Attractions and Places To See around Tartonne - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Tartonne include a blend of historical sites, natural wonders, and unique artistic installations within the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. This small village is situated within the Geological Nature Reserve of Haute Provence, offering insights into millions of years of geological history. Visitors can explore its rich historical heritage, including ancient religious buildings and the remains of a 17th-century château. Tartonne is also recognized as a "Village étoilé" due to its exceptionally clear skies, making it suitable…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Saint-Michel-de-Cousson Chapel
Highlight • Religious Site
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Digne-les-Bains
Highlight • Settlement
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Col du Défens (1,230 m)
Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Sentinel of the Asse – Andy Goldsworthy
Highlight • Monument
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Entrages Village
Highlight • Settlement
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Beautiful landscape, small road, only the last bends are strenuous.
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At the bend of a hairpin bend, this egg is a work of Andy Goldsworthy. This is one of the three “Sentinels” of the Refuge d’Art course; it represents the Asse valley.
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This place of worship, the chapel "Saint-Michel-de-Cousson", was dedicated to the Archangel Michael. The name (coming from the Hebrew language) means “Who is like God?” He is often depicted - in paintings or as a statue - with a flaming sword, and occasionally a lance. Michael is - together with Raphael and Gabriel, occasionally Uriel is also included - one of the three or four archangels who (according to human understanding) occupy the highest rank in the heavenly hierarchy of angelic beings. Their common feast day in the saints' calendar is September 29th.
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On the western slope, after going up the long Asse de Clumanc Valley from Barrême, the difficulties really begin in Tartonne with a first ramp of 1.5 km at 6.5%. Then after a small flat area comes a nice final of 2.6 km where the slope will be around 7%. On this side you can see one of Andy Goldsworthy's sentinels, an ovoid-shaped cairn placed at the side of the road as part of an artistic trail created by this renowned artist practicing land art. On the eastern slope, nothing very complicated until Lambruisse with 5 km where the hardest passage will not exceed 4.5%. On the other hand, things become tougher with the final including 1.8 km at 6.5% on average, but the last 350 meters are at 8.5%. The road is very beautiful and quiet on both sides. This pass is enchanting.
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This strange construction which sits in one of the bends of the Col du Défens is in reality a work by Andy Goldsworthy, a major figure in land art. It is part of the route entitled “Refuge d’art” which offers a 150 kilometer hike, imagined and created by the British artist through the National Geological Nature Reserve of Haute-Provence. This artistic itinerary, original and unique in Europe, combining contemporary art, hiking and rural heritage, includes ten works scattered throughout the Dignois region. Among them, three ovoid stone cairns, designated as “Sentinels”, one for each of the three valleys of the Haute-Provence Geological Reserve. Besides this one which represents the Asse valley, you can find another sentinel in the Clue de Barles, at the edge of the road at the foot of the cliff, representing the Bès valley, and the third in the commune of Authon in the Vançon valley. “It is the top of the cairn which brings the energy of the stone to its peak, just as it is in the keystone of an arch that all the energy is concentrated. »Andy Goldsworthy Andy Goldsworthy's work and vision were the subject of a film entitled "Rivers and tides" which you can see here: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x15e83f?playlist=x54l1y or just the trailer: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xjggqk?fbclid=IwAR2l_oUGJuU5sc5vLobLojCfRrBf3xa42fqjOKc-uL4DrOQomGKoypSHfWk For more information on the “Refuge d’art” route: https://www.tourisme-alpes-haute-provence.com/refuge-art-andy-goldsworthy/
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The ascent of the Col du Défens is on a good quality road with very little traffic, beautiful scenery and an easy climb on both sides. The icing on the cake is an egg-shaped sculpture by Andy Goldworthy that you will come across at some point.
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Entrages is a pretty village of only 100 inhabitants located in a superb wild and hilly site.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and religious sites can I explore near Tartonne?
Tartonne and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the remarkable Church of Notre-Dame d'Entraigues, dating from the 12th to 14th centuries, which is a listed religious heritage site. Another classified religious heritage site is the Chapelle Saint Jean Baptiste. Don't miss the Saint-Michel-de-Cousson Chapel, perched on a rocky outcrop, offering breathtaking views. The village also features remains of a 17th-century château and charming fountains and wash houses.
Are there any unique natural attractions or geological wonders in the area?
Absolutely. Tartonne is nestled within the Geological Nature Reserve of Haute Provence, renowned for its spectacular geological curiosities. You can discover the impressive "Défens fault," a massive break in the earth's crust, and various fossils. The area is also part of the "Time Trail" due to its significant geological history. The Col du Défens (1,230 m) offers magnificent scenery and is a natural monument.
What kind of outdoor activities are available around Tartonne?
Tartonne is an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy numerous hiking and mountain biking trails, including sections of the Grande Traversée des Préalpes and the Chemins du Soleil. For road cycling, explore routes like the "Climb to Col de Pierre Basse – Corobin Pass loop" or the "Ammonite slab – Alexandra David-Néel House loop." Mountain biking options include the "Randuro Terres Noires Trail." For runners, there's the "Chapelle Saint-Michel-de-Cousson depuis Entrages in trail." Find more routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Tartonne, MTB Trails around Tartonne, and Running Trails around Tartonne guides.
Is Tartonne a good destination for families?
Yes, Tartonne offers several family-friendly options. The tranquil Entrages Village, surrounded by wild meadows and wooded hills, provides a peaceful setting. The spa town of Digne-les-Bains, known for its geological treasures and ammonite slab, is also considered family-friendly and offers an aquatic complex. Exploring the natural features of the Geological Nature Reserve can also be an educational and engaging activity for children.
Where can I experience unique art installations near Tartonne?
Tartonne is home to a unique contemporary art piece called "La Sentinelle" by Andy Goldsworthy. This artistic work is part of the “Refuge d’art” route, an original and unique artistic itinerary in Europe that combines contemporary art, hiking, and rural heritage. You can find this specific sentinel at the Sentinel of the Asse – Andy Goldsworthy highlight, located at the bend of the Col du Défens.
What is the best time to visit Tartonne for outdoor activities?
The region around Tartonne is ideal for outdoor activities during the warmer months, typically from spring through autumn. This period offers pleasant weather for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the natural landscapes. The clear skies also make it perfect for stargazing during these seasons.
Can I go stargazing in Tartonne?
Yes, Tartonne is an excellent spot for stargazing. It is officially labeled a "Village étoilé" (starry village) due to its exceptionally clear skies, making it a popular destination for astronomy enthusiasts seeking to observe the night sky away from light pollution.
Are there any local markets or culinary experiences to enjoy?
While Tartonne itself is a small village, the wider region offers opportunities to explore local markets. Visitors can find markets in and around Tartonne where local producers offer tasty regional products. The local cuisine is considered a significant tourist attraction, providing a chance to savor authentic Provençal flavors.
What is the significance of Digne-les-Bains near Tartonne?
Digne-les-Bains is a notable settlement near Tartonne, recognized as a spa town specializing in rheumatology and respiratory tract treatments. Beyond its thermal baths, it's famous for its ammonite slab and numerous geological treasures, making it a fascinating place for those interested in natural history and geology.
What kind of views can I expect from the viewpoints around Tartonne?
The area around Tartonne offers stunning panoramic views. From the Saint-Michel-de-Cousson Chapel, you'll get a breathtaking vista from its promontory. The Col du Défens (1,230 m) also provides magnificent scenery. The region is characterized by uniquely folded and eroded stony hills, wooded landscapes, and rolling fields, with the Cheval Blanc Mountain as a prominent backdrop.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots worth visiting?
Beyond the main attractions, the charm of Tartonne lies in its tranquil, preserved natural setting. The village itself, with its small square, refreshing fountain, and charming stone-built houses, offers a glimpse into a slower pace of life. The Salt Well is another natural curiosity within the village that provides a unique point of interest.
What makes Entrages Village a special place to visit?
Entrages Village, though close to Digne-les-Bains, feels like an "end of the world" due to its secluded location at the end of a cul-de-sac road. This ensures great tranquility for visitors. It's surrounded by beautiful wild meadows, rocky bars, and wooded hills, making it an ideal starting point for hiking trails, including those leading to the summit of Cousson.
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