In the department of Alpes de Haute-Provence, the small town of Digne-les-Bains occupies a central role thanks to the many activities it offers. Cultural or sporting, demanding or family, the visits are varied, with however an emphasis on geology. Digne-les-Bains is located in the heart of the Geopark of Haute-Provence, which highlights the natural curiosities of the region. Whether you are more sport or museum, here are the activities not to be missed in Digne-les-Bains!
VISIT
8 ideas for places to visit this summer
ALPES DE HAUTE PROVENCEThe ammonite slab
Seeing the ammonite slab is one of the first things to do when visiting Digne-les-Bains. It is indeed one of the major points of geological interest in the region. The site in question is just 4 km from the center of the city and impresses with the number of ammonites that have been trapped in the rock: more than 1500 specimens have been listed, some of which reach 70 cm in diameter! 200 million years ago, Digne-les-Bains and a large part of the Alps were under the sea… The place, very easy to access, will not fail to amaze both children and adults.
The Digne-les-Bains via ferrata
The via ferrata of Digne-les-Bains is called the Via du Rocher de Neuf Heures. It is reached after an approach walk of an hour from the heart of town. Better to go there in the morning, because the via is then pleasantly in the shade. Easy, it is one of the activities to do with the family (children from 1,40 m and 40 kg). Equipment can be rented at the Digne-les-Bains tourist office. The viewpoints offered to climbers are then sensational over the city and the reliefs of Provence.
The clue of Barles
By taking the road for about twenty kilometres, you arrive at the Clue de Barles. It is a rocky narrowness through which the road winds following the winding waters of the Bès. Impressive natural site, it is an essential detour during holidays in the region of Digne-les-Bains! The clue (or door in local patois) was carved by water in a limestone bar. An exotic place for an amateur visit and a geological puzzle for stratigraphers, paleontologists and tectonicians!
The Alexandra David Neel House
A great explorer of Asia and in particular of Tibet, writer, artist… Alexandra David Neel is an important figure in Provence and France. Straddling the XNUMXth and XNUMXth centuries, Alexandra David Neel is unclassifiable. His house in Digne-les-Bains has been transformed into a museum. We admire her objects brought back from her travels, we discover her correspondence, her work and her place of life... The garden still has trees planted by the explorer. Reservation is mandatory before any visit to the house and garden.
The Gassendi museum
A visit to Digne-les-Bains would not be complete without a stop at the Gassendi museum. This cabinet of curiosities takes place in a former XNUMXth century hospice in the heart of the city and takes its name from Pierre Gassendi, a scholar of the first half of the XNUMXth century born near Digne-les-Bains where he was the provost of the Saint-Jérôme Cathedral in addition to his activities as an astronomer and philosophical reflection. Contemporary art mixes with curiosities and a digital application, Gassendi Curiosity, personalizes visits and makes them more lively than ever.
Saint Jerome Cathedral
One of the most beautiful Romanesque churches in Provence, Notre-Dame-du-Bourg cathedral was nevertheless abandoned, along with its entire district, in favor of the upper town of Digne-les-Bains, which represented a more strategic location facing the invasions. It was then decided to build a new church, which would become Saint-Jérôme Cathedral. Its current neo-Gothic style contrasts with the Romanesque sobriety of Notre-Dame-du-Bourg.
The lavender museum
Lavender is one of the most characteristic products of Provence and the surroundings of Digne-les-Bains. In this museum, the city showcases the know-how of lavender growers and the creations made from lavender. Visits can be combined with workshops, distillation demonstrations and other activities that will pleasantly punctuate a day of discovery in this sunny part of the Southern Alps.
The walking museum
In connection with the Geopark of Haute-Provence, the museum-promenade combines discovery trails and indoor visits. Art and nature meet during an atypical and lively visit. Paintings, waterfalls, fossils and works of art mark out a route accessible to all. As an option, the guided tour on the butterfly path completes the wonder of young and old alike. Between walking and observation, artistic and natural, it is an activity to do without hesitation with children!
Camping du Lac is located an hour's drive from Digne-les-Bains. It is an ideal destination for a day visit. On the way, do not hesitate to stop at the natural site of Les Mées. Back at the campsite, a swimming break in the water of our aquatic area will complete the day with a moment of playful relaxation!
