Sisteron and the Buëch Valley: the perfect van getaway between nature and history

Discover Sisteron and the Buëch Valley, a wild land where breathtaking landscapes meet a rich historical heritage. Ideal for road-trippers in a van or motorhome!

By the Le Campeur editorial team · 19 August 2026

Nestled between the Alps and Provence, Sisteron and the Buëch Valley offer a unique blend of untouched nature and cultural treasures. Here, winding roads lead to stunning sites: towering citadels, dizzying gorges and authentic villages. Ready to explore? Here are five must-see spots not to miss on your van or motorhome adventure.

Citadelle de Sisteron

Perched on a rock, this medieval fortress overlooks the town and the Buëch Valley. Its ramparts offer a stunning view of the surrounding mountains.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping à la ferme — Valernes Campsite ★ 4.9 Farm campsite run by a beekeeper, 6 km from Sisteron. 6 flat pitches under pine trees, drinking water point. › Chambres d'Hôtes Les Maïsses Motorhome area ★ 4.9 Private wooded area 5 km away, €10 per night. Large grassy pitches, all services included. › Camping les randonneurs Campsite ★ 5 Rustic isolated campsite, 7 km from Sisteron. 20 spacious pitches in the heart of nature. › Grassy parking Sisteron Parking ★ 4.3 Grassy mountain car park with spectacular views over the Durance. Access via D17, 31-minute walk. › Roadside parking Sisteron Parking ★ 4.6 Free roadside parking, 10-minute walk from the centre. Linear spaces, quiet and convenient. ›

Rocher de la Baume

This spectacular natural site, carved by erosion, is a legendary hiking spot. The view from the top is well worth the climb.

Where to sleep nearby

Moine viewpoint parking Mouthier-Haute-Pierre Parking ★ 4.4 Stunning views over the Loue Valley, 16-minute walk. Shaded tables and hiking trails nearby. › Camping Municipal Le Pré Bailly Campsite ★ 4.5 Campsite by the River Loue in Vuillafans, 5 km by car. Shaded and peaceful pitches, rated 4.5/5. › Quiet riverside parking Vuillafans Parking ★ 4.1 Free parking by the River Loue, 5 km by car. Swimming possible, flat and spacious ground. › Camping municipal le Champaloux Campsite ★ 4.3 Pastoral campsite by the River Loue, 38-minute walk. Clean facilities, very peaceful atmosphere. › Parking at forest edge Hautepierre-le-Châtelet Parking ★ 4.3 Natural parking on the edge of a forest, 25-minute walk. Ultra-quiet setting, open meadow with field views. ›

Gorges de la Méouge

A designated nature reserve, these wild gorges are home to exceptional wildlife and flora. A paradise for nature lovers and fans of grand landscapes.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping les randonneurs Campsite ★ 5 5-star campsite in the heart of nature, spacious and wooded. 8-minute drive, absolute tranquillity. › Chambres d'Hôtes Les Maïsses Motorhome area ★ 4.9 Private area €10 per night, shaded and spacious. 7 minutes from Sisteron, all services included. › State forest parking Entrepierres Parking ★ 4.5 Free parking near a quiet hamlet, unobstructed views. 6-minute drive, flat ground. › Camping à la ferme — Valernes Campsite ★ 4.9 Farm campsite with beekeeping, 6 pitches under pine trees. 7-minute drive, warm welcome. › Riverbed parking Bevons Parking ★ 5 Wild parking in a riverbed, 4x4 access. 5-minute drive, very tranquil setting. ›

Village of Chabestan

This charming medieval village, tucked away in the heart of the Durée, wins visitors over with its cobbled streets and authentic atmosphere. Don’t miss its Romanesque church and stone houses.

Where to sleep nearby

Glamping La Jument Noire Campsite ★ 5 5-star glamping in the heart of nature, full services. 45-minute walk from Chabestan. › Rue de la Gare, Aspres-sur-Buëch Motorhome area ★ 4 Free area with services (water, toilets, waste disposal). 6-minute drive (5 km). › Riverside parking Serres Parking ★ 4.7 Free shaded parking by the River Buëch. 8-minute drive (7 km). › Quiet picnic parking Aspres-sur-Buëch Parking ★ 4.7 Quiet picnic area under pine trees, flat ground. 6-minute drive (6 km). › Camping Les rives du Lac Campsite ★ 4.2 Renovated lakeside campsite with pool and activities. 5-minute drive (5 km). ›

Lac de Serre-Ponçon

Straddling the Hautes-Alpes and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, this artificial lake is the perfect spot for swimming, paddleboarding or simply relaxing. Its turquoise waters contrast beautifully with the surrounding mountains.

Where to sleep nearby

Rousset Parking ★ 4.9 Free parking by the lake, beach and pedalos nearby. Motorhome access allowed from 8 PM to 9 AM, 8-minute drive. › Camping Le Clos du Lac Campsite ★ 4.5 Peaceful high-altitude campsite with stunning lake views. Immaculate facilities, on-site shop, 5-minute drive. › Les Lionnets, Rousset Motorhome area ★ 4.4 Free motorhome area with spectacular water views. Parking allowed from 8 PM to 9 AM, 8-minute drive. › Lakeside view parking Le Sauze-du-Lac Parking ★ 4.7 Parking at 1000 m altitude with 280° views over the lake. 2 spaces, drivable track, 6-minute drive. › Camping les Sources Campsite ★ 4.5 Family-friendly shaded campsite, 5-minute walk from the lake. Warm welcome, clean facilities, 5-minute drive. ›

Pont de la Beaume

This medieval bridge spanning the River Beaume is an architectural gem. It provides a picturesque setting for a photo stop or a riverside stroll.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Le Saut du Loup Campsite ★ 5 5-star campsite with pool and pizza. 6-minute drive, absolute tranquillity. › Gravel path parking Pradons Parking ★ 4.4 Rocky promontory in the heart of nature. 4x4 access, stunning views (6 km). › Community hall parking Pradons beach Parking ★ 4.8 Parking 100 m from the beach, swimming. Free, clean, bins provided (5 km). › Open view parking Chauzon Parking ★ 4 24-hour roadside parking. Open views, very quiet (7 km). › Camping Les Trouillères Campsite ★ 4.9 Family campsite by the River Ardèche. Private beach, shaded (5 km). ›

See all spots on the map