Bed and breakfasts in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, between the Verdon, Lure and Valensole
Alpes-de-Haute-Provence: Provence of open landscapes and mountain light
A higher, wider Provence
The Alpes-de-Haute-Provence reveal a quieter side of Provence, where Mediterranean landscapes gradually rise towards the Pre-Alps. Lavender fields, plateaus, valleys, stone villages and high roads give the department a generous sense of space, away from the busiest parts of Provence.
Forcalquier, Lure and Haute Provence villages
Around Forcalquier, Manosque and Sisteron, Haute Provence unfolds through hills, markets, cultivated fields and villages deeply rooted in their terroir. The Mountain of Lure, the Valensole plateau, lavender around Sault and the Albion plateau, Banon, Simiane-la-Rotonde, Cruis, Mane and Dauphin give this part of the department a restrained, rural and unmistakably Provençal character.
The Verdon, lakes and water villages
Further south-east, the Verdon changes the scale: turquoise water, limestone cliffs, scenic roads and the lakes of Sainte-Croix, Esparron and Castillon. From Castellane to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, through Riez and the plateau villages, the stay becomes more mineral, shaped by walking, water and wide horizons.
At the gateway to the Alps
Towards the Ubaye, Allos, Colmars-les-Alpes and Barcelonnette, the department clearly enters Alpine country. The Mercantour National Park brings wilder landscapes, high valleys and hiking routes that naturally extend a stay begun in Provence.
Bed and breakfasts in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
Here is a selection of guest houses, gites and charming places to stay in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, between the Verdon, Lure and Valensole, with direct access to each owner’s website.
- Garden
- Table d’hôtes (guest meals)
- Swimming pool
Charming bed and breakfast
La Fabrique de Moustiers
In Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, five spacious rooms, including a family suite, occupy a former pottery workshop restored with restraint. Comfortable interiors and a terrace above the stream invite leisurely pauses. A house rooted in the village’s craft traditions, for exploring the Verdon and enjoying seasonal cooking.
Charming holiday rental
Hameau de Pichovet
In Vachères, six holiday cottages and apartments sleeping two to eight bring new life to a stone hamlet, away from the roads amid the landscapes of Haute-Provence. Restored accommodation combines independence and comfort, with nature all around. A place for couples or families, walks from the doorstep and outings around Banon and Forcalquier.
Planning your stay in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
When should you stay in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence?
Summer is ideal for the Verdon lakes, Haute Provence villages, markets, lavender roads and evenings in small towns.
Spring and autumn are well suited to walking, visiting Forcalquier, Sisteron or Manosque, and enjoying the landscapes of Lure, the Verdon and Valensole at a quieter pace.
Where should you choose a bed and breakfast in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence?
Around Forcalquier and the Mountain of Lure, stays focus on villages, markets and Haute Provence landscapes. Around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Sainte-Croix and Castellane, the Verdon becomes the main focus.
Manosque and Sisteron are practical bases for exploring the Luberon, Valensole, the Durance valley and Alpine routes.
What can you do in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence during a Provence stay?
The department combines lavender, hilltop villages, Alpine valleys, lakes and wide mineral landscapes.
- Explore Forcalquier, Manosque, Sisteron and Digne-les-Bains
- Discover the Verdon, Lake Sainte-Croix and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
- Travel through the Mountain of Lure, Banon, Simiane-la-Rotonde and the Valensole plateau
- Plan walks around Ubaye, Allos or the Mercantour
- Enjoy markets, lavender roads and Haute Provence villages