The Verger Walk in Barcelonnette

(S/E) In the centre of Barcelonnette, walk to Place du Président Paul Reynaud, where the post office is located (a well-known landmark here!). Opposite the post office, turn right, heading east, and follow Avenue de la Libération, which is lined with numerous Mexican-style villas.

(1) At the roundabout, carry on straight ahead along Avenue Antoine Signoret.

(2) About 250 metres past the roundabout, you’ll pass over a large water pipe – you can’t miss it. Turn left and head north for a few dozen metres along the Chemin de l’Ermitage du Verger. (Information board for the walk at (2)).

(3) Turn left into the woodland and cross a footbridge. Follow the path northwards (signposted ‘Le Verger’).

(4) The path branches off to the left, heading south-west and uphill. The descent takes you through further woodland, and there are occasionally designated viewing points where you can take in the views. When you reach a tarmac road, head down to the left. (signpost for “Barcelonnette – Historic Centre”)

(5) A path leads straight down towards the south. Take this path. It comes out onto a street that takes you back along the post office, to Place du Président Paul Reynaud (S/E).

There are no difficulties on this route.

No water available, but the local pubs in Barcelonnette are welcoming.

Barcelonnette’s historic town centre.

The museum in the Maison du Parc will shed particular light on the links between Barcelonnette and Latin America, particularly Mexico. You will learn more about the name “Maisons Mexicaines” and come to understand it as “Maisons des Mexicains”, referring to the people of Barcelonnette who made their fortunes in the textile trade in Mexico and returned home.