Attractions and Places To See around Thorame-Haute - Top 20

The region is rich in natural beauty, characterized by the upper valley of the Verdon River and its tributary streams. You can explore high mountain cirques and extensive forests, with notable peaks like Chamatte (2,081 m) and Grand Coyer (2,693 m). Other natural highlights include the Fontgaillarde Spring with its cave, and the impressive Gorges of Saint-Pierre.

Yes, Thorame-Haute boasts a rich history. You can visit the Fortifications of Colmars, a well-preserved defensive system dating back to the 14th century, later reinforced by Vauban. Other historical sites include the Parish Church of Saint George, the 13th-century Church of Peyresq, and the Moulin Bridge, a 17th-century arch bridge over the Verdon, classified as a historic monument.

The area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous opportunities for hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. For hiking, explore routes like the 'Tour du Couradour – Pré de Thorame loop from Peyresq' or the 'Scenic Landscape – Mountain Pond loop from Thorame-Haute'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Col des Champs – Champs Pass loop from Thorame-Haute'. For more details on routes, visit the Hiking around Thorame-Haute or Cycling around Thorame-Haute guides.

Absolutely. The Fort de Savoie, part of the Colmars fortifications, is a family-friendly historical site. The artificial Lac des Sagnes is also an ideal spot for family picnics and fishing, and features a nautical center. Additionally, the region's easy hiking trails and the pump track for cycling enthusiasts offer activities suitable for families.

The Champs Pass is a popular viewpoint offering extensive views and a smooth road surface. Another excellent spot is Col du Défens (1,230 m), known for its scenic road and beautiful landscapes. The surrounding high mountain cirques also provide numerous panoramic vistas.

Yes, the region is home to unique land art. You can discover the Sentinel of the Asse – Andy Goldsworthy, an ovoid stone cairn created by the renowned artist Andy Goldsworthy. This work is part of the “Refuge d’art” route, an artistic itinerary combining contemporary art, hiking, and rural heritage across the National Geological Nature Reserve of Haute-Provence.

The region is excellent for outdoor activities from spring through autumn. The summer months offer pleasant weather for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the lakes. For cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, the La Colle-Saint-Michel station is open in winter, providing 35 km of trails.

Yes, the Lac des Sagnes is an artificial lake perfect for recreation. It's a great spot for family picnics, fishing, and also features a nautical center. The Upper Verdon River and its tributaries also offer picturesque scenery.

Peyresq is a notable village known for its remarkable natural setting and beautifully restored mountain architecture. It holds historical significance with evidence of human occupation dating back to the Neolithic period, Iron Age, Antiquity, and Middle Ages. Its 13th-century church is also classified as a historic monument.

The area boasts rich fauna and flora, including diverse wildlife. You might spot alpine animals such as chamois in the high mountain areas. The region is also known for fossil discoveries on several mountain summits, particularly around Cheïnet and Peyresq.

Visitors often praise the stunning views and tranquility of the mountain passes like Champs Pass and Col du Défens (1,230 m), noting the minimal traffic and good road quality. The historical sites, such as the Fortifications of Colmars, are appreciated for their well-preserved state and the charming, well-kept towns. The unique land art installations also provide an unexpected cultural dimension to the natural landscapes.

Yes, Thorame-Haute has a train station, which is the only railway station in the Upper Verdon. It is part of the scenic line connecting Digne-les-Bains to Nice, famously known as the 'Train des Pignes'. This route includes a long tunnel linking the Verdon and Vaïre valleys.