Here, there are no crowds or pretences, just the essentials: winding roads that climb towards the sky, sheer gorges carved by time, and villages where time seems to stand still. Digne-les-Bains, a sun-drenched prefecture, serves as the gateway to this wild territory where every bend holds a surprise. Ready to hit the road? Here are 5 must-see spots not to miss with your van or motorhome.
The Verdon Gorges
© Wikimedia Commons Ranked among Europe’s most beautiful canyons, these gorges offer jaw-dropping views, such as the Escalès belvedere. The Lac de Sainte-Croix below is perfect for a swim or a paddle.
Lac de Serre-Ponçon
© Wikimedia Commons This man-made lake, nestled among mountains, is an ideal spot for water sports or a lakeside stroll. Its turquoise waters and wild surroundings make it magical, especially at sunset.
Where to sleep nearby
Flat parking Puy-Saint-Eusèbe Parking
★ 4.8 Breathtaking lake view, 6 km drive. Free, max 2-3 spaces, flat ground. › Camping Le Clos du Lac Campsite
★ 4.5 Peaceful high-altitude setting, stunning lake view. Immaculate toilets, small shop on site (5 km). › Les Lionnets, Rousset Motorhome area
★ 4.4 Free lakeside spot, spectacular view. Motorhomes only 20:00-09:00 (7 km). › Camping les Sources Campsite
★ 4.5 Family-friendly and shaded, 5 min walk from the lake. Warm welcome, clean toilets (4 km). › Camping familial Le Nautic Campsite
★ 4.2 Direct beach access, pool and jacuzzi. Panoramic view, ultra-clean toilets (17 min walk). › The medieval town of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
© Wikimedia Commons Listed among France’s most beautiful villages, Moustiers combines cobbled streets, faience workshops and a waterfall overlooking the village. A must-visit for its charm and local craftsmanship.
Where to sleep nearby
La Ferme de Vauvenières Campsite
★ 4.8 Provençal farm 600 m away, large pitches in lavender fields. 7 min drive, rating 4.8. › Camping le Vieux Colombier Campsite
★ 4.7 Family-friendly shaded campsite, 12 min walk from the village. Rating 4.7, 124 reviews. › Motorhome parking Pont du Galetas Aiguines Parking
★ 4.3 Free parking by the lake, spectacular gorges view. 6 min drive, 61 reviews. › 4x4 parking with hill view Moustiers-Sainte-Marie Parking
★ 4.7 Isolated spot overlooking the valley, clear south-facing view. 15 min walk, total peace. › Camping Saint Jean Campsite
★ 4.6 3-star shaded campsite, 10 min walk from the centre. Rating 4.6, ideal for exploring. › The Haute-Provence Geological Reserve
© Wikimedia Commons This unique site is packed with fossils and lunar landscapes shaped by erosion. Perfect for a hike blending science and wonder, with trails suitable for all.
Where to sleep nearby
Camping des Eaux Chaudes Campsite
★ 4.1 3-star waterside campsite, shaded pitches. 5 min drive, rating 4.1, guaranteed quiet. › Parking for vans Entrages Parking
★ 3.7 Isolated mountain village, start of Cousson hike. 5 min drive, free, winding access. › Parking with nearby water Digne-les-Bains Parking
★ 4.5 River parking, max 1-3 spaces, natural setting. 25 min walk, free, rating 4.5. › Camping du Bourg Campsite
★ 4 Wooded campsite, pool, new toilets. 6 min drive, rating 4, near the centre. › Avenue des Thermes, Digne Motorhome area
★ 3.1 Free area for 50 spaces, facilities, mountain views. 45 min walk, variable, rating 3.1. › Digne-les-Bains’ Saint-Jérome Cathedral
© Wikimedia Commons At the heart of the town, this 12th-century cathedral blends Romanesque and Gothic styles, with a peaceful cloister. A historic spot, ideal for a cultural break before hitting the road again.
Where to sleep nearby
Camping des Eaux Chaudes Campsite
★ 4.1 3-star riverside campsite, shaded and flat pitches. 18 min walk from the centre, rating 4.1/5. › Quiet Forest Parking Digne-les-Bains Parking
★ 4.7 Isolated forest spot under pines, very quiet. 26 min walk, free and shaded. › Parking of the great fountain Digne-les-Bains Parking
★ 4.2 Large free parking near the town centre, flat and quiet. 9 min walk, bins available. › Rugby stadium parking Digne-les-Bains Parking
★ 3.8 Parking at Lac de Gaubert, natural and peaceful setting. 6 min drive, ideal for 1-2 nights. › Aire de Camping-Car Digne-les-Bains Motorhome area
★ 3.4 Free area by the Durance, pedestrian access to the centre. Service point (water), 19 min walk. › The Valensole Plateau
© Wikimedia Commons Famous for its endless lavender fields in summer, this plateau offers iconic Provençal landscapes. In a van, the small roads crossing it are perfect for photo stops and picnics in nature.
Where to sleep nearby
Camping les Lavandes, Valensole Campsite
★ 4.6 360° view of the Alps and lavender, heated pool. 7 min drive, rating 4.6/5. › Route de Puimoisson, Riez Motorhome area
★ 4 Spacious area 200 m from Riez, water and waste disposal. 5 min drive, €7/night. › Lavender field ruin parking Allemagne-en-Provence Parking
★ 3.9 Full nature, flat ground among lavender fields. 29 min walk, free. › Camping Rose de Provence Campsite
★ 4.3 Family-friendly shaded campsite, pool and nearby market. 5 min drive, rating 4.3/5. › Convenient town centre parking Valensole Parking
★ 2.7 Large grassy parking, close to Valensole centre. 8 min drive, free. › See all spots on the map