Explore TERRA VERDON, Castellane's Hidden Gem

This 17th-century chapel is located at the foot of the Robion mountain. Part of it was built under the rocky overhang.

Pleasant path overlooking the Verdon, then passing through the hamlet of Robion, near the chapels of Sainte Trophime and Sainte Thyrs. From Castellane, take the route de Robion (D102) behind the swimming pool. After 2km, park in the parking lot on the left. Take the footpath on the right of the road below and descend to a small stream. The path climbs a little steeply and reaches the crossroads of the path leading to the summit of Montagne de Robion. Leave this path to the left and continue straight ahead. Enjoy a magnificent view of Cadières de Brandis and the small village of Taloire. At the next crossroads, stay on the same path to reach La Colle. Turn left downhill towards Fontpuge, where you'll find a ruined house. Follow the signs to reach the hamlet of Basse de la Doux. Then make a 90° turn to reach the small village of Robion. In the village, follow the D302 in the direction of Chapelle St Thyrs. Shortly before the chapel, a track leads off to the right, avoiding the road. End up at the chapel. Turn left to reach the junction of the D302 and D102. Turn right onto a small path under the road, which leads around a bend. Cross the road, the path bends to the right and, at the exit, turn immediately left to rejoin the signposted path. Rejoin the parking lot. Below is an alternative route: Take the small bridge on your right. After the bridge, turn left onto the track that leads to the Maison du Brec. After 2 bends, the path continues straight ahead; do not turn right as this is private property. Continue north-east to the Col de Colle Meillane. Take an old, faint path on the left, which runs under the power line. Note: if it's hard to find, continue along the track, which leads you to the road to the dump near the parking lot. Overlook the gorges, but beware: there is also a somewhat aerial passage. Rejoin the track and then the route de la décharge. Turn left onto the road to reach the starting parking lot. Follow the signposts, which take you along the departmental road, not too busy with cars, but not very pleasant.

Montagne de Robion (1660m) is one of the highest peaks in the Castellane commune. A 360° view awaits you at the summit ... From the municipal swimming pool, take the D102 towards Robion. Drive 2 km, parking on your left. Follow the path below the road. It leads down to the Rayaup ravine, before rising above the Verdon. After 1km, follow the path up to the left, leaving the Tour de Robion route. Continue up through the undergrowth to the pastures and then to the summit. Return by the same route.

The old paths lead to the isolated hamlets of Brandis and Villars-Brandis.

Climb to the top of a picturesque rock which, from its 180m will offer you a remarkable panorama on Castellane and the Verdon. From themain square go up the N4085 in the direction of Digne-les-Bains, past the tourist office, follow the national road going up the sidewalk. Pass in front of the St-Michel car park and, in front of a gas station, take on the right the ascending path to the chapel Notre-Dame du Roc. Follow the route along the ramparts and continue along a path (calade). Continue along the ramparts and pass at the foot of the pentagonal tower, climb the trail on a path of the cross staked with fourteen oratories. Continue the ascent to the crossroad between the access to the chapel and the tour du Roc. 1- Go up to the chapel Notre-Dame du Roc, overlooking the village located 180m below. Return by the same route to point 1. Follow the road to the left then, in 10m, take a right at the "Tour du Roc", a way back on Castellane. Cross the ruins, shortly after passing the old water catchment of a spring, the path winds, joining down a ravine. Descend this one to a dwelling access road, then a small road along the Verdon. 2- Take a right and after passing under the rock and in front of the bridge, reach the Boudousque parking lot. To join the center of the village and the place of the church by the street of the Lieutenant Blondeau, then the square.

Gradual ascent through forest with panoramic views over Lac de Chaudanne to the summit of Destourbes. From the center of Castellane, take the old Roc bridge. At the end of the bridge, turn left and follow the Route de Grasse for 50 metres. Cross the road, and follow the path up into the forest, mostly under cover. The route is clearly marked. Once you reach a turning point at the end of the track, follow the path above. Continue upwards through a series of switchbacks to reach the ridge. Following the ridge, you'll come to a large cairn, the summit of Destourbes. Return by the same route as the first.

Pedal at your own pace through a landscape dominated by the emerald green of the lake. Departure from Castellane D955 Le Cheiron: cumulative km 4 D955 Barrage de Castillon cumulative km: 6 D955 / D102 Demandolx cumulative km: 13 D102 Chaudanne cumulative km: 22 D4085 Chaudanne cumulative km: 25 RN 85: Castellane total km: 27.5

This route is a more difficult return variant of route no. 5. From the Blaches trail, a pleasant path leads to the Escoulaou area (a Provençal name given to the area's many springs) and then to the Cébière district. If you're feeling sporty, you'll complete this itinerary in 1 h

This itinerary leads by road to the hamlet of Brayal and returns to the village along small, fun trails.

The climb to the summit of Destourbes is progressive and offers a succession of panoramas on the reservoir of Chaudanne. From the parking lot of the Boudousque cross the Verdon by the bridge of the Roc, follow the D4085 for 50m on the left, in direction of Grasse. 1- Cross the D4085 and climb the path opposite in the forest towards the summit of Destourbes. The trail rises windingly and gradually under the pines. Several passages are still walled. The road is well marked. Reach and cross a forest trail above. Climb on the wide, winding path in the northeast slope of the mountain. A further kilometer will find an end-of-trail turn-around area. 2- Take the trail above and go back down slightly. Follow a long crossing. Continue the ascent through a series of turns before going to the ridge. Follow it towards the summit (grand cairn). Follow the markup! 3- Arriving at point 3, return to the starting point by the same route.

Taking the emblematic Blanc Martel trail without taking your car couldn't be easier, thanks to the shuttle bus and the Zou 450 regional line (ex BV1 )from Riez, Roumoules, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and Castellane. Shuttle service resumes on 28/04/2023. How does it work? The Zou 450 regional line links Riez to Castellane via the village of La Palud-sur-Verdon. From La Palud-sur-Verdon, the Blanc-Martel shuttle bus takes you to the Chalet de la Maline, the trailhead. The trail ends at Point Sublime (Rougon). For your return journey, take the shuttle bus to the village of La Palud-sur-Verdon and/or the regional line 450 to Riez or Castellane. Timetables... To ensure optimum operation, the timetables of the Riez-Castellane regional line (450) and the Blanc-Martel shuttle are coordinated. Online booking is highly recommended if you want to be sure of getting a seat! Please note that the shuttle does not return to Chalet de la Maline in the afternoon.

Municipal service area / camping cars Near parking lot and swimming pool Open all year round

Charming hotel in a former oil mill nestled in a large wooded park 10 minutes from the village.

Family hotel with outdoor pool and large terrace, at the foot of the village. This establishment has been awarded the "Accueil vélo" label and welcomes cycling tourists. The rooms (16 m²) with private bathrooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi access, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and air conditioning. A buffet breakfast is served on the poolside terrace or in the dining room. Private parking is also available. The bar at Hôtel Les Oliviers welcomes you for a relaxing moment by the pool. This establishment is certified Accueil Vélo, offering a warm welcome to cycling tourists. Hôtel Les Oliviers has been awarded Gold in the Éco-Défis program. This initiative supports participants in reducing their environmental impact. It helps to highlight partner businesses, strengthen team cohesion, control costs, and become active players in the ecological transition.

Spacious and quiet room overlooking a provençal garden. swimming pool with natural maintenance and an eco-bel. spacious and quiet room overlooking a provencal garden. swimming pool with natural maintenance and environmental practices rewarded rewarded by an eco-bel.

A quiet family campsite in the heart of the Provençal countryside between Digne les Bains and the Verdon. In the heart of Provence, a region renowned for its sunshine, blue skies and Alpine air, La Célestine campsite offers a variety of accommodation options on a flat 3-hectare area, located only 16 km from Digne les Bains. Bordered by the river Asse and close to the Gorges du Verdon and its lakes (Sainte Croix, Castillon, Esparron) the campsite offers many activities on site and in surrounding areas. Enjoy a 750 m² lake directly on the campsite.

Go rock-climbing in a natural and preserved environment in the Siagne Gorges! GO ROCK-CLIMBING IN A NATURAL AND PRESERVED ENVIRONMENT IN THE SIAGNE GORGES! Known for the untamed environment, the Siagne Gorges are made up of cliffs that are ideal for rock-climbing. Whether you are an advanced rock-climber or a beginner, your experienced monitor will give you all the necessary advice and information for a successful rock-climbing session. You will be accompanied throughout the stages of your ascent so you can climb in complete safety. Enjoy the adrenaline-filled climb and enjoy the panoramic views as you scale the cliffs. A sporty and pleasant experience connecting with nature awaits!

Discover the natural and preserved territory of the Siagne de la Pare on a thrilling day of canyoning! DISCOVER THE NATURAL AND PRESERVED TERRITORY OF THE SIAGNE DE LA PARE ON A THRILLING DAY OF CANYONING! Known for its wild landscape and translucent water, the Siagne de la Pare is a canyon bringing together aesthetic appeal and fun. With your monitor, discover the secrets of this stunning site. Swim in the clear-water ponds and combine the ingredients necessary for a successful canyoning session: waterfalls, natural slides, hikes and rappeling! Make the most of this adrenaline-filled outdoor activity bringing together nature and discovery!

Enjoy a rock-climbing initiation session in Cabris! ENJOY A ROCK-CLIMBING INITIATION SESSION IN CABRIS! With walls and cliffs at moderate heights, the rock-climbing site in Cabris is a fun course adapted for beginners. Spend a pleasant half-day, in the presence of an experienced monitor, and enjoy a day of discovery and thrills. Your monitor will give you all the necessary advice and information for a successful rock-climbing session so you can climb quickly in complete safety. Enjoy climbing up right in the middle of nature and appreciate this outdoor activity with family or friends!

An unforgettable ride through the Haut Pays Niçois and Haute Provence on the steam Train des Pignes or the locomotive. From the land of the olive tree to that of the chestnut tree, via Entrevaux and its citadel, immerse yourself in the charm of travel in days gone by. Retro ambience on the "Micheline" of the 1930s: - from December to April as well as September 20 and 21, November 2 from Puget Théniers to Annot - August 5 to 10 from Saint André to Thorame The Steam Train runs on all other dates. Several themed trains are proposed for 2025: Dance Train: May 4 Music Train: June 22 European Heritage Day: September 20 and 21 Olive Train: October 12 Halloween Train: October 26 and local events Saint Fortunat festival in Annot: May 18 Chestnut Festival at Le Fugeret: November 8

The Summit of Destourbes (1,545m) is the favorite peak of the inhabitants of Castellane. It provides a series of views over the Reservoir of Chaudanne.

To the north, Lake of Castillon, an artificial reservoir of water, looks like a small puddle in the middle of the first hills that announce the Alps. Its creation dates from 1948, but the construction of the dam began in 1929. It was given the name of the village which was submerged by water. Following the bar of Destourbes, you can view the hamlet of Eoulx dominated by its heavy square castle, typical of the 16th century castles to be found in the region.

Climbing on top of Destourbes you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the dam of Chaudanne. It is an arched dam built from 1950 to 1953. Located immediately downstream of the dam of Castillon, it limits the variations in flow at the entrance of the Verdon Gorges.

At the crossroads of the Alps and the Mediterranean, Castellane lies at the gateway to the Grand Canyon du Verdon. Criss-crossed by the Route Napoléon and classified as a Cité de Caractère, the lakeside village boasts an exceptionally rich natural and cultural heritage. Dominated by its "Roc", a gigantic 184-meter limestone cliff, the town spreads out around the Place Marcel Sauvaire. With its painted facades and picturesque fountains, the old town center is pedestrian-only. A 30-minute walk takes you to the Notre Dame du Roc chapel, whose terrace overlooks a magnificent Pentagonal Tower, the town and its ramparts, the Pont Napoléon and the entrance to the Gorges du Verdon. Halfway between the Alps and the Mediterranean, Castellane lives its life with dynamism, skilfully blending the riches of its past, its tourist vocation and its many activities. Castellane is located in the Parc Naturel Régional du Verdon and in the heart of the Réserve Naturelle Géologique de Haute-Provence.

A point of departure, welcome and discovery, it opens its doors to the natural and cultural riches of the Verdon territory thanks to exhibitions, 1000 tips from the Parc du Verdon, a shop and activities throughout the year. Located in the center of the village of Castellane, the Maison Nature & Patrimoines consists of two main exhibitions: in 2024, the Maison Nature & Patrimoines welcomes a new exhibition on popular beliefs. Linked to Catholicism or situated on its bangs, they are an integral part of everyday life. From pilgrimages and local saints to magic, superstition and witchcraft, discover the rituals that are rooted in the region. e. The museum's permanent exhibition "Sirens and Fossils" evokes the period when manatees and dugongs inhabited the sea that covered the region. Exceptional fossils, the only ones of their kind in the world, can be discovered on site at the Col des Lèques. On the first level of the building you'll find the Relais du Parc naturel régional du Verdon with information on the area and hiking, our free-access bookshop-boutique, and a temporary exhibition area. More information on our website!

The church was built on the plot of land belonging to the abbey of Saint-Victor de Marseille. It was built between the 12th century and the 18th century, and it was listed as a historic monument in 1944. The Church of Saint-Victor is late Romanesque, situated at the articulation of Romanesque art and Gothic art. It consists of a nave and a semicircular apse dating from the 13th century on the South side. A bell tower was added in the 15th century (1455), the upper part having been added in the 19th century.

The bridge is located on an ancient road, Via Vintinia, that connected Vence to Digne. A ford or a bridge allowed to go across the Verdon. Historians refer to a bridge built over the river in 1052. In 1300, a new bridge was built, and was destroyed less than a century later by the Vicomte de Turenne who devastated the region. The bridge you can see today, one of the oldest bridges remaining in Provence (1407), was built by the community of Castellane in the beginning of the 15th century.

The Church of the Sacré Coeur dates from the mid-19th century. It was built between 1869 and 1873. It then became the parish church of Castellane. The construction of the new church took place under the leadership of Father Pougnet, a priest and an architect. This priest officiated in Western Africa for several years in the course of the 19th century. Thus, the Church of the Sacré Coeur presents the characteristic of being built like churches in Western Africa.

The Castellane family is among the most important of the oldest families of Provence. Many representatives of this family bear the first name of Boniface. The most famous of the members of this family, affectionately named Boni (1867-1932), was elected several times MP for the department whose name was Basses-Alpes at that time. His generosity was famous throughout the region. In Paris, where he lived most of his time, his lifestyle was sumptuous and the parties organised by this "dandy” were famed.

Castellane was placed under the protection of Notre-Dame in the Middle Ages. On the Rock, the first church was built at the same period as the fortress (around the 11th century) and included a defense tower of the castle as an apse. The first mention dates from 1301. The inhabitants of Castellane were constantly concerned: in the 16the century, during the religious wars when it was devastated; in the 18th century, they enlarged it and, in the 19th century, they crowned the great white statue facing the town.

Pub, bar, brasserie in the center of Digne les Bains. "L’Étoile is a beautiful brasserie with terraces that stretch out at the beginning of Boulevard Gassendi, facing the Étoile roundabout and its parking lots. For nearly fifteen years, it has been a popular spot for those who enjoy basking in the sun or sitting in the heated area for the more chilly ones. The menu offers a wide variety of options to suit all tastes: delicious composed salads, charcuterie boards, well thought out daily specials and generous portions of meat. When it comes to dessert, the café gourmand is easily devoured. One of the chef’s specialties is the homemade hamburger with artisanal bread. The presentation of the dishes is pleasing, and the service is quick, making it a great choice for those in a hurry. In the evenings, this brasserie-bistro transforms into a tapas bar, offering a tapas menu with a wide selection of wines, cocktails and beers. Hervé, the owner, is a fan of music and rugby, thus it is not uncommon to come across a live concert by a local band or a live broadcast of a sporting event. In summary, L’Étoile offers excellent value for money and is a pleasant stop in Digne-les-Bains on the Alpine road. To top it all, a large car park is located right in front and the Tourist Office is only a few metres away. Lunch service: 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm Dinner service: 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm"

Traditional restaurant located near the small village of Marcoux (route de Draix) Mountain specialties in winter Pierrade - raclette - Savoyard fondues - mountain burger

Restaurant in a traditional and quiet village offering Mediterranean cuisine with Corsican and Armenian influences. We cook mainly with fresh products and favor short food supply chains. We offer Corsican and Armenian specialties. We also cook traditional recipes.

Inventive cuisine with local and seasonal products with an organic tendency. The restaurant offers, not only, but mostly traditional cuisine, with seasonal, local, and if possible organic products. All dishes are homemade.

Gastronomic restaurant / Fish specialties Shaded terrace in summer. Seminars, weddings, anniversaries, possibility of takeaway meals. 50 places inside - 30 places on the terrace. Menu from 27€

5 minutes from Forcalquier. This authentic inn, housed in a late 18th-century farmhouse, offers traditional, quality cuisine in a green setting.

Located on the village square with a terrace in the sun or in the shade, this small restaurant offers tasty and generous cuisine. A traditional and local menu, daily specials, a nice selection of meats. Customers appreciate: “Good value for money / succulent pasta and meats / excellent and fast service / heated covered terrace”

Organic and natural wine cellar / dining cellar: Pierre, our village sommelier, offers almost 400 references of wines, beers and ciders - Sale of local produce - Dishes on the slate - Charcuterie / cheese plancha. To take away or enjoy on site.

The Lou'Bar wine/dining bar has expanded its walls to offer market cuisine with a southern accent. Refined dishes, an à l'ardoise menu and gourmet menus...

In this authentic village inn, the gourmet cuisine of the chef, a disciple of Escoffier, is based on local and seasonal produce. An address for gourmets to savour. Dishes and desserts changed daily.

Opening 15/05/2020 > 27/09/2020 At the entrance of the largest canyon in Europe, the Huttopia Gorges du Verdon campsite welcomes you on a unique site on the banks of the Verdon with a beautiful swimming pool and private access to the beach…

Refuge of the C.A.F (French club promoting mountain sports) - this cottage is located on one of the most open viewpoints on the Verdon Gorges. This is a unique accommodation on the Route des Crêtes with a typical Provençal charm. An exceptional location on the Grand Canyon, starting from the famous Blanc-Martel and Imbut trails, a stage of the GR4, at the core of the Verdon Regional Nature Park, for your hiking, climbing, mountain biking and white water trips. Jean Faure, the new guard will welcome you as of March 26, 2016

Looking for a change of scenery? Try a complete change of scenery just 1h30 from Nice. The Roncharel gîte welcomes you to the heart of nature in the Verdon and Vaïre valleys, to discover another South. Panoramic views, absolute peace and quiet! Single rooms and group accommodation. Provencal cuisine based on local produce.

Municipal service area / camping cars Near parking lot and swimming pool Open all year round

Nice room in a green garden

Charming hotel in a former oil mill nestled in a large wooded park 10 minutes from the village.

Municipal service area for camping cars 2 pitches, quiet, close to shops Bottom of the village Near tennis courts and swimming pool

Family hotel with outdoor pool and large terrace, at the foot of the village. This establishment has been awarded the "Accueil vélo" label and welcomes cycling tourists. The rooms (16 m²) with private bathrooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi access, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and air conditioning. A buffet breakfast is served on the poolside terrace or in the dining room. Private parking is also available. The bar at Hôtel Les Oliviers welcomes you for a relaxing moment by the pool. This establishment is certified Accueil Vélo, offering a warm welcome to cycling tourists. Hôtel Les Oliviers has been awarded Gold in the Éco-Défis program. This initiative supports participants in reducing their environmental impact. It helps to highlight partner businesses, strengthen team cohesion, control costs, and become active players in the ecological transition.

Spacious and quiet room overlooking a provençal garden. swimming pool with natural maintenance and an eco-bel. spacious and quiet room overlooking a provencal garden. swimming pool with natural maintenance and environmental practices rewarded rewarded by an eco-bel.

A quiet family campsite in the heart of the Provençal countryside between Digne les Bains and the Verdon. In the heart of Provence, a region renowned for its sunshine, blue skies and Alpine air, La Célestine campsite offers a variety of accommodation options on a flat 3-hectare area, located only 16 km from Digne les Bains. Bordered by the river Asse and close to the Gorges du Verdon and its lakes (Sainte Croix, Castillon, Esparron) the campsite offers many activities on site and in surrounding areas. Enjoy a 750 m² lake directly on the campsite.