Discover Les Mees, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence: Hidden Gem

Discover a route rich in contrasts, mixing nature and spectacular landscapes. An alternation of climbs, descents and passages in the undergrowth. From grandiose panoramas to peaceful forests, this route will amaze you. The route is shared with route no. 24 up to the place called Les Apollinaires. Then take a small descent on the left which will go up further to the summit of Saint Antoine. You will then cross a field of solar panels and then start a magnificent path in the undergrowth, shared with route no. 11 of Malijai. The return is via the mountain bike link on the left bank which passes at the foot of the Pénitents rocks.

The route allows you to climb up a track to the oratory of Saint Antoine, where the plateau of La Colle begins. Passage near the solar panels. The route ends downhill on a very stony track that will get your arms moving!

This route allows you to easily reach the lake and go around it. It is a fishing lake that is part of the Ornithological Reserve of Haute-Provence where you can observe many species of birds. Ideal for a family walk. Take the street on the right towards Oraison, at the exit of the village cross the departmental road 4 to reach the district of La Chauchière. After crossing the industrial zone, you will reach the small fishing lake of Mées to go around it. This lake is part of the Ornithological Reserve of Haute-Provence where you can observe many species of birds all year round. The return takes the same route as at the start. Warning: in case of risk of flooding the use of this route is prohibited.

The connection of the left bank of the Durance is essentially on wide paths with very little difference in altitude, it is an easy route which follows the water along the river and passes at the foot of the rocks of Pénitents aux Mées.

The path of the Colle takes you to the "Haute Montagne" from where the view extends over the aromatic crops of the Puimichel plateau. This circuit is also an opportunity to discover old ruined farms. Departing from Place de la République in Le Mées, join the Route d'Oraison, which you leave after a few meters to join the EDF canal on your left. After having crossed it, the path enters a small ravine then "attacks" the hill quite sharply in the middle of the white oaks and the holm oaks, typical of the Mediterranean forest. Gradually, the slope softens and you reach the ruins of the Chamoyes farm, where, at the beginning of the 20th century, the school of the surrounding "campaigns" was held. A few hundred meters further, you reach the plateau of Puimichel whose extraordinary luminosity and the fragrance of aromatic plants are unforgettable. From there, the circuit branches off to the right (while the left path takes you to Les Pénitents or PR de Malijai.) After 1km leave the plateau to reach, on your left, the Apollinaire ruin before descending into the Aubrespins valley, the Provençal name given to the hawthorn tree. The end of the route is 2km, via a small tarmac road in the middle of olive trees, emblems of the region. Then you finally reach the canal and the village of Les Mées.

The Penitents' trail allows you and your family to discover this legendary site listed as a UNESCO Geopark in Haute-Provence. The route winds along the ridge and offers remarkable views of the rocks and the Durance valley. From Place de la République, go past the large hiking information panel and follow the urban markers of the Pénitents discovery trail. Go up Rue Clovis Piscon then turn left at Porte Saint Cristol and go up Rue Saint-Roch to the Saint-Roch chapel. This trail is the preferred route to discover this particular rock that is the Poudingue. It was formed a few million years ago, by consolidation of rock debris torn from the Alpine chain during uplift. It is erosion that carved these cones and blades forming the cliff in a thick layer of hardened puddingstones from the Mio-Pliocene period. The path passes at the feet of the Pénitents, who legend has it were monks petrified by St Donat for not having been able to resist the temptation of too beautiful Moorish women. At the pass, take the path going down to the left towards the shady side of the Pénitents. By a series of wooden steps, descend under the oaks, pass in front of 3 viewpoints and join the track at the foot of the hill. Option: from the pass possibility of making the loop of San Peyre: total duration: 3h30, mileage: 4 km, height difference: 420 m. Turn left and return by the main track towards the village of Mees. Pass in front of the "Tunnel de la mine" and via the rue du Rocher rejoin the departure route.

This trail allows you to discover the olive groves of Les Mées, the 1st olive-growing commune in the Alpes de Haute-Provence department. Departure from the ruined Saint-Pierre chapel built in the 16th century, in the direction of Oraison. This trail allows the discovery of Les Mées olive groves, the 1st olive-growing village in the Alpes de Haute-Provence area. Multi-centenary olive trees on both sides of the road.

The route follows the black circuit n°16 and then slides down to the Bas Col. A tarmacked section and then a path take you to the Bane plateau. The return is made through the heart of the village.

Family circuit, very accessible and without difficulty, mainly on paths. Passage near the jas de l'Agasse, the old Provençal name for the magpie, and then in front of the planted stone, an old Roman military boundary stone. Return by a wide track.

This route allows you to go from Peyruis to Château-Arnoux by a very beautiful path in the middle of nature. It is a very beautiful circuit with some technical difficulties, footbridges, bridges, long pipes, mainly on single-track trails, pure mountain biking!

Since 1922, our mill extracts extra virgin olive oil, a genuine fruit juice, only with mechanical means to olive oil amateurs’ great joy. For more than 40 years we have been making cosmetics and soap made in a cauldron just like Marseille soap. The harvest of olives is done manually with hand and automatic combs to preserve olives quality. Then, we proceed to the grinding of the fruit with a simple mechanical method, without the addition of chemicals or change in temperature. At the end of the grinding, we get an extra virgin olive oil with a free acidity lower than 0.8%. Our mill produces a local extra virgin olive oil. Our olive oil is peppery and refreshing which is specific to the aglandau olives (90%). Nearly 400 olive growers bring their olives to supply you with: - Green fruity olive oil - Local olive oil All our products are available at our shop and online shop: olive oil, homemade products, Marseille soaps… We also make basil, mint and lemon oils. Olive oil sold at the Serres, Orpierre, Sisteron and Laragne tourist offices. We offer visits of our soap factory from April to September by prior arrangement.

The hôtel du Lac offers you a warm and pleasant welcome. We are located near the lake where hikes and picnics are waiting for you. You can walk around the lake in 2h. We have 16 entirely renovated bedrooms with bathroom, WC, TV, Wifi and satellite channels in all bedrooms. A free car park is available and pets are allowed. Garage for cars (5€), free for bikes and motorbikes.

Fly up and away with this hot air balloon flight in Haute Provence! Marvel at the stunning scenery during this sky-high experience. FLY UP AND AWAY WITH THIS HOT AIR BALLOON FLIGHT IN HAUTE PROVENCE! MARVEL AT THE STUNNING SCENERY DURING THIS SKY-HIGH EXPERIENCE. As soon as you arrive, you will see the balloon get inflated, then slowly fly up from Forcalquier for an adventure in the purest sky in France. Led by the wind, you will see landscapes and hidden treasures that can only be seen from a hot air balloon. Hilltop villages and lavender and clary sage fields will offer you a typical natural view of this region, caught between the Alps and the Mediterranean. Your landing is sure to be pleasant and sociable, as you will share the traditional hot air balloon pilots' toast! This authentic encounter with Haute Provence will be a moment where time stops.

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.

Fabrice and Marie receive you in their campsite in the heart of Provence. Located 900 m away from the hilltop village of Thoard, the Moulin de Thoard campsite is a haven of peace surrounded by nature. Come enjoy the benefits of the Duyes valley. For one night or for longer stays, you will find peace and quiet in our magnificent human-size campsite located in the heart of Provence. In this fast-paced society, it is increasingly difficult to find real time for yourself. When taking over the Moulin de Thoard campsite, we wanted to put forward values that are precious to us, such as benevolence, solidarity and authenticity. It is through our exchanges that we wish to share moments of well-being with you. Here, you will find a calm and restful place in the middle of a natural setting. The valley of Thoard is set back from the main tourist routes, which allows it to keep its authenticity. We buy from local producers, breeders and shops, to offer you quality products in our campsite. This way, we favour short supply chain, limiting our environmental impact as much as possible. We are also very concerned about your well-being and the quality of our reception. Your arrival is for us a privileged moment to which we give all our attention. After a few administrative formalities and safety instructions, we will accompany you to your pitch or rental accommodation. We will show you all the facilities of the campsite so that you can fully enjoy it. Our campsite has: 3 huts, 1 chalet, 1 chalet on stilts, 1 perched caravan, 2 mobile homes, 1 tipi, 1 lodge tent, 1 Safari tent. The campsite is also open to motorhomes within the limits of the allocated space. A service area is provided by the village outside the campsite. You will find all the information you need to prepare your stay on our website. Do not hesitate to contact us for further information. Welcome !

The Salagon priory, a major medieval site in Haute-Provence, features a 12th-century Romanesque church with contemporary stained-glass windows designed by Aurélie Nemours, a Renaissance dwelling and ethnobotanical gardens.

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"

Gîte for 4 people located in the heart of the charming village of Marcoux. The main assets of the gîte are the panoramic view and the swimming pool. The layout of the gîte is full of surprises, with many objects diverted from their original function.

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.

25 km from Digne les Bains, in the heart of the UNESCO Haute-Provence Geopark, the Mandala campsite receives you in a preserved natural setting. Small campsite with 31 pitches, by the river, quiet and natural. Rental of 5 Mongolian Yurts, 4 Eco-Chalets and 21 quiet and shady pitches. Accessible to disabled people. Reception of groups and traineeships. Communal kitchen for the yurts, total of 2 barbecues for all. Yoga sessions in the Mandala Yurt and daily activities in July and August: guided hikes, night walks, donkey rides. Bikes rental for customers. Working donkeys for rent all year round. Swimming is possible. Car-free campsite, 2 car parks are available at the entrance and near the pitches. Trolleys are available at the reception point to transport your luggage. Ideal for nature lovers and outdoor activities enthusiasts such as hiking, Via Ferrata, MTB, climbing, canyoning or hang-gliding... or simply for people who want to relax in fresh air. The campsite is open with all necessary sanitary measures.

Les Pénitents des Mées is one of France's nationally classified sites and one of the Department's 34 priority sensitive natural areas. This high-quality natural area is fragile and must be protected.

The Ganagobie monastery, a listed historic monument, lies on the rock-capped plateau on the banks of the Durance between Peyruis and Lurs. It is a Clunsian priory founded around the 10th century.

The Escale dam was filled with water in 1960, and today it is full to 80% with Durance silt, which has resulted in it becoming overgrown with reed-beds and riparian vegetation, thus creating a marvellous environment for avifauna.

Perched on a balcony above the Durance valley, the village rises from a cascade of olive trees, one of the 5 most beautiful olive groves in Provence. Lurs stretches like a spur between the castle to the north and the seminary to the south. Perched in the balcony above the Durance valley, the village springs from a cascade of olive trees, one of the 5 most beautiful groves of Provence. Lurs spur stretches between the castle to the north and south of the seminar. Historians agree to assign to the founding of Charlemagne Lurs. In the early ninth century, the emperor placed the site under tual bishops of Sisteron, who built their summer residences. This rectangular building, the result of several massive construction campaign. On his left, sections of walls built of limestone and the base of a tower dating from the Middle Ages. From there, the walk of bishops lined driveway of 15 shrines, which leads to the Notre Dame de Vie. Other religious buildings subsitent Seminar today with the Priory and St Charles Boromée. The church, attested from the ninth century, has been repeatedly brought back into the day and extended to adapt to changing demographics. His monumental gate comes with a door and ornate bell tower welcomes 3 bells. The clock tower, topped with a wrought iron tower, which straddles the lane control access to the old village. Door lintels and corbels monolithic, mullioned windows are all elements of ancient architecture to discover. In the 1960s, an outdoor theater was built on the ruins to accommodate the cultural organization "Rencontres de Lure. The association, born from the meeting of professional printers (typographers, printers, type designers, etc ...) met annually since 1952 to Lurs and organizes seminars on various aspects of these trades. The "way of writing", which comes to the day, can address in a way that is both fun and educational changes in spelling. Become common, this amphitheater is home to several summer events. The built heritage home, saved from ruin in recent decades, indicating a restoration of good taste that has earned the village to be listed as a Historic Monument. A small road joins the board Ganagobie, spanning a Roman bridge, a remnant of the Domitian Way, which linked to Briançon Arles along the Durance. To the south, the chapel of Our Lady of the Angels stands on the ruins of Alaunium, Roman station along the same path, and adjoins the remains of an aqueduct. These structures remain visible witnesses of the impact of Romanization which has strongly influenced the highlands of Provence. For more information: Item Information Tel: 04 92 79 10 20 Fax: 04 92 75 26 76

Vorouno in provençal, the etymology comes from the celt « Vel Aon » that means to the water, the village setting up at the confluence of the Durance and the Grave torrent. Volonne is a little village of 1 700 inhabitants at the foot of a rocky spur overhung by two towers. Volonne is also called the "little Nice of the Alps" because of its sunny exposition facing the south-west. Volonne invites you to discover its streets which are fresh in summer and stamped with a rich historical past. In the main street, you can see houses with their medieval doors. In Vière street, you will discover old ramparts and an aqueduct from the 16th century. The two towers Volonne is dominated by two towers, the highest one is a watchtower from the 13th century and the lowest one is the 16th century communal clock . The numerous orchards spreading over the plain demonstrate how pleasant the climate is. The church Saint Martin Above the stadium, next to the cemetery, you can visit Saint-Martin's church which is a major building of the first Romanesque Art (11th century). It was originally part of a priory. It is with the chapel of Saint-Donat (Montfort) one of the most remarkable specimens of early Romanesque art (11th century). The fortified castle in the village centre, from the 17th century, has an exceptionnal staircase decorated with plasterstones, unique in Provence.

At 710 meters altitude, between lavender fields and garrigues, on the edge of fir and beech forests, on the southern slopes of the Montagne de Lure, discover the charming village of Cruis. At 700 meters in altitude between the lavender fields and scrubland on the outskirts of fir and beech forest on the southern slopes of the Montagne de Lure is the village of Cruis distinguished by its two flowers, awarded by the National Competition Towns and Villages in bloom. In Roman times, a branch of the Domitian Way crossed Cruis towards Mallefougasse. In the XIth century, the Abbey of Saint Martin prospered, and extended its influence for several centuries. It remains of this abbey, the church roof slate and rich furnishings, including many elements, the altar, the crib and figurines, and carved stone are ranked or listed in the Inventory of Historical Monuments. See also the remains of the former cloister, where he remains in crypts arch 6, backed by the church and a Roman column. Numerous hiking trails crisscross the forest and you'll enjoy discovering the fauna and flora of the merveilleurse Mountain Lure. It is possible to halt in jas which formerly were used by shepherds. Since 1997 these have been fully restored jas by elected officials and volunteers from the village. You'll love to discover a thousand and one things: a chapel, a laundry, a beautifully restored fountain ... and many other hidden treasures. Numerous cultural events, performances and exhibitions held throughout the year within the village.

Camin de Sant Jaume e de Roma

L'eglise est la seule partie conservée du monastère chalaisien établi vers 1160 au fond d'une vallée sauvage, à 1200 m d'altitude. Devant l'abbaye, une source permanente et une magnifique terrasse ombragée de noyers et de tilleuls plusieurs fois centenaires, au coeur d'une hêtrerie.

These rocks, formed like heads, mushrooms, arches or bridges, have often inspired local writers by their strange appearance. Eugène Plauchud wrote, in Provençal, that they were men of stone. For Camille Arnaud, writing in French, they were the campsite of the Emir of the Moors. More recently, Georges Lautner shot there one of his films based on Pierre Magnan's novel, "La Maison assassinée"».

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.

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.

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

Located next to the thermal baths, enjoy an exceptional setting with panoramic views of Montbrun and Mont Ventoux. A delicat kitchen and a wine cellar with more than 250 references. Enjoy a panoramic view over the village of Montbrun-les-Bains and the Giant of Provence. In a park of 4 hectares and an exceptional setting, L'O des Sources, listed in the Guide du Routard and Michelin Guide, is run by two professionals, including Ludovic Monier, a disciple of Escoffier. The restaurant has a panoramic view over the village of Montbrun les Bains and the Mont Ventoux. It is the ideal place to entertain your guests. Our restaurant has a capacity of 75 people. We will accompany you and discuss with you all the possibilities and your desires in order to satisfy you 200%. The restaurant also has a professional wine shop with more than 250 references. See the entire map and full menus of Restaurant O des Sources as well as the wine list on www.o-des-sources.com/

The snack is located 5 minutes’ walk from the village, near the campsite and the municipal swimming pool. It has three shaded terraces where you can enjoy the summer! Fast food: burgers, salads, grills…

In a stylish ambiance, french cuisine with past and present flavours. Lunch and dîner on the terrace in the summer months. Menu with salads during the season. The restaurant is open all year round, and menus are available for lunch and dinner, including weekends. If you'd like to organize a banquet, a party or celebrate an event, please don't hesitate to contact us. We can accommodate up to 80 people.

The hôtel du Lac offers you a warm and pleasant welcome. We are located near the lake where hikes and picnics are waiting for you. You can walk around the lake in 2h. We have 16 entirely renovated bedrooms with bathroom, WC, TV, Wifi and satellite channels in all bedrooms. A free car park is available and pets are allowed. Garage for cars (5€), free for bikes and motorbikes.

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.

Independent apartment on the ground floor of a villa, private garden, very quiet place, 300 m away from Ferréols lake.

3 star apartment of 55 m2 on the ground floor of the owners' house. Quiet area, open view, close to nature and the city. Very well exposed and bright. Two rooms (18 and 21 m2), very well equipped, new bedding of 160 cm, large terrace, small garden.

Fabrice and Marie receive you in their campsite in the heart of Provence. Located 900 m away from the hilltop village of Thoard, the Moulin de Thoard campsite is a haven of peace surrounded by nature. Come enjoy the benefits of the Duyes valley. For one night or for longer stays, you will find peace and quiet in our magnificent human-size campsite located in the heart of Provence. In this fast-paced society, it is increasingly difficult to find real time for yourself. When taking over the Moulin de Thoard campsite, we wanted to put forward values that are precious to us, such as benevolence, solidarity and authenticity. It is through our exchanges that we wish to share moments of well-being with you. Here, you will find a calm and restful place in the middle of a natural setting. The valley of Thoard is set back from the main tourist routes, which allows it to keep its authenticity. We buy from local producers, breeders and shops, to offer you quality products in our campsite. This way, we favour short supply chain, limiting our environmental impact as much as possible. We are also very concerned about your well-being and the quality of our reception. Your arrival is for us a privileged moment to which we give all our attention. After a few administrative formalities and safety instructions, we will accompany you to your pitch or rental accommodation. We will show you all the facilities of the campsite so that you can fully enjoy it. Our campsite has: 3 huts, 1 chalet, 1 chalet on stilts, 1 perched caravan, 2 mobile homes, 1 tipi, 1 lodge tent, 1 Safari tent. The campsite is also open to motorhomes within the limits of the allocated space. A service area is provided by the village outside the campsite. You will find all the information you need to prepare your stay on our website. Do not hesitate to contact us for further information. Welcome !

Gite away from the city centre On the second floor of the Château des Sièyes, this self catering gîte d'étape welcomes individuals and groups (on reservation and deposit payment starting from 7 people), halfway between the city centre and the commercial area of Digne les Bains. The gîte is part of the heritage of the city of Digne les Bains. The ""Provence Alpes Agglomération"" community manages it under its responsibility for tourism.

Eastern exposure, very sunny 1 room apartment. Garden level with terrace, panoramic view of the city and the mountains. In a quiet place.

2 room apartment in a house in the city center in a quiet and pleasant setting. Comfortable apartment for a pleasant and friendly stay with the locals.

This 2 room apartment is ideally located in the city center, close to the bus station and buses. Parking in the garden. Recently renovated. Quiet and comfortable apartment.