Geology and built heritage in the Alpes de Haute Provence

In the heart of the Alpes de Haute Provence, the Earth tells 300 million years of history. Here, the Geological Reserve and UNESCO Geopark offer a spectacular open-air book, where landforms, rocks, and landscapes reveal the planet's major transformations. From the Mourres de Forcalquier to the Pénitents des Mées, from the Grès d'Annot to the high valleys of the Mercantour, each stage unveils an exceptional mineral heritage.
This geological memory is complemented by a remarkable built heritage: citadels, fortified villages, and stone architecture shaped by centuries of human history. An immersive experience, blending Earth sciences and architectural legacy.

Programme

Day 1: Sisteron and Château-Arnoux: stone as a rampart

The stay begins at Sisteron, a strategic stronghold in the Alps, dominated by its citadelle iconic, watching over the Durance valley.
Lunch is planned at the bistronomic restaurant Once upon a timeChef Joan offers creative, seasonal, and homemade cuisine. He showcases local produce in a warm and refined atmosphere.

The afternoon is devoted to a guided tour of Sisteron and its citadelPerched on its rocky spur, it offers striking panoramas of the city, the river and the alpine reliefs, while retracing several centuries of military and urban history.

The road then leads to Château-Arnoux, for an unusual walk around the lake and the discovery of the Haute Provence Ornithological ReserveThis refuge is home to more than 140 species of birds, where nature and observation blend harmoniously.

The day ends at theHotel La Bonne Étape****An iconic address in Château-Arnoux. This Relais & Châteaux property impresses with the refinement of its rooms and the excellence of its Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant, orchestrated by chef Jany Gleize.

Day 2: Forcalquier, Les Mées and Digne-les-Bains: landscapes sculpted by time

Board Forcalquier, between Luberon and the Lure mountain. In the morning, a walk to discover the Mourres geological siteIt is an astonishing collection of limestone concretions with unique, sometimes anthropomorphic shapes, evidence of ancient seabeds and a fascinating geological past.

After the walk, a gourmet break at The Ampersand, wine cellar and restaurant offering a unique daily menu, designed around a subtle and generous food and wine pairing.

It's impossible to leave Forcalquier without a guided tour of the old town and the citadelFrom this iconic viewpoint, the view encompasses the city and the surrounding landscapes, from the Luberon to the first Alpine peaks.

The route continues towards the Penitents of Les Mées, spectacular rock formations rising to over 100 meters. The Penitents' Trail, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site Haute-Provence Geoparkallows you to explore this listed site, which is geological, legendary and scenic.

On the road to Digne-les-Bains, stop at the Digne Country Products House, a showcase of the region's know-how and authentic products.

The night unfolds at Digne-les-Bains visit us at the Refuge des Sources***This charming accommodation, nestled in nature and located near the thermal baths, offers a peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere.

Day 3: Colmars-les-Alpes and the Val d'Allos: fortified heritage and alpine geology

The day begins in Digne-les-Bains with a visit to the UNESCO Promenade Museum and Geopark of Haute-ProvenceThis vast landscaped park blends paths, streams, waterfalls and contemporary works of art, offering a sensitive and educational approach to the geology of the territory.

Then head to Colmars-les-AlpesA mountain village with remarkable architectural heritage, this fortified village in the Upper Verdon region, designated one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France in 2025, captivates visitors with its ramparts, forts, and military history. Guided tours include the ramparts, the Maison Musée du Chemin de Ronde (Roundabout Museum House), and the Fort de Savoie.

Lunch is served at Vauban RestaurantHoused in a 19th-century building, Lucy and Sébastien offer gourmet cuisine prepared with fresh produce.

The afternoon leads to Allos, a mountain village at the gateway to the Mercantour National Park. Christiane Ray Anezin, a mountain guide, leads a guided geological hike to discover the history of the Upper VerdonThis walk benefits from the Esprit Parc national – Mercantour brand, a guarantee of quality and environmental commitment.

The evening and night take place at theHotel La Source**, located in Val d'Allos – La Foux At an altitude of 1,800 meters. With its carefully designed mountain-style decor, it is an unmissable address and ideally located in the heart of the ski resort.

Dinner is offered at restaurant Le Pourquoi PasCheese specialties are showcased in a friendly atmosphere.

Day 4: Annot and the Train des Pignes: a mineral and railway journey

Last step to Annot, a medieval troglodyte village, nestled at the foot of the Annot sandstoneThis natural site is classified for its exceptional geological value. The village, suspended between sky and rock, offers a built heritage intimately linked to its mineral environment.

The morning is dedicated to a hike on the Sandstone Trail up to the King's Chamber. Geological curiosities, biodiversity, legends and traces of ancient occupations mark this emblematic route.

Lunch takes place at Le Pré restaurantA friendly place where you can enjoy simple and generous local cuisine.

The geology and heritage trip concludes with an emblematic experience: the possible return to Pignes Train all the way to Nice. This legendary line, steeped in 130 years of history, winds its way between viaducts, tunnels and spectacular landscapes. It reaches an altitude of nearly 1,000 meters, providing a gentle and panoramic conclusion to this journey into the heart of the stone.

Practical information for your stay