Montagne de Chabre

Overlooking the touristy Buëch valley, the Montagne de Chabre stretches out in a long rocky ridge, which creates a natural barrier between the Céans valley to the north and the Méouge valley to the south. This remarkable natural site attracts lovers of nature and outdoor activities.

A listed natural area

The mountain of Chabre is a remarkable natural site of the Hautes-Alpes, protected by its classification as a natural zone of ecological, faunistic and floristic interest (ZNIEFF in French). The flora is essentially composed of mixed forests, clinging to the slopes and ravines of the mountain, as well as moors and semi-dry grasslands. This exceptional site is home to eleven key plant species, six of which are under special protection in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.

Birdwatchers can observe a rare fauna. The forests of the Chabre mountain are home to wood grouse and great horned owls, while the sky is the kingdom of the short-toed snake eagle, a small bird of prey specialised in hunting reptiles.

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Une publication partagée par Randonner Malin (@randonner_malin)

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Une publication partagée par Sisteron Buëch Tourisme (@sisteronbuech)

Between hiking and nature activities

Many hiking trails enable you to discover the mountain of Chabre. You can walk in the state forest, in a bucolic and soothing natural setting. You can also walk along the ridge line to the summit of the Espranons (1352 m). A unique panorama, described on a viewpoint indicator, offers you an unrestricted view of the region. You can see up to the distant peaks of the Écrins, the Mont Ventoux and the Lure mountain.

You can also cycle or mountain bike the trails of the Chabre mountain, or go horse riding with a guide.

The region has many famous climbing sites, such as Orpierre, and via ferrata routes. Thrill seekers can also admire the Montagne de Chabre, and many other peaks in the Alps and in Haute-Provence, from the air. Paragliding and microlight flights are available from Laragne-Montéglin. You can also admire the ballet of multicoloured sails in the sky.

The nearby Gorges de la Méouge offer a refreshing stopover in summer. Easily accessible, the numerous natural pools are an invitation to swim in the fresh, pure water.

Villages and heritage

The many villages nestled in the hollows of the valleys, clinging to the sides of the mountains or perched on their promontory, have kept all their authenticity and character.

To the north, Orpierre tans its medieval stones in the sun. In summer, climbers from all over the world come here to challenge the great limestone walls that dominate the village.

To the south, you can also visit the charming villages of Barret-sur-Méouge, Salérans and Ballons.

To the east, at the entrance to the Méouge gorges, the village of Châteauneuf-de-Chabre can also be a stopover at the start or the return of a hike or a mountain bike excursion.

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Une publication partagée par Thomas Lagache (@thomas.lagache)

Practical informations

You can easily access the Montagne de Chabre by road from Gap or Marseille. Take the A51 / E712 motorway and exit at Sisteron in the direction of the Gorges de la Méouge. A tarmac forest road enables you to enter this beautiful natural site.

We propose a selection of outdoor activities near Sisteron and the Chabre mountain to help you prepare your stay.

You can consult the Sisteron Buëch Tourist Office website for more information.