche Méane — 2,870 m, 4.4 km SE
- Col des Tourettes — 2,582 m, 4.7 km E
Compared with these neighbours, Pointe de la Diablee is higher than most nearby summits and passes, but it is slightly lower than Mourre-Froid, which rises 65 m above it.
The view from the summit
From the summit area, the highest peaks within 25 km are part of the northern alpine skyline. To the north lie Sirac at 3,441 m, 16.2 km away, Pic de Bonvoisin at 3,480 m, 19.4 km away, Sommet des Bans at 3,669 m, 22.3 km away, Pointe Guyard at 3,461 m, 23.5 km away, Mont Gioberney at 3,350 m, 23.9 km away, and Pointe du Sele at 3,556 m, 24.0 km away. These higher summits define the broader mountain backdrop beyond the Eastern Gapençais Mountains.
The range
Pointe de la Diablee is the highest mountain in the Eastern Gapençais Mountains, which contain 45 named peaks. Its nearest higher peak is Mourre-Froid, 2.9 km away to the southeast. Within the range, Pointe de la Diablee ranks first by elevation, making it the reference summit for this part of the Alps. The range lies in France, and the mountain’s position at its top gives it clear importance in local topography.
Climate and weather
At 2,928 m in the French Alps, the mountain has a high alpine climate with long snowy periods, cold nights, and rapid weather changes. Even in summer, wind, cloud build-up, and sudden drops in temperature are common at this height. Snow can linger on shaded slopes and in gullies well into the warm season, while winter conditions are severe and generally unsuitable for casual travel. Visibility can change quickly, especially on exposed ridges and near passes.
Best time to visit
For this elevation in the Alps, the most practical period is usually late spring through early autumn, when snow cover is reduced and daylight is longer. Mid-summer often offers the most stable conditions, though storms can still develop in the afternoon. In spring and early summer, lingering snow may make the terrain more demanding; later in the season, dry rock and loose scree can become the main challenge. Timing should always match current mountain conditions.
Nature and wildlife
The surroundings of Pointe de la Diablee are typical of high alpine terrain: bare rock, scree, short grass, and sparse vegetation near the summit, with more plant life lower down where slopes are less exposed. In this part of the Alps, wildlife may include chamois, marmots, alpine birds, and other species adapted to cold, windy ground. At nearly 3,000 m, the growing season is short and the landscape is shaped more by snow, frost, and erosion than by dense vegetation.
Guides and organised ascents
For a 2,928 m alpine peak with exposed terrain, a certified mountain guide is sensible if you are unfamiliar with the area, if snow remains on the route, or if you are travelling in a group that wants a safer pace and route choice. In the Alps, look for an IFMGA/UIAGM-certified guide through the national mountain guide association or local tourist offices in the area. A guided ascent usually covers route planning, pacing, hazard assessment, and equipment advice; cost depends on the number of days, group size, hut nights, and technical gear.
Safety and preparation
This height calls for alpine footwear, layered clothing, navigation skills, and the ability to handle sudden weather changes. Rock, scree, and lingering snow can all be present, so sure-footed movement matters more than distance alone. Start early, carry enough water and food, and be prepared to turn back if cloud, wind, or snow makes the route unsafe. In the high Alps, even short outings can become serious if visibility drops or temperatures fall quickly.
Interesting facts
Pointe de la Diablee is the highest of 45 named peaks in the Eastern Gapençais Mountains. It is also the highest point of that range. Its nearest higher summit is Mourre-Froid, 2.9 km to the southeast, and the range’s top peak is therefore very close by. The mountain’s alternative name, Pointe de la Diablée, is also used for it. At 2,928 m, it is a clear high point in its local alpine group.
FAQ
How high is Pointe de la Diablee? It reaches 2,928 m.
Where is Pointe de la Diablee? It is in France, in the Eastern Gapençais Mountains of the Dauphiné Alps, within the Western Alps.
What is the highest point of the Eastern Gapençais Mountains? Pointe de la Diablee is the highest mountain and the highest point of that range.
Which peak is closest and higher than Pointe de la Diablee? Mourre-Froid, at 2,993 m, lies 2.9 km to the southeast.
What are the nearest neighbouring peaks? Pointe de Reyna, Le Garabrut, Revire Souléou, Montagne de la Dent, and Pointe de Serre are among the closest named summits.
Is there water on the way to Pointe de la Diablee? High alpine routes here are often dry and exposed; any snowmelt or seasonal water should be treated. Carry about 1.5-3 litres for a day, depending on heat and route length.
When is the best time to visit? Usually late spring through early autumn, with mid-summer often the most settled period.