Sisteron and the Durée: 6 must-see spots to explore by van or motorhome

Between sheer cliffs and hilltop villages, Sisteron and the Durée offer breathtaking landscapes. Discover 6 magical places for a nature and culture getaway on a road trip.

Welcome to a land where Provence meets the Alps, under blue skies and against ochre rocks. Sisteron, the gateway to the Southern Alps, and the Durée valley are brimming with natural and historical treasures, perfect for an adventure by van or motorhome. Lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera and let these unmissable, accessible and spectacular stops guide you.

Citadelle de Sisteron

Perched on a rocky spur, this medieval fortress overlooks the town and the Durée valley. Its ramparts offer an unrivalled view of the region, and its fascinating history can be explored through its museums.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping à la ferme — Valernes Campsite ★ 5 Farm camping with a beekeeper, 6 km from Sisteron. 6 spacious pitches under pine trees, potable water point. › Chambres d'Hôtes Les Maïsses Motorhome area ★ 4.9 Private wooded area, 5 km from Sisteron. Large grassy pitches, all services included for €10 per night. › Camping les randonneurs Campsite ★ 5 Rustic, secluded campsite, 7 km from Sisteron. 20 shaded pitches, preserved natural setting. › Grassy parking Sisteron Parking ★ 4.2 Grassy mountain car park with spectacular views of the citadel. Access via D17, 31-minute walk. › Roadside parking Sisteron Parking ★ 4.7 Free roadside parking, 10 minutes’ walk from the centre. Linear spaces, quiet and practical. ›

Rocher de la Baume

This iconic limestone pinnacle, visible from Sisteron, is a legendary hiking spot. The ascent (1 hour 30 minutes round trip) rewards your efforts with a 360-degree panorama of the Alps and Provence.

Where to sleep nearby

Moine viewpoint parking Mouthier-Haute-Pierre Parking ★ 4.4 Stunning views over the Loue valley, direct access to trails. 16-minute walk, free and well-rated. › Camping Municipal Le Pré Bailly Campsite ★ 4.5 Idyllic setting by the Loue, shaded pitches. 6-minute drive, calm and well-maintained campsite. › Quiet riverside parking Vuillafans Parking ★ 4 Spacious car park near the river, swimming possible. 5-minute drive, flat and free terrain. › Camping municipal le Champaloux Campsite ★ 4.4 Pastoral atmosphere, flat pitches near the Loue. 38-minute walk, very quiet and well-rated campsite. › Parking at forest edge Hautepierre-le-Châtelet Parking ★ 4.2 Edge of forest, open meadow and absolute tranquillity. 25-minute walk, free and natural parking. ›

Gorges de la Méolans

Carved by the Bès river, these wild and narrow gorges are a paradise for nature lovers. The winding, spectacular road that cuts through them is a must for road-trippers.

Where to sleep nearby

Parking by the Ubaye Jausiers Parking ★ 4.5 Large shaded car park by the Ubaye, ideal for kayakers. 6-minute drive (6 km), rated 4.5. › Riverside parking La Condamine-Châtelard Parking ★ 4.5 Wild spot between pines and rocks, very quiet. 5-minute drive (4 km), rated 4.5. › Camping Gite d'Etape Champ-Feleze Campsite ★ 3.6 Family campsite by the river, mountain setting. 31-minute walk, rated 3.6. › Parking by a mountain stream Meyronnes Parking ★ 4.8 Wild spot by a stream, fresh water. 5-minute drive (4 km), rated 4.8. › Camping Municipal Bel-Iscle Campsite ★ 3.5 Municipal campsite in the forest, lake nearby. 48-minute walk, rated 3.5. ›

Village of Lardier-et-Valença

This charming hilltop village, just a few kilometres from Sisteron, wins hearts with its cobbled streets and authentic atmosphere. Its Romanesque church and stone houses are well worth a detour for a timeless break.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping le Chêne Tallard Campsite ★ 4.1 Shaded family campsite, new facilities. 6-minute drive (6 km). › D19, Sigoyer Motorhome area ★ 4.3 Free mountain aire, 3 quiet spaces. 5-minute drive (5 km). › Cerps parking Tallard Parking ★ 4.2 Shaded car park near an airfield, clean toilets. 5-minute drive (5 km). › Flat and quiet parking Curbans Parking ★ 4 Flat, isolated canal-side spot, peaceful atmosphere. 5-minute drive (4 km). › Camping du Lac Campsite ★ 2.9 4-star campsite with lake and water park, activities. 5-minute drive (4 km). ›

Lac de Serre-Ponçon

An hour’s drive from Sisteron, this alpine lake with turquoise waters is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding or a lakeside stroll. Its grand landscapes, framed by mountains, make it a place of relaxation and adventure.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Le Clos du Lac Campsite ★ 4.5 Stunning views of the lake and mountains, immaculate facilities. 5-minute drive (5 km). › Les Lionnets, Rousset Motorhome area ★ 4.4 Free from 8pm to 9am, spectacular lake views. 8-minute drive (7 km). › Rousset Parking ★ 5 Free flat car park by the lake, near the beach. 8-minute drive (7 km). › Lakeside view parking Le Sauze-du-Lac Parking ★ 4.7 280-degree lake views, absolute calm at night. 6-minute drive (5 km). › Camping les Sources Campsite ★ 4.5 Shaded family setting, 5 minutes’ walk from the lake. 5-minute drive (4 km). ›

La Roche-Percée

This spectacular natural site near Sisteron is a giant rock arch carved by erosion. Accessible on foot in 20 minutes from the car park, it impresses with its size and wild setting.

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