In the shade of the Barre des Dourbes

Allow 30 minutes by car from Digne. Head to the hamlet of Les Dourbes, 8 km east of Digne-les-Bains via the D19.
Then continue along the road to the car park at the Maison Forestière du Serre, 1.5 km east of the hamlet.

(S/E) From the car park, follow the forest track south-east to a crossroads.

(1) Turn left to join the Grande Traversée des Préalpes (GTPA) route. A little further up, take the hairpin bend to the right onto a small path which leads up to a track. Follow it to the right and you will reach the path leading to the Pas de Tartonne.

(2) Continue straight ahead along the forest track, which climbs almost straight up alongside the Barre des Dourbes.

(3) Leave the track and head down to the left onto the grassy path. Numerous small channels.

(4) Go and admire the Pierre Saint-Martin, a large rock associated with the Trou de Saint-Martin, situated on the Barre near the Pas de Tartonne. After the trees, you’ll reach woods, then meadows and tree-lined paths. Head down towards the south-west to return to the car park (S/E).

It’s more of a stroll than a hike, and the whole family can do it. No special equipment required.

The meadows beyond point (4) are ideal for picnics; the grass is plentiful and the trees provide welcome shade.

Beware of horseflies, which are a nuisance from around May to August: long trousers and long sleeves are recommended for those with allergies.

In spring, the vegetation is enchanting, with an abundance of primroses and crocuses in every colour.

The buds seem to burst open, so eager are they to reveal the leaves they contain.

The stumps are impressive; they come in all shapes and sizes, and you have to navigate around them in every direction.

And of course… the magnificent Barre des Dourbes itself, which is always in view and seems to be saying to us: ‘Come on up! I’m waiting for you!!!’ But that’s a whole other matter…