Alpes de Haute Provence Guest houses Ubaye valley
Luberon - Plateau d'Albion - Montagne de Lure - Manosque - Forcalquier - Gorges du Verdon - Sisteron - Digne-les-bains - Ubaye valley - Parc du Mercantour
Provencal Authenticity and Hospitality
Alpes de Haute Provence
Luberon - Plateau d'Albion - Montagne de Lure - Manosque - Forcalquier - Gorges du Verdon - Sisteron - Digne-les-bains - Ubaye valley - Parc du Mercantour
The Ubaye Valley is located at the edge of the Provencal Alps. It can be reached by following the Durance towards its source, to the vast artificial lake of Serre-Ponçon, which the Ubaye, a torrential river, feeds with its clear waters. Higher up in the valley, at an altitude of 1200 meters, is Barcelonnette. This small sub-prefecture of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is the administrative and commercial center of the valley.
The climate of the valley is primarily mountainous but benefits from a Mediterranean influence. This results in more generous sunshine than in the northern valleys. Historically, the Ubaye Valley marks the eastern and northern limits of Provence. Its peaks, resembling sentinels, delineate the boundaries towards Dauphiné to the north and Italy to the east.
Far from being isolated, the Ubaye Valley has always been a route of communication and trade to the Italian Piedmont. In the 19th century, some enterprising inhabitants made fortunes in Mexico and, upon returning to their homeland, built sumptuous villas as a testament to their success.
The valley's peaks, ranging from 2000 to 3000 meters, are ideal for hiking. Visitors can admire high-altitude lakes while observing curious and fearless marmots. The passes of Allos, Vars, and the famous Bonnette summit at over 2800 meters offer impressive challenges, reserved for well-trained cyclists.
Since 2017, the Ubaye Valley has been part of the Mercantour Park. It constitutes its northern border, enriching its natural heritage with exceptional protection.