Attractions and Places To See around Fontienne - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Fontienne include a blend of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural insights. This village is situated in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department of southeastern France. It is set amidst landscapes between the Lure and Luberon mountains, offering a variety of outdoor and historical exploration opportunities. The region is known for its diverse scenery, from eroded rock formations to lavender fields.
Best attractions and places to see around Fontienne
- The most popular attractions is Between Forcalquier and Villeneuve, a road section that offers views towards the Maritime Alps and the Grand Luberon. It is well-signposted and known for its morning atmosphere.
- Another must-see spot is Forcalquier, a settlement located between the Lure mountain and the Luberon. Its historic center features narrow streets, squares, and a citadel topped by the Notre-Dame-de-Provence chapel.
- Visitors also love Parco naturale Regionale del Luberon, a nature park with an exceptional natural heritage. It has been classified as a biosphere reserve and a world geopark by UNESCO.
- Fontienne is known for its historical sites, unique geological formations, and extensive hiking trails. Visitors can explore Romanesque churches, ancient castles, and natural parks.
- The attractions around Fontienne are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 220 upvotes and over 120 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Forcalquier
Highlight • Settlement
Its name means "Lime Kiln". The Citadel, in the center of the city, is a set of fortifications, topped by the Notre-Dame-de-Provence chapel.
The old town dates back to the 13th century for some residences. Its rich architecture is made up of narrow streets and squares. A very interesting and interactive museum with the world of perfumes as its theme is located in Forcalquier. For more information visit this website: artemisia-museum.fr
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Abbey Church of Cruis
Highlight • Religious Site
From the 16th to the 19th century, Cruis was an important center for peddlers and druggists whose activity consisted of traveling the mountains to pick aromatic or medicinal plants and resell them on the market. Thanks to this rich past, the village has retained a certain cachet offering a network of small flowery streets, squares with fountains or washhouses, and old houses with stone facades and roofs in harmonious colors.
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À Pas de la Graille (1597m)
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Between Forcalquier and Villeneuve
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Parco naturale Regionale del Luberon
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Tips from the Community
The Provencal herb route. Thyme and rosemary everywhere 😋
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Beautiful old streets to stroll through. You can feel history in every corner, for example the cinema is located in an old monastery. Mondays are market days.
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Today, this special place is very lively and typically Provencal. Every Monday a local market is organized in the town, where you are at the right place for local specialties. Partly thanks to its favorable location in relation to both the beautiful area known as the Luberon with its countless beautiful towns, and the world-famous Gorges du Verdon, this place is an excellent holiday destination for a versatile holiday in Provence!
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Forcalquier is a town located in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department, in the Provence region. Forcalquier is known as a typical Provencal town and is therefore a popular holiday destination. The town is built around a steep hill and is located about thirty kilometers south of Sisteron.
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Forcalquier is a commune in the French department of Alpes-de-Haute-Provence in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region which had a population of 5,115[1] on January 1, 2020. The place is the sub-prefecture of the arrondissement of Forcalquier.
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It can only be seen in flower from mid-June until the end of July.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in and around Fontienne?
Fontienne and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the historic center of Forcalquier, known for its narrow streets and the citadel topped by the Notre-Dame-de-Provence chapel. Within Fontienne itself, explore the Romanesque origins of the Église Saint-Pierre, the 13th-century Château de Fontienne with its distinctive machicolated tower, and the ancient Priory featuring a sundial. Don't miss the Abbey Church of Cruis, an elegant Romanesque church with a cloister, located in a village known for its historical charm.
Are there any unique natural features to see near Fontienne?
Absolutely. A must-see is Les Mourres, a unique geological site near Fontienne with eroded limestone rock formations resembling large mushrooms. You can also explore the Vallon de l'eau salée (Saltwater Valley) via a signposted walking trail from the village. The region is also part of the picturesque Lavender Route, offering stunning views during blooming season. For broader natural beauty, the Parco naturale Regionale del Luberon, a UNESCO biosphere reserve and world geopark, is nearby.
What kind of outdoor activities are available around Fontienne?
The area around Fontienne is ideal for various outdoor activities. Hiking is very popular, with the GR6 Long-Distance Hiking Trail passing directly through the commune. You can find numerous trails for different skill levels, including a 2 km easy hiking trail around Les Mourres. For cycling enthusiasts, there are many routes, including those that tackle the Montagne de Lure Pass. Mountain biking is also an option, with trails like the rocky track near Les Mourres. You can find detailed routes for MTB Trails, Cycling, and Road Cycling around Fontienne.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Fontienne area?
Yes, the region offers several family-friendly options. Exploring the historic center of Forcalquier with its charming streets and citadel can be an engaging experience for families. The easy 2 km hiking trail around Les Mourres is also suitable for families. Additionally, the broader Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department offers opportunities for horse riding, and exploring local markets in nearby towns like Forcalquier can be a fun cultural activity.
What are some scenic drives or viewpoints near Fontienne?
For scenic drives, the section Between Forcalquier and Villeneuve is highly recommended, offering views towards the Maritime Alps and the Grand Luberon. Fontienne is also located on the picturesque Lavender Route, which provides beautiful views of lavender fields during their blooming season. The village itself is nestled between the Lure and Luberon mountains, offering sublime natural landscapes and clear skies, especially during seasonal changes.
Can I find any hidden gems or less-known spots in Fontienne?
Beyond the main attractions, Fontienne holds several charming, less-known spots. The Lavoir and Fontaine de Diane, carved directly into the rock beneath road D116, offers refreshing, cool water and a glimpse into traditional village life. The authentic charm of Fontienne's historic center, with its human-scale architecture and paved streets, is particularly noticeable in autumn. Exploring the village's quiet corners can reveal beautiful old doors and sundials, like the one at the Ancient Priory.
What is the best time of year to visit Fontienne for its attractions?
Fontienne offers different charms throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for experiencing the vibrant lavender fields along the Lavender Route, with blooming season typically from mid-June until the end of July. Autumn provides a beautiful contrast of vegetation colors against the stone architecture of the village, making it a picturesque time for exploration. The region's clear skies are a constant, but specific activities might be best enjoyed in milder weather.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Fontienne?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical richness and natural beauty. The road section between Forcalquier and Villeneuve is loved for its stunning views and peaceful morning atmosphere. The historic center of Forcalquier is praised for its authentic old streets and sense of history. The unique geological formations of Les Mourres and the extensive hiking opportunities, including the GR6, are also highly valued by those seeking outdoor adventures.
Are there opportunities to experience local culture or products in Fontienne?
Yes, Fontienne offers a taste of local Provençal culture. You can discover local products such as goat cheese from GAEC de Lautin and other local crafts from Les Ar'Tisanes, both located directly in Fontienne. While not in Fontienne itself, nearby towns like Forcalquier (6 km away) host vibrant local markets, providing an excellent opportunity to sample Provençal gastronomic specialties and experience local life.
What are some notable natural wonders within a short drive of Fontienne?
Within a short driving distance, you can explore several impressive natural wonders. The picturesque Gorges d'Oppedette is about 19 km away, and the vibrant ochre cliffs of the Colorado Provençal are approximately 26 km. For a grander scale, the magnificent Gorges du Verdon is about 50 km away. Additionally, beautiful lakes like Lac d'Esparron (34 km) and Lac de Sainte-Croix (42 km) offer natural beauty and recreational activities.
Are there any specific hiking trails recommended for beginners or easy walks?
For beginners or those looking for an easy walk, the 2 km hiking trail around Les Mourres is highly recommended. This trail allows you to experience the unique geological formations without significant difficulty. Additionally, the Vallon de l'eau salée (Saltwater Valley) offers a signposted walking trail starting directly from the village, which is an interpretative path suitable for a leisurely stroll.
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