Hautes-Alpes (French pronunciation: [ot.z‿alp] ⓘ; Occitan: Auts Aups; English: Upper Alps) is a department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of Southeastern France.

This was because they hoped to benefit from the relative autonomy and certain fiscal privileges enjoyed by the region since the 14th century under the terms of the Statute of the Briançon Escartons.

Italy borders it on the east with the Metropolitan City of Turin and the province of Cuneo, region of Piedmont.

The Durance has been dammed to create one of the largest artificial lakes in Western Europe: the Lac de Serre-Ponçon.

The Queyras valley is located in the eastern part of the department and is noted by many as being an area of outstanding beauty.

In summer the Alpine scenery and many outdoor activities attract visitors from across Europe (sailing, hiking, climbing and aerial sports such as gliding).