Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Paul-Sur-Ubaye - Top 20

The region is rich in natural beauty, nestled in the stunning Ubaye Valley. You can discover numerous alpine lakes such as the Lake of Nine Colors, the Marinet lakes, Lac Long, Lac du Roure, and the Green and Blue Lakes of Houerts. The area is also home to impressive mountain peaks, with 34 peaks over 3,000 meters, including the Brec du Chambeyron and Aiguilles du Chambeyron. Don't miss the unique natural rock formations known as the Colonne Coiffées at the Ravin de Pierres Vaches, or the geological site of the former Green Marble Quarry in Maurin. You can also visit the Source of the Maira, a river source located at 1645 meters, which serves as a starting point for various excursions.

Saint-Paul-Sur-Ubaye offers a rich blend of historical landmarks. You can visit the impressive Châtelet Bridge, a listed historic monument spanning 110 meters above the Ubaye River. Explore the massive stone citadel of Berwick Redoubt, or the formidable 19th-century Fort de Tournoux, both part of the region's defense history. The village itself boasts a 1714 fountain, an old wash-house, and traditional houses with wooden balconies. The hamlets of Serennes, Fouillouse, Saint Antoine, Maurin, and Maljasset are also noted for their traditional sundials.

Yes, the area features several charming and historic villages. A must-see is Saint-Véran Village, recognized as the highest municipality in Europe at 2,042 meters above sea level. It's a very pretty mountain village with traditional houses, fountains, and local craft shops. The hamlets of Serennes, Fouillouse, Saint Antoine, Maurin, and Maljasset also offer picturesque stops and glimpses into traditional mountain life. Fouillouse, at the foot of Chambeyron, is particularly noted as a starting point for hiking trails.

Saint-Paul-Sur-Ubaye is a 'Mecca for mountaineers and hikers,' with numerous trails including sections of the Via Alpina, GR 5, and GR 6. Popular routes include a loop between Saint-Paul-Sur-Ubaye and Fouillouse, and trails leading to various lakes and cols. Other activities include mountain biking, cycle touring, climbing, snowshoeing, and ice climbing in winter. For cycling enthusiasts, there are several routes available, such as the 'Colle dell'Agnello - Saint-Véran Loop' or the 'Col de Vars – View of Fort de Tournoux loop'. You can find more details on cycling routes in the Cycling around Saint-Paul-Sur-Ubaye guide or Road Cycling Routes around Saint-Paul-Sur-Ubaye guide.

The region is renowned for its stunning mountain passes and panoramic viewpoints. The Col de Vars, at an altitude of 2,108 meters, offers wonderful views and is a typical passage of the Tour de France. Another significant pass is Colle Greguri (Greguri Pass), the highest pass in the Provençal-Castello group, which rewards visitors with beautiful views in both directions after a demanding ascent. The numerous mountain peaks over 3,000 meters also provide breathtaking vistas for experienced mountaineers.

Absolutely. The Châtelet Bridge, built in 1882, is an impressive engineering feat. It spans 110 meters above the Ubaye River and is a listed historic monument. Visitors can admire it from a dedicated platform, appreciating its construction and the rushing torrent below. It's considered one of the highest bridges in Europe.

The region is home to several historic ecclesiastical sites. You can visit the 12th-century Romanesque Church of Saint Antoine de Maurin, which is a listed historic monument. Other notable sites include the Church of St Thomas in Tournoux, and the Chapel of Saint Antoine in Maljasset, known for its exuberant fresco on its facade. In the village itself, the Saint Pierre and Saint-Paul Church features a Romanesque spirit with Gothic elements from the 15th and 16th centuries, including a magnificent rose window and a tuf spire.

Yes, there are a couple of interesting museums in the area. The Albert Manuel Valley Museum (Musée Outils, gestes et travaux), housed in an old barn, showcases the tools, work, and traditions of the region. Additionally, motor enthusiasts might enjoy the Motorcycle Museum, which houses a collection of dozens of vehicles.

Yes, the region offers options for families. The Saint-Véran Village is considered family-friendly, offering a pleasant stroll through its streets to admire traditional houses, fountains, and local craft shops. The village's car park is at the entrance, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the easier hiking trails in the Ubaye Valley are also suitable for families, allowing for gentle exploration of the natural surroundings.

The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. For hiking, mountaineering, and cycling, late spring (May/June) through early autumn (September/October) offers pleasant weather and accessible trails. The summer months (July/August) are ideal for enjoying the alpine lakes and warmer temperatures. For winter sports like snowshoeing or ice climbing, the colder months from December to March are best. Keep in mind that mountain passes like Col de Vars are typically open from late spring to late autumn, but can close due to snow.

Absolutely. The Ubaye Valley is a popular destination for cyclists. The Col de Vars is a renowned passage of the Tour de France, offering a challenging and scenic climb. You can find various routes for road cycling, such as the 'Col de Larche – View of Pont du Châtelet loop' or the 'Ubaye River – Quiet alternative route loop'. For gravel biking, options like the 'Tunnel du Parpaillon' route are available. Explore more routes in the Cycling around Saint-Paul-Sur-Ubaye, Road Cycling Routes around Saint-Paul-Sur-Ubaye, and Gravel biking around Saint-Paul-Sur-Ubaye guides.

The village is home to local artisans who preserve traditional skills. You can discover a wooden toy maker and a potter-ceramist, offering unique handmade items that reflect the region's heritage and creativity. These local shops provide an opportunity to find authentic souvenirs and support local artists.