Aix en Provence to Barcelonnette Road Trip

Take a road trip from Aix en Provence to Barcelonnette and explore the picturesque landscapes of Provence! This 223km long journey will take you through Moustiers Sainte Marie, Castellane, and Allos. The best time to take this trip is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful. The roads are generally in good condition, although some parts can be quite narrow and winding. Do be aware of possible seasonal road closures due to weather conditions. This road trip offers a great experience for everyone, and it can be done on a moderate budget. Make sure to take your time and enjoy the sights and sounds of Provence on your way to Barcelonnette!

Aix en Provence is an idyllic city in the south of France, located in the Provence region. It is the perfect starting point for the road trip “Aix en Provence to Barcelonnette”. Visitors will be enthralled by the city’s historic charm, with its medieval churches, cobblestone streets, and art galleries. The city is also renowned for its vibrant markets, where visitors can purchase local produce, handmade crafts and souvenirs. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Marseille Provence Airport (IATA code MRS). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to start your road trip. Once you’ve settled in the city, there are plenty of sights to explore. The Cours Mirabeau, the main shopping street, is full of life and is lined with beautiful 17th century mansions. The hilltop fort of Saint-Jean-le-Vieux offers stunning views of the city. Make sure to explore the picturesque old town, with its narrow streets and traditional architecture. Other highlights include the Cathedral of the Holy Saviour, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Granet Museum. Aix en Provence is the perfect starting point for a road trip from Provence to Barcelonnette. Whether you’re exploring the city’s sights or enjoying the local markets, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.

Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip? Start your journey in Aix en Provence, France, and take a scenic drive through Saint Martin de Bromes and Allemagne en Provence to Moustiers Sainte Marie. This 87 km drive will take you fewer than 2 hours, and you'll be able to admire the picturesque landscapes and historical sites along the way. Be aware that some of the roads will be narrow, so keep your eyes open and drive carefully. Make sure to take some time to explore the charming villages of Saint Martin de Bromes and Allemagne en Provence, where you can find interesting attractions and delicious restaurants. Moustiers Sainte Marie is the perfect destination to end your journey, with its stunning views and unique atmosphere. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Start your road trip in Moustiers Sainte Marie, a charming village in the south of France, and drive through the spectacular Canyon du Verdon to Castellane. This 44km route will take you less than an hour. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the canyon as you drive along the winding road, and don't forget to admire the stunning views of the Verdon Gorge. Once you arrive in Castellane, you can explore the old town, which is full of narrow cobblestone streets and ancient buildings, or take a walk along the banks of the Verdon River. Make sure to take some time to visit the Notre Dame du Roc, a 12th century chapel perched high on a cliff overlooking the river. Along the way, you'll find plenty of places to stop and take in the views, such as the Lac de Sainte Croix, a beautiful lake surrounded by steep cliffs and lush vegetation. You can also take a quick detour to the Pont du Galetas, a historic bridge that spans the Verdon River. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, buckle up and enjoy the ride!

Embark on a road trip from Castellane to Allos and explore the charming towns and stunning landscapes of Provence. This 57 km stretch will take you less than an hour to complete and will take you through the towns of Colmars les Alpes and Allos. As you drive, take in the incredible views of the Alps and look out for the historical sites that line the route. Be sure to keep an eye out for the steep ramps and be aware that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally. As you pass through Colmars les Alpes, take a moment to admire the beautiful architecture and quaint streets. When you reach Allos, be sure to take in the stunning views of the Allos lake. Along the way, you can stop at various viewpoints to take in the breathtaking scenery. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Start your journey in Allos, France and explore the 35 km road trip to Barcelonnette. The drive will take less than an hour, but you'll want to take your time to appreciate the scenery. As you make your way through Col d'Allos, you'll be surrounded by stunning mountain views and lush greenery. Along the way, you'll be able to take in historical sites, enjoy the winding roads and take in the narrow sections. Be sure to keep an eye out for steep ramps, as some sections of the route may be closed seasonally. When you reach Barcelonnette, you'll be able to explore the area and find out more about the local culture. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Barcelonnette is a charming town located in the southeastern part of France, at the end of the road trip from Aix en Provence. Situated along the Ubaye Valley, it is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The town is surrounded by the Alps, providing spectacular views and a great variety of outdoor activities. Nature lovers can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and much more. Barcelonnette also has plenty of cultural attractions. The town is home to the Church of Saint-Pierre-aux-Liens, a 12th-century chapel that features remarkable frescoes and sculptures. In addition, the Maison des Têtes is a museum showcasing the history and culture of the area. When it comes to dining, Barcelonnette has a wide selection of restaurants and cafes, serving traditional French cuisine as well as international dishes. For those traveling by car, Barcelonnette is the perfect ending point to the Aix en Provence to Barcelonnette Road Trip. The closest international airport is located in Turin, Italy (TRN). Barcelonnette is a picturesque town with plenty of attractions for travelers of all types. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or a peaceful atmosphere, Barcelonnette is the perfect destination.

Before you set off

Embark on a memorable Road Trip from Aix en Provence to Barcelonnette, spanning approximately 223 kilometers through the enchanting landscapes of the Provence region. This route is dotted with historic towns and breathtaking natural wonders, making it a quintessential adventure for anyone looking to explore the south of France.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Moustiers Sainte Marie: A jewel of the Provence region, Moustiers Sainte Marie is renowned for its fine faience, or earthenware pottery, a tradition dating back to the 17th century. Nestled near the entrance of the Verdon Gorge, France's answer to the Grand Canyon, it offers dramatic vistas and is a gateway to outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing.
• Castellane: This picturesque town serves as another access point to the Verdon Gorge. Castellane is watched over by the emblematic limestone cliff, the Roc, atop which sits the historical Chapel of Notre-Dame du Roc—a site that offers panoramic views of the region.
• Allos: Situated in the heart of the Mercantour National Park, Allos is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. The area is home to the pristine Allos Lake, one of Europe's highest natural lakes, and offers a range of outdoor activities from hiking to skiing in the nearby Val d'Allos ski resort.

Best Time to Go:

The best times to embark on this Road Trip are during the spring and autumn months. In spring, you'll be greeted by a landscape coming to life with wildflowers and verdant hills, while autumn presents a mosaic of warm colors and cooler, comfortable temperatures.

Potential Risks:

• The mountainous terrain requires navigating narrow and winding Roads, which demands attentive driving and caution.
• Seasonal Road closures are common, particularly in winter when snow and ice can make some routes impassable.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• This region is part of the UNESCO Geoparks network, thanks to its unique geological heritage.
• Along the route, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in the flavors of Provence, including local olive oils, truffles, and wines that are celebrated worldwide.
• The area's rich history includes influences from the Romans and the Knights Templar, with many sites like the Thoronet Abbey offering a glimpse into the past.

A good choice for:

This Road Trip is not just a journey from Aix en Provence to Barcelonnette; it's an exploration into the cultural and natural splendor of the heart of Provence. With careful planning, respect for safety, and a spirit of adventure, you're sure to create lasting memories on this spectacular French Road Trip.