Ubaye Valley: Barcelonnette, Alpine passes and Mercantour

The Ubaye Valley at the edge of Provence

Geographical setting

The Ubaye Valley lies at the edge of the Provençal Alps. It is reached by following the Durance towards its source, up to Serre-Ponçon Lake, a vast reservoir fed by the clear, fast-flowing waters of the Ubaye River. Higher in the valley, at about 1,200 metres, Barcelonnette forms the administrative and commercial centre of this mountain territory.

Climate and history

The climate is mountainous, but Mediterranean influence brings more generous sunshine than in some Alpine valleys further north. Historically, the Ubaye Valley marks the eastern and northern limits of Provence. Its high peaks close the horizon towards Dauphiné to the north and Italy to the east.

Barcelonnette, Jausiers and the Mexican villas

Far from being isolated, the valley has long been a route for travel and trade towards Italian Piedmont. In the 19th century, several inhabitants made fortunes in Mexico and returned to build large villas in Barcelonnette and Jausiers. These houses now give the valley a distinctive architectural heritage.

Hiking, high-altitude lakes and great passes

Peaks often range between 2,000 and 3,000 metres, making the valley suitable for hiking, high-altitude lakes and marmot watching. The Allos and Vars passes, along with the Cime de la Bonnette above 2,800 metres, attract well-trained cyclists and travellers looking for the great Alpine roads.

Ubaye and Mercantour National Park

Since 2017, the Ubaye Valley has been part of Mercantour National Park. It forms a northern gateway to protected natural heritage, mountain villages, pastures, torrents and Alpine scenery.