The Alpes-de-Haute-Provence are famous for their ski resorts, Alpine landscapes, and traditional villages. The Ecrins National Park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
The Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, located in the southeast of France, offer a variety of tourist, culinary, and cultural activities. Here is a list categorized by type:
Tourist Activities
1. Winter Sports
- Serre Chevalier: One of the largest ski resorts in Europe.
- Les Orres: A family-friendly ski resort with numerous activities.
- Montgenèvre: An international ski resort bordering Italy.
2. Hiking and Nature
- Écrins National Park: Ideal for hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife observation.
- Lake Serre-Ponçon: The largest artificial lake in Europe, offering water sports and hiking.
- Clarée Valley: Renowned for its preserved landscapes and hiking trails.
3. Cycling and Mountain Biking
- Col du Galibier: One of the legendary cols of the Tour de France.
- Col d'Izoard: Another famous climb for cyclists.
- Ski Resort Bike Trails: Numerous marked bike trails in ski resorts.
Culinary Activities
1. Local Products
- Cheeses: Bleu du Queyras, Goat Cheese from the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence.
- Honey: Alpes-de-Haute-Provence honey, renowned for its quality.
- Fruits: Apples, pears, apricots, particularly in the region of Gap.
2. Culinary Specialties
- Tourtons: Fried doughnuts filled with potato, meat, or fruit.
- Ravioles du Champsaur: Pasta stuffed with meat or cheese.
- Donkey Ears: A dish based on tussilago leaves.
3. Markets and Fairs
- Gap Market: Weekly market featuring local products.
- Saint-Luc Fair: Annual fair in Briançon.
Cultural Heritage
1. Historical Sites
- Briançon: Vauban-fortified town, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
- Château de Mont-Dauphin: Fort constructed by Vauban.
- Abbey of Boscodon: 12th-century Cistercian abbey.
2. Museums
- Departmental Museum of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence: Located in Gap, it presents the history and heritage of the region.
- Silvermine Museum of Argentière-la-Bessée: Museum dedicated to the mining history of the region.
- Ski and Clarée Valley Heritage Museum: Located in Névache, it traces the history of skiing and valley.
Unmissable Activities
1. Thermalism
- Monêtier-les-Bains Thermal Spa: Renowned for its warm waters.
- La Roche-Posay Wellness Center: Center for well-being and rejuvenation.
2. Events and Festivals
- Chaillol Classical Music Festival: Summer classical music festival.
- Transhumance Festival: Celebration of the summer migration of livestock.
- Air Festival: Hot air balloon festival in Gap.
3. Aerial Activities
- Paragliding: Many take-off sites, notably at Saint-Vincent-les-Forts.
- Hot Air Balloons: Flights over alpine landscapes.
The Alpes-de-Haute-Provence thus offers a wide range of activities for all tastes, whether you are nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, gourmets, or sports fans.