Barles, Mountain commune in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France
Barles is a commune situated in a mountain valley at about 987 meters (3,240 feet) elevation, framed by steep cliffs and mountain ranges. The settlement lies within the Bès valley where distinct ridges create a dramatic landscape pattern.
The settlement first appeared in written records in 1193 under the name Barlis. A castle was constructed in 1206, followed by the establishment of a hospital, indicating its importance as a strategic location.
The Notre-Dame Church shapes the village center with its simple 19th-century architecture. It serves as a gathering place where local community members regularly come together.
The village is about 30 kilometers from Digne-les-Bains and accessible via the D900A road. From here, visitors can easily reach nearby hiking routes and geological sites in the surrounding area.
The Clues de Barles are two narrow canyons that preserve fossils from the Mesozoic era. They contain numerous ammonite shells alongside rare ichthyosaur bones, telling a story of an ancient sea.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
