La Motte-Du-Caire: Village History, Hiking and Gliding

La Motte-du-Caire brings together several distinct themes for trip planning: historic architectural and artistic landmarks, a circular hike and gliding activities. There is also a treasure hunt for children and a regional honey producer. If you are looking for a hotel, you can first consider whether village history, a hike or a particular activity should shape your stay.

Church, Art and Village History

La Motte-du-Caire is documented under the name “La Mota” from 1168. The name refers to a medieval motte castrale, or fortified mound. This early history of the name sits alongside the later-dated architectural and artistic landmarks of the village.

Several dates come together at the parish church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine: the church building was constructed in 1851, while the surviving bell tower dates from 1785. Inside is a “Deposition from the Cross” from the 17th century, classified as a historic monument. The building, tower and artwork can thus be understood as distinct records of the village’s history.

A surviving house also recalls the Trinitarian monastery, founded in 1498. Its doorframe is dated 1682 and bears a Maltese cross. Some of the monastery buildings have disappeared; the house, with its preserved details, keeps the connection to the monastery alive.

Rue Casse-Cul is one of the steep lanes in La Motte-du-Caire. Among the old houses with traditional façades, the village’s rural and artisanal past comes into view. The lane and the house with the dated doorframe offer different perspectives: here, the preserved façades and village history; there, a tangible reminder of the monastery.

Hiking and Activities

The Tour de la Blachère (No. 24) starts in La Motte-du-Caire and is a five-hour, moderately difficult circular hike. It is 14.3 kilometres long and has an elevation gain of 540 metres. The route crosses Rocher Roux, follows the foothills of Montagne de la Blachère and passes through the La Gypière valley. On the return, it goes through the Grand Vallon valley. The duration, distance and elevation gain offer different points of reference for planning; practical route details may be updated, so it is advisable to check the latest information before setting out.

For gliding enthusiasts, the Club de Vol à Voile de la Motte du Caire offers trial flights, introductory courses and a flight school for glider pilots. Opening hours and availability may vary. If you would like to plan one of these activities, check in advance for your preferred dates and availability.

Randoland activity sheets for La Motte-du-Caire are designed as a treasure hunt and keep children aged 4 to 12 engaged along the route. The activity is therefore explicitly described for a particular age group. The options differ in format: the hike is described by duration, distance and elevation gain; gliding offers a choice of trial flight, introductory course or flight school; and Randoland is a treasure hunt for a specific age group.

Regional Products

The Miellerie Des abeilles et des fleurs produces various regional honeys, including honey from Provence, the Alps, the lavender region and the garrigue. These different references to origin complement the historical and landscape themes with a glimpse of regional honey production.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Michel-L'observatoire, Le Lauzet-Ubaye, Digne-Les-Bains, Curbans, Entrevaux, Allos, Castellane, La Foux.

For the broader travel overview: Alpes-De-Haute-Provence.