Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
3. MONT PELAT
The highest peak in the Provençal Alps rises to a height of 3,050 m (10,020 ft)
and dominates a lofty landscape of bare rocky summits, streaked by snow until
early summer, pine forests and alpine meadows. The massif is crossed by breathtak-
ing passes, including the Cime de la Bonette, by which the D64 road traverses the
shoulder of Mont Pelat at a height of 2,860 m (9,400 ft), making it the highest pass
in Europe.
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4. FORT DE SAVOIE, COLMARS
Perched atop medieval walls, this 17th-century fortress has a grim, businesslike look
when compared with the fairytale medieval castles found elsewhere in Provence. It
was built to withstand cannon fire, not just arrows and siege towers. The work of
master military engineer Vauban, it is a remarkable testimony to his skill. The Fort
de France, the second of this former frontier garrison's strongholds, has fared less
well and lies in ruins.
Open Jul-Aug: 10am daily for guided tours; Sep-Jun: by
appt • Adm
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5. LURS
Founded before the reign of Charlemagne, during the Dark Ages, the town of Lurs
was fortified as early as the 9th century AD, when it was ruled by the bishops of Sis-
teron and the princes of Lurs. Deserted in the 19th century, it has now become an
artists' colony. There are stupendous views from the Promenade des Evêques (Bish-
ops' Walk) leading to the chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Vie, especially colourful in spring
when the wildflowers bloom.
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6. VILLE FORTE, ENTREVAUX
The citadel of Entrevaux is one of the most dramatic of all the region's many fort-
resses. Perched on a pinnacle above the fairytale town, it can be reached only by a
zig-zag path which passes through more than a dozen arched gateways. Lying be-
neath it, the impregnable Ville Forte is ringed by towers and ramparts and reached
by a drawbridge.
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