Attractions and Places To See around Authon - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Authon are found in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region of France, nestled within the rugged terrain of the Massif des Monges. This area is characterized by its natural beauty, offering diverse landscapes from canyons to mountain summits. Visitors can explore a variety of natural attractions and historical sites, making it a destination for outdoor activities. The region provides opportunities for exploring hiking trails and discovering unique geological formations.
Best attractions and places to see around Authon
- The most popular attractions is Clue de Barles, a canyon that features a road opening spectacularly in the heart of the mountain along a river. This impressive canyon splits the rock, offering a unique natural spectacle.
- Another must-see spot is Col des Sagnes, a mountain pass culminating at 1182m. This isolated location allows passage between the Durance and Grand Vallon valleys, featuring a series of hairpin bends on its southern ascent.
- Visitors also love Saut de la Pie Waterfall, a wild and picturesque site. This waterfall is rich in ecological terms, with exceptional plants colonizing its inaccessible walls, offering a beautiful and ever-renewed spectacle through the seasons.
- Authon is known for its natural monuments, mountain passes, and canyons. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from medieval villages to high-altitude summits.
- The attractions around Authon are appreciated by the komoot community, with 15 upvotes and 5 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Fontbelle Pass
Highlight • Mountain Pass
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Thoard
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We enjoy an ice cream there or sit at the inn. Village festivals punctuate the lives of residents throughout the year in this town where the surrounding area is concentrated.
Beautiful views of the lavender fields make it a destination that smells of Provence.
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Saut de la Pie Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
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Col des Sagnes
Highlight (Segment) • Other
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Les Monges
Highlight • Summit
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Tips from the Community
Obligatory photo when you arrive at this waterfall.
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Thoard is a dynamic medieval village. The town is full of streets and galleries. The bell tower of the 12th century church dominates the city perched on its rocky outcrop. We enjoy an ice cream there or sit at the inn. Village festivals punctuate the lives of residents throughout the year in this town where the surrounding area is concentrated. Beautiful views of the lavender fields make it a destination that smells of Provence.
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From Sisteron, the Col de Fontbelle is 26.3 kilometers of climbs with segments at 6 or 7%, and others between 1.5 and 5%. In your ascent, passing the intermediate Mézien pass after the 6th kilometer tells you that you have made the first part complicated and that you are starting the second part, long but less steep. On the open parts of the pass, you can see the mountain of Gueruen and the mountain of Mélan and its Grande Aiguille.
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A wild and picturesque place and very rich in environmental terms: exceptional plants (orange lilies, goat's beard, coal, yew) colonize its inaccessible walls. The waterfall offers us, through its different lighting, and throughout the seasons, a very beautiful and always renewed spectacle. It is also an archaeological site since in 1953 workers discovered over the waterfall, under a rock, about forty ancient weapons dating from the 4th century BC. They are currently stored in the Digne les Bains museum.
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The Col de Fontbelle culminates at 1304m. From the village of Thoard it is a climb of almost 13km which comes in two parts. The first is the most difficult with sustained percentages over almost 9 km including 3 at more than 8% on average which will take you to the hamlet of Mélan then the intermediate pass of Hyssop (1236m) where moreover an exceptional panorama will offer to you (we don't make an effort for nothing anyway). The second part is relatively simple with lower percentages, barely 2.5 km at 3% average which joins the col de Fontbelle located in the forest in a VERY isolated way
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The Col des Sagnes culminating at 1182m allows the passage between the Durance and Grand Vallon valleys. Its isolated location will allow you to drive with peace of mind. On the north side the ascent presents a rather irregular profile. On the south side it is more regular with a difficult finish (from 8 to 10% over one kilometer) via the Tourniquets, a tight succession of hairpin bends.
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Located at 2,115 meters, Les Monges is the highest point of the Digne Pre-Alps and offers beautiful views of the region. The hike from Esparron is varied and is done along the Lac des Monges, through the forest and the mountain pastures.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Authon?
Authon, nestled in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, offers a variety of natural wonders. You can visit the impressive Clue de Barles, a canyon where the road dramatically opens through the mountain alongside a river. Another highlight is the Saut de la Pie Waterfall, a wild and picturesque site known for its ecological richness and unique plant life. The region is also part of the Haute-Provence Geopark, offering remarkable natural settings and opportunities to admire peaks like Costebelle and Jouère.
Are there opportunities for hiking near Authon?
Yes, Authon is an excellent base for hiking. The area features rugged terrain and stunning natural beauty, with trails ranging from moderate to difficult. For example, you can find routes like the "Les Monges – Coste Belle Summit loop from Authon" or the "Saint Vincent Cave – Fontbelle Pass loop from Authon." You can explore more hiking options on the Hiking around Authon guide page.
What kind of cycling routes are available around Authon?
The Authon area provides diverse cycling opportunities. For road cyclists, there are routes like the "Col de Grele – Clamensane loop" or the challenging "Les Tourniquets – Col des Garcinets loop." Touring cyclists can also find routes such as the "Fontbelle Tour from Sisteron." Discover more details and routes on the Cycling around Authon guide page and the Road Cycling Routes around Authon guide page.
What historical or cultural sites are there to visit in the Authon area?
While Authon in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is primarily known for its natural beauty, you can visit the medieval village of Thoard, perched on a rocky peak and dominated by its 12th-century bell tower. It offers charming streets and beautiful views of lavender fields. Additionally, the Sainte Marte Chapel, known as a "sanctuary of respite," is a historic site associated with many local stories.
What is the highest point in the region around Authon, and what does it offer?
The highest point in the Digne Pre-Alps near Authon is Les Monges, culminating at 2,115 meters. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding region. The hike to Les Monges from Esparron is varied, passing through forests and mountain pastures, and often alongside the Lac des Monges.
Are there any family-friendly activities or attractions in Authon?
Authon's natural environment provides excellent opportunities for family-friendly outdoor activities, such as easy walks and picnics in scenic spots. Exploring the Clue de Barles canyon or visiting the Saut de la Pie Waterfall can be exciting for families who enjoy nature. The region's pastoral spaces also offer gentle landscapes for exploration.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Authon?
Visitors to Authon particularly appreciate the dramatic natural landscapes. The Clue de Barles canyon is often described as "exceptional" and "gorgeous" for its spectacular road through the mountain. The Saut de la Pie Waterfall is admired for its wild beauty and ever-renewed spectacle through the seasons. The isolated location of Col des Sagnes is valued for peaceful drives.
When is the best time of year to visit Authon for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Authon for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling is generally from spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the natural landscapes and mountain passes. Winter can offer opportunities for snow-related activities, but many trails might be inaccessible.
Can I find unique artistic installations in the Authon area?
Yes, Authon in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is home to a unique artistic installation: a "Sentinel" by the renowned artist Andy Goldsworthy. This adds a cultural touch to the stunning natural landscape of the region.
Are there any notable mountain passes to explore near Authon?
Absolutely. One significant mountain pass is Col des Sagnes, which culminates at 1182m. This isolated pass connects the Durance and Grand Vallon valleys and is known for its series of hairpin bends on the southern ascent, offering a peaceful driving or cycling experience.
What kind of landscapes characterize the Authon region?
The Authon region in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence is characterized by its rugged terrain within the Monges massif. You'll find diverse landscapes ranging from deep canyons and river valleys to high mountain summits and pastoral spaces. The area is rich in natural beauty, with wooded sections, discreetly hilly areas, and protected zones for biodiversity, including ponds.
Most popular attractions around Authon
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