Discover Barcelonnette and the Ubaye valley: an unmissable summer destination

Nestled in the heart of the Alpes de Haute-Provence, Barcelonnette is a charming destination ideal for a family summer vacation. This small mountain town seduces with its authenticity, lively alleyways and rich heritage inspired by Mexican influences, visible in particular in its famous villas.

Visitors can discover :

  • The historic town center with its markets, terraces and colorful houses
  • The Valley Museum
  • Mexican villas built by emigrants returning from Mexico
  • Numerous summer festivities such as open-air concerts and Latin-Mexican festivals

When it comes to activities, the Ubaye Valley offers a wide range of options for all ages:

  • Family hikes or challenging hikes starting from the Alpine passes
  • Rafting or kayaking on the Ubaye River
  • Tree-top adventure courses for children
  • Bike rides along the Route des Grandes Alpes
  • Windsurfing or paddleboarding on Lake Serre-Ponçon
  • Free flight and paragliding from the surrounding peaks

In summer, Barcelonnette combines nature, culture, and a warm, friendly atmosphere. It’s a family-friendly resort on a human scale, where you can take the time to live at the pace of vacation. Its lively yet soothing atmosphere makes it the perfect base for recharging your batteries, exploring the Alps, and sharing precious moments with loved ones.

Just a few kilometers from Lake Serre-Ponçon and Camping La Palatrière

Planning your next vacation at the 3-star Camping La Palatrière? Our ideal location on the shores of Lake Serre-Ponçon allows you to easily explore the entire region. Among the must-see excursions during your stay, head to Barcelonnette.

Located just 45 minutes from the campground, in the heart of the wild Ubaye Valley, this sub-prefecture of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is a true gem. A star of the Alps with Mexican flair, it blends the gentle Alpine lifestyle with a touch of exoticism. Follow the guide!

🎉 🇲🇽 The UnusualHistory of Barcelonnette’s Mexican Villas

It’s the great mystery that intrigues all tourism enthusiasts in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. Why are there colonial- and Art Deco-inspired mansions right in the middle of the mountains of the 04 department?

It all began in the 19th century. Thousands of daring young men from Ubaye left their native valley. Their destination? Mexico, to make their fortune in the textile trade and department stores.

Those who succeeded returned home with their fortunes made. To display their social success, they built sumptuous bourgeois mansions surrounded by shaded parks. These are the famous Mexican villas of Barcelonnette.

  • Where can you see them? Take a stroll along Avenue de la Libération and Avenue des Trois Frères Arnaud. The architecture there is monumental and unique in Europe.
  • Must-see: Villa Sapinière, which now houses the Musée de la Vallée. A fascinating place to learn about the epic journey of these emigrants.
  • The event not to be missed: Every August, the town comes alive for the Latin-Mexican Festival. Mariachi concerts, colorful parades, dance performances... The atmosphere is electric—an ideal outing for the whole family from our campground!

🍹🌵Whatto do and see in Barcelonnette? The must-sees

Barcelonnette holds the "Station Verte" certification and has a warm atmosphere that charms you from the very first moment. Here’s our checklist so you don’t miss a thing:

1. The historic center and Place Manuel

The heart of the town is entirely pedestrian-friendly. Stroll among the pastel-colored facades that evoke nearby Italy. Stop by Place Manuel, dominated by the magnificent 14th-century Cardinalis Tower. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a scoop of artisanal ice cream on a terrace or sample local specialties (tourtons, oreilles d’âne, génépi).

2. A paradise for outdoor sports and hiking

Located at the gateway to the Mercantour National Park, the town is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts:

  • Whitewater sports on the Ubaye: The Ubaye River is one of Europe’s last wild rivers, with no dams. It’s a world-renowned spot to try your hand at rafting, kayaking, or canyoning. Thrills guaranteed!
  • Hiking: Hundreds of kilometers of marked trails await you, particularly toward the sublime Lauzanier Valley or the high-altitude lakes of the Mercantour.

3. Legendary mountain passes for cyclists

If you love cycling, Barcelonnette is surrounded by road cycling giants. It’s the ideal starting point to take on the great passes of the Tour de France:

  • The Col d'Allos (2,247 m)
  • The Col de la Cayolle (2,326 m)
  • The dizzying Cime de la Bonette (2,802 m), the highest paved road in France!

🚘 Directions : Getting to the Ubaye Valley from the campground

Getting to Barcelonnette from Camping La Palatrière couldn’t be easier. Head toward Lauzet-Ubaye. The road is a spectacle in itself: it winds along the Ubaye Gorges, offering wild panoramas between limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.

After a busy day exploring artisanal markets, climbing mountain peaks, or getting your adrenaline pumping on a rafting trip, you’ll appreciate the return to calm. Come back to the serenity of your campsite or the modern comforts of your mobile home rental at Lac de Serre-Ponçon.

Enjoy the sunset over the lake, gazing at the peaks you’ve just conquered!

🌅 Ready for adventure? Book your vacation at Camping La Palatrière now and plan your trip to Ubaye!