Valbelle: Hiking and Heritage

Valbelle lies on the slope of the Montagne de Lure, seemingly forming a basin there. Several distinct themes can help you plan your trip: the circular hike to the Chapelle Saint-Pons, the historic traces along the Tour de Sumiou, and the climbing area, which is aimed at experienced climbers. There is also the Chapelle Saint-Honoré and the road that runs from Valbelle through the forest to the summit of the Montagne de Lure. You can get to know the area through its specific hiking destinations, cultural sites, and landscape features.

Hiking to the Chapelle Saint-Pons

The hike to the Chapelle Saint-Pons is an easy, family-friendly 4.7-kilometre circular route. The walking time is 1 hour 30 minutes, with 273 metres of ascent and 271 metres of descent. It starts and ends at the Mairie car park in Valbelle. This gives you clear details about the route and its starting point for planning your day.

The trail first passes through the Robines and a forest. The final section climbs more steeply in switchbacks to the chapel. The route therefore includes both a forest stretch and a distinctly steeper final ascent. Trail conditions can change; check the latest conditions before setting out.

Chapels among cliffs and ridges

The Chapelle Saint-Pons was built in the 11th century and is set against a large cliff above the Valbelle valley. From there, you can look out over the shady northern slope of the Montagne de Lure. Beside the chapel is the entrance to a cave that has inspired numerous local legends. The cliffside setting, valley views, and cave entrance bring landscape and heritage together here.

On the way to the Chapelle Saint-Pons, the Chapelle Saint-Honoré offers a viewpoint overlooking Saint-Pons, which is set against the cliff. Saint-Honoré stands on a ridge above Valbelle and was probably built in the 17th century. The chapels thus differ both in location and in their historical context: Saint-Pons dates from the 11th century, while Saint-Honoré was probably built in the 17th century.

Historic traces on the Tour de Sumiou

The Tour de Sumiou passes the remains of former hamlets in the municipality of Valbelle and reaches the exceptionally well-preserved calade at Pas des Portes. Here, traces of former settlements and a named historic stretch of trail take centre stage. This gives you a different focus when choosing a hike than the Saint-Pons loop: there, the circular route, walking time, and elevation gain provide a clear framework, while the Tour de Sumiou is characterised above all by its historic stops.

Climbing and the Montagne de Lure

The Valbelle climbing area is aimed at experienced climbers and is set in an unspoilt environment. It has 114 routes and 121 pitches. Both its target audience and the size of the area are clearly specified. Climbing is a distinct reason to visit, alongside the hikes and chapels: which activity takes priority during your stay depends on whether you are more interested in climbing, trails, or historic sites.

The Montagne de Lure also offers a way to explore the landscape around Valbelle: a winding road runs from the village through the forest to the summit. Road conditions can change; check them before you drive.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Saint-Vincent-Les-Forts, Saint-Martin-les-Eaux, Pierrerue, Saint-Laurent-Du-Verdon, Revest-des-Brousses, La Bréole, Quinson, Clamensane.

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