Alpes de Haute Provence

Alpes de Haute Provence

Discover the Alpes de Haute-Provence: a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the Verdon gorges, visit the hilltop village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and taste the delights of lavender in Valensole.

Alpes-de-Haute-Provence 04

On the banks of the Ubaye. Alpes de Haute Provence

Discover the natural and cultural treasures of Alpes de Haute Provence.

The department of Alpes de Haute Provence, also known as 04, is a hidden gem in the south-east of France. Nestled in the heart of the Alps and Provence, this department of PACA region offers a unique blend of spectacular landscapes, picturesque villages and rich cultural history. we invite you to explore the natural and cultural treasures of department 04.

The Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur region has 6 departments:

  • Alpes-de-Haute-Provence (04)
  • Hautes-Alpes (05)
  • Alpes-Maritimes (06)
  • Bouches-du-Rhône (13)
  • Var (83)
  • Vaucluse (84)

Breathtaking landscapes

The Alpes-de-Haute-Provence are blessed by generous nature, offering breathtaking landscapes. Majestic mountain peaks, lush green valleys, deep gorges and sparkling lakes create an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts. The nature parkthe Verdon regional is a must, with its famous Verdon gorges, often nicknamed the “European Grand Canyon”. Hiking lovers can also explore the Massif du Mercantour and its varied trails.

Authentic villages

THE department 04 is home to charming hilltop villages, where time seems to have stood still. Among the most remarkable, we find Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, classified among the “Most beautiful villages in France”, known for its earthenware and its star suspended between two cliffs. Simiane-la-Rotonde, perched on a rocky outcrop, offers panoramic views of the Durance valley. Forcalquier, with its medieval citadel and bustling Provençal market, is also a recommended stop. Le Lauzet Ubaye the arrival of the legendary rafting course in France.

A region rich in history and heritage

Department 04 has a rich history dating back to Roman times. The town of Sisteron is a living testimony to this past, with its citadel perched on a rocky promontory. Digne-les-Bains is home to the Promenade Museum, which displays dinosaur fossils and archaeological remains. The village of Ganagobie is known for its 10th century Benedictine abbey, offering breathtaking views of the Durance valley.

Gastronomy and local products

The Alpes-de-Haute-Provence are also renowned for their authentic gastronomy. Local products such as olive oil, lavender honey, goat cheeses and aromatic herbs are must-haves in the region. Local restaurants offer tasty cuisine, showcasing these quality ingredients. Don't miss out on tasting the famous chard tart, a sweet and savory specialty typical of the region.

The Ubaye Valley

A natural jewel of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department 

Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, the Ubaye Valley is a true natural treasure that offers spectacular scenery, a rich history and a multitude of outdoor activities. Located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, this unspoiled valley is often nicknamed "Little Switzerland" due to its resemblance to Swiss Alpine landscapes.

There Ubaye Valley is crossed by the Ubaye river, which has its source in the Italian Alps before flowing into Lake Serre-Ponçon. This river, with turquoise and crystal clear waters, is a paradise for lovers of water sports such as rafting, kayaking andhydrospeed. The banks of the Ubaye also offer superb fishing spots, where fishermen can try their luck catching wild trout.

But the Ubaye is not limited to its watercourse. The valley is full of majestic mountains, vast forests, green meadows and magnificent mountain pastures. Hiking enthusiasts will find what they are looking for among the many marked trails that run through the region. Whether for a leisurely stroll along the high altitude lakes or a more intense hike to the Alpine peaks, there is something for all levels.

Barcelonnette

History buffs will not be left out in the Ubaye Valley. The region is home to several picturesque villages, including Barcelonnette, which enjoyed a prosperous period thanks to emigration to Mexico in the 19th century. The rich Mexican residences, with bright colors and unique architecture, bear witness to this flourishing era. The Valley Museum, located in the Château des Magnans, traces local history, from Roman times to Mexican migrations.

You know everything !! But we haven't told you everything!! Don't hesitate any longer and come to Ubaye in the Barcelonnette valley.

Caroline Aalbers
Caroline Aalbers
2023-07-29
Wat een geweldige ervaring, raften over de Ubaye! Prachtige natuur, mooie afwisselende tocht (inclusief zwemmen en in het water springen!) en geschikt voor elk niveau. Onze kinderen (6 en 9 jaar) hebben een super eerste raft ervaring gehad, mede dankzij onze leuke en goede gids. Ze willen zeker nog een keer :-)
Ziga Budja
Ziga Budja
2023-07-12
Wonderfull family rafting experience. Just a little bit too much for my sensitive eight year old, but great overall. The river is beautiful with nice surroundings. The guide was excellent (forgot his name 🙄) and the whole team was very nice. The trip down the river took about one and a half hour with some stops. If you visit this place, your're not gonna be sorry! 👍🏻
Fred
Fred
2023-05-13
Un lieu calme et agréable, accueillit par une équipe sympathique. Mise à disposition du barbecue pour le repas du midi avant le rafting. Tout est là pour votre bonheur.
Jerome Henry
Jerome Henry
2022-08-16
Merci @CrazyWaterRafting pour les moments géniaux en famille. Nous avons fait rafting, rando aquatique et kayak avec 2 adultes et 2 ados : génial !! Guides super sympa, très pro, Contrairement à ce que l'on entend a la télé, le niveau d'eau dans cette rivière et plus que suffisant pour s'éclater ! Nb: la rando aquatique n'est pas très connue mais super aussi, descente de la rivière en nageant, dans un secteur plus calme que celui pour le rafting. Explication sur la nature, superbe paysages, surprise à la fin... Encore merci. Jérôme, Caroline, Charlotte et Manon.
Shameer Habibi
Shameer Habibi
2021-07-29
Really fun, and a really good guide! Overall amazing
Melanie Macias
Melanie Macias
2020-06-06
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Lorenzo Van Loon
Lorenzo Van Loon
2019-08-02
We did two descents, one by raft and one by kayak, both with Julien as a guide. He seems totally crazy when you first meet him, but he was a great guide and made our day. Really spectacular river, with a lot of rapids and great views. We got out of the boats to swim a bit in one of the rapids and they took us to a rock where we could jump in to the water. Julien and the crew of Crazy Water are real professionals, but in for a laugh and a joke. A pity we could'n do the 'sport' descent, because of bad weather. But we sure come back. One remark; their 'bar' is quite empty, so make sure to bring your own drinks and food if you're planning to stay for a day.
verriez virginie
verriez virginie
2019-06-14
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