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Alpes de Haute Provence
The Alpes-de-Haute-Provence area in the south of France has the best of the mountains and the seaside coasts to offer the traveller.
With over 500,000 hectares of protected natural areas, the region boasts of a superb wildlife reserve that inform and define local pride. Bounded by Italy in the noth, the area has mountainous peaks jutting over 8,000 feet, which bring an abundance of rivers such as the Durance, Verdon, Bléone, Ubaye, Var, Buëch, Jabron, and Largue.
Locals in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence are known as Bas-Alpins, proud of the region’s closeness to some of the best natural beauty on the continent. Most local activity is centered around the larger towns of Manosque and Digne-les-Bains, with more scenic views in isolation in the mountainous regions such as Barcelonette and Castellane (the smallest subprefecture in the country).
The eleven villages in the region are proudly classified as having special architectural character unique to the region that brings to mind a medieval fairytale come to life. For example, visitors are enjoined to sample the town of Sisteron with its ancient citadel and narrow cobblestone streets that bring back the medieval glory days.
Nature and outdoor sports lovers are invited to drop by the Gorge of Verdon (Europe's Grand Canyon) where one can ride horses or cruise down the rivers on rafts. In summer, locals and travellers alike find a host of aerial sports to choose from, that maximize the surrounding mountains such as gliding, hang gliding and paragliding. While in winter, eleven ski resorts offer winter sports adventures over the holidays. For a slower pace to soothe the spirit, is the Dignes-les-Baines town with its natural baths and springs.
