Barret-sur-Méouge: Nature and Cultural Heritage

Barret-sur-Méouge brings together nature and history.

Scenery and Views

The Gorges de la Méouge begin in the municipality of Barret-sur-Méouge and lie in the Hautes-Alpes département between Châteauneuf-de-Chabre and Barret-sur-Méouge. The Réserve Naturelle Régionale des Baronnies orientales extends across four municipalities: Barret-sur-Méouge, Éourres, Salérans, and Val-Buëch-Méouge. It covers 970 hectares.

A specific viewpoint is the Belvédère du col Saint-Ange on the Route Crête de Chabre. From there, the view stretches across the Céans and Méouge valleys, to the Ecrins massif and Mount Saint-Genis. The extent of the view may vary depending on the weather.

Cycling Loop, Hiking Trail, and Climbing Area

The En balcon sur la Méouge à vélo (N°19) cycling loop is easy, 16.6 kilometres long, and takes two hours. The start and finish are at the inn in Barret-sur-Méouge. The GRP® Tour du val de Méouge begins and ends in the town centre. The two routes therefore offer different reference points: a cycling loop with a stated distance and duration, and a hiking trail with its start and finish in the town.

The Site d'escalade du Col Saint Ange climbing area is on the Crête de Chabre. The beginner crag has 25 routes graded from 4 to 5. The described approach from Barret-sur-Méouge follows the road to Barret-le-Haut and the Col de la Crousette; from the pass, it is a 45-minute walk. Road and trail conditions may change. Check them before setting out.

Historical Traces in the Town

The former 12th-century Eglise Saint-Laurent is now a ruin. It belonged to the Benedictine abbey of Saint-André-les-Avignon. Local people revered the church and regarded it as the first church built in this valley. Its local significance can therefore be seen both in its historical connection to the abbey and in the esteem in which it was traditionally held by the community.

The Cadran solaire de Barret-sur-Méouge is on the wall of the municipal school. The sundial bears the motto “Some will stay, others will choose the illusory path of leaving.” The schoolchildren depicted on it are considered a symbol of the village. The remains of the Chapel of the Penitents can also be seen on the heights above Barret-sur-Méouge.

Visiting the Gorges de la Méouge

When parking is limited in the Gorges de la Méouge, shuttle buses operate from Barret-sur-Méouge and Châteauneuf-de-Chabre. If you plan to take a shuttle during your visit, check the latest service information in advance. The gorges, the viewpoint, and the cultural landmarks offer different ways to tailor your stay to your interests.

Discover more destinations: Rochebrune, Réallon, Jarjayes, Guillestre, Réotier, Saint-Julien-En-Beauchêne, Puy-Sanières, Sigoyer

For the regional travel overview: Hautes-Alpes.