Haute-Provence Luberon

 From the Alpes de Haute-Provence to the Vaucluse, the Luberon stretches like a sleepy cat. At its foot, the land of Cockaigne, a deeply Provencal place where a true way of life developed. Its northern border is the Clue de Sisteron, whereas Digne-les-Bains and the first Alpine valleys are found in the east. The Via Domitia, antic Roman road crosses it through. And all around the Via, hillside villages and farms appeared. For here, each stone taken from the ground testifies the love of men for their land : sheepfolds, stone walls, chapels…

Crops draw a magnificent patchwork : wheat, lavender, rape. Vine and olive-trees are grown, and goats and sheeps found. But this land is also the writers land : Jean Giono, Paul Arène, Maria Borrely, Pierre Magnan, René Frégni. They all celebrate the mysteries and dramas of their lands of lavender and cicadas in their books. But scientists and philosophers are also found in this region,. Like Gassendi and Esclangon, they know everything about stars, stranges rocks and hidden abbeys. Walk in their steps to discover the Citadelle of Sisteron, the medieval streets of Manosque or the splendid gardens of the Priory of Salagon.

To do that, you will have to walk on the dirt tracks of the country. No matter the season, hikers will feel at home, whether for a few hours with the family or for longer walks. Horse-riding and mountain-biking are also possibilities all year-round. For the lovers of gliding sports, the 3 aerodromes of the Val de Durance and their extraordinary flying conditions will be the place to be. Indeed, the 1997 World Championship took place in the Alpes de Haute-Provence.