The hotel and restaurant La Bonne Étape, located between Aix-en-Provence and Gap, is the perfect place from which to visit the nearby charming towns and villages. The Alps of Haute-Provence are full of absolute gems and an exceptional heritage. Located 15 minutes from the hotel on the Route Napoléon, Sisteron is the gateway to Provence. Its location by the River Durance, its citadel facing the Baume cliff and its network of winding streets, have made it an admirable site. Just a half hour away between the mountains of Lure and the Luberon, Forcalquier is one of the major centres in Haute-Provence. Digne-les-Bains, just 25 minutes away, possesses an impressive geological reserve. Manosque is a magnificent medieval city dotted with fountains and small squares. Writer and native of the region Jean Giono claimed the town’s greatest treasure is its beauty. Moustiers Sainte Marie, at the gates to the Gorges du Verdon, is a hot spot for ceramics. All these southern towns host Provençal markets full of colour.

Also worth seeing are the villages of Cruis, Lurs, Mane and Dauphin, listed as “Villages et cités de caractère” (Villages and Towns of Character”). The “Villages et cités de caractère” road links these villages as well as providing superb view points over the most stunning landscapes in the Alps of Haute-Provence. By taking this route that crosses varied landscapes, you’ll pass through large lavender fields and up to the Alpine peaks.