Digne-les-Bains and the Alpes de Haute-Provence: a wild van adventure

Between towering mountains, cliffside villages and thermal springs, the Alpes de Haute-Provence offer vanlifers breathtaking landscapes and untouched natural sites. A road trip where adventure vies with relaxation.

By the Le Campeur editorial team · 2 July 2026

Here, there are no crowds or pretences, just the essentials: winding roads that climb towards the sky, sheer gorges carved by time, and villages where time seems to stand still. Digne-les-Bains, a sun-drenched prefecture, serves as the gateway to this wild territory where every bend holds a surprise. Ready to hit the road? Here are 5 must-see spots not to miss with your van or motorhome.

The Verdon Gorges

Ranked among Europe’s most beautiful canyons, these gorges offer jaw-dropping views, such as the Escalès belvedere. The Lac de Sainte-Croix below is perfect for a swim or a paddle.

Where to sleep nearby

Parking at Dent de l’Aire viewpoint La Palud-sur-Verdon Parking ★ 4.9 360° view of the gorges, flat and quiet parking. 6 min drive (5 km). › Campasun camping de l’Aigle Campsite ★ 4.4 3-star campsite with lake views, magical sunsets. 6 min drive (6 km). › D957, Aiguines Motorhome area ★ 3.4 Lakeside area, €10/night with facilities. 7 min drive (7 km). › Camping Bio Verdon Campsite ★ 4.3 Eco-friendly campsite in nature, shaded pitches. 46 min walk. › Gorge parking Gorges du Verdon Aiguines Parking ★ 4.8 Natural spot below, spectacular view. 7 min drive (6 km). ›

Lac de Serre-Ponçon

This man-made lake, nestled among mountains, is an ideal spot for water sports or a lakeside stroll. Its turquoise waters and wild surroundings make it magical, especially at sunset.

Where to sleep nearby

Flat parking Puy-Saint-Eusèbe Parking ★ 4.7 Breathtaking lake view, 6 km drive. Free, max 2-3 spaces, flat ground. › Camping Le Clos du Lac Campsite ★ 4.5 Peaceful high-altitude setting, stunning lake view. Immaculate toilets, small shop on site (5 km). › Les Lionnets, Rousset Motorhome area ★ 4.4 Free lakeside spot, spectacular view. Motorhomes only 20:00-09:00 (7 km). › Camping les Sources Campsite ★ 4.5 Family-friendly and shaded, 5 min walk from the lake. Warm welcome, clean toilets (4 km). › Camping familial Le Nautic Campsite ★ 4.3 Direct beach access, pool and jacuzzi. Panoramic view, ultra-clean toilets (17 min walk). ›

The medieval town of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Listed among France’s most beautiful villages, Moustiers combines cobbled streets, faience workshops and a waterfall overlooking the village. A must-visit for its charm and local craftsmanship.

Where to sleep nearby

La Ferme de Vauvenières Campsite ★ 4.8 Provençal farm 600 m away, large pitches in lavender fields. 7 min drive, rating 4.8. › Camping le Vieux Colombier Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly shaded campsite, 12 min walk from the village. Rating 4.7, 124 reviews. › Motorhome parking Pont du Galetas Aiguines Parking ★ 4.3 Free parking by the lake, spectacular gorges view. 6 min drive, 61 reviews. › 4x4 parking with hill view Moustiers-Sainte-Marie Parking ★ 4.7 Isolated spot overlooking the valley, clear south-facing view. 15 min walk, total peace. › Camping Saint Jean Campsite ★ 4.6 3-star shaded campsite, 10 min walk from the centre. Rating 4.6, ideal for exploring. ›

The Haute-Provence Geological Reserve

This unique site is packed with fossils and lunar landscapes shaped by erosion. Perfect for a hike blending science and wonder, with trails suitable for all.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping des Eaux Chaudes Campsite ★ 4.1 3-star waterside campsite, shaded pitches. 5 min drive, rating 4.1, guaranteed quiet. › Parking for vans Entrages Parking ★ 3.7 Isolated mountain village, start of Cousson hike. 5 min drive, free, winding access. › Parking with nearby water Digne-les-Bains Parking ★ 4.5 River parking, max 1-3 spaces, natural setting. 25 min walk, free, rating 4.5. › Camping du Bourg Campsite ★ 4 Wooded campsite, pool, new toilets. 6 min drive, rating 4, near the centre. › Avenue des Thermes, Digne Motorhome area ★ 3.1 Free area for 50 spaces, facilities, mountain views. 45 min walk, variable, rating 3.1. ›

Digne-les-Bains’ Saint-Jérome Cathedral

At the heart of the town, this 12th-century cathedral blends Romanesque and Gothic styles, with a peaceful cloister. A historic spot, ideal for a cultural break before hitting the road again.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping des Eaux Chaudes Campsite ★ 4.1 3-star riverside campsite, shaded and flat pitches. 18 min walk from the centre, rating 4.1/5. › Quiet Forest Parking Digne-les-Bains Parking ★ 4.7 Isolated forest spot under pines, very quiet. 26 min walk, free and shaded. › Parking of the great fountain Digne-les-Bains Parking ★ 4.1 Large free parking near the town centre, flat and quiet. 9 min walk, bins available. › Rugby stadium parking Digne-les-Bains Parking ★ 3.8 Parking at Lac de Gaubert, natural and peaceful setting. 6 min drive, ideal for 1-2 nights. › Aire de Camping-Car Digne-les-Bains Motorhome area ★ 3.3 Free area by the Durance, pedestrian access to the centre. Service point (water), 19 min walk. ›

The Valensole Plateau

Famous for its endless lavender fields in summer, this plateau offers iconic Provençal landscapes. In a van, the small roads crossing it are perfect for photo stops and picnics in nature.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping les Lavandes, Valensole Campsite ★ 4.7 360° view of the Alps and lavender, heated pool. 7 min drive, rating 4.6/5. › Route de Puimoisson, Riez Motorhome area ★ 4 Spacious area 200 m from Riez, water and waste disposal. 5 min drive, €7/night. › Lavender field ruin parking Allemagne-en-Provence Parking ★ 3.9 Full nature, flat ground among lavender fields. 29 min walk, free. › Camping Rose de Provence Campsite ★ 4.1 Family-friendly shaded campsite, pool and nearby market. 5 min drive, rating 4.3/5. › Convenient town centre parking Valensole Parking ★ 2.7 Large grassy parking, close to Valensole centre. 8 min drive, free. ›

See all spots on the map