Sainte-Colombe between forest and ridge

Sainte-Colombe can be explored through its landscape, various trails and a special detail at the church. The village lies on a rocky spur at the foot of the ridges of Montagne de Chabre and is not visible from the road. The Forêt de Beynaves also shapes the area: most of it lies within the commune of Sainte-Colombe, and part of it in Orpierre. Hiking trails lead through the forest and to the ridge; a sundial adds a distinctive cultural touch.

A village on a rocky spur, a forest spanning two communes

The location of the village and the extent of the Forêt de Beynaves are two distinct geographical reference points. Sainte-Colombe lies at the foot of the Chabre ridges, while the forest extends beyond the commune boundary into Orpierre. When exploring the area, you can keep these places distinct when planning: the name Sainte-Colombe does not refer to the entire Forêt de Beynaves.

The forest is classified as an Espace Naturel Sensible (Sensitive Natural Area); its ecological importance is recognized through its ZNIEFF designation. The nature of the Forêt de Beynaves is therefore a central feature of the landscape. Sainte-Colombe is also a starting point for hikes on foot and mountain bike rides.

Forest trails and different types of routes

The GR 946, which connects Serres with Sisteron, runs through the Forêt de Beynaves. Another option is the Sentier forestier de la Pineraie (No. 23): this 1,700-metre educational loop passes through the forest and offers insights into a protected natural area. It is accessible to wheelchair users and people with strollers. As a loop, its format differs from that of the GR 946, which passes through the forest.

The two trails thus offer different points of comparison when choosing: the Sentier de la Pineraie is described as short, circular and educational. The GR 946 is defined by its route through the Forêt de Beynaves and its connection between Serres and Sisteron. These details describe different scales without equating the trails.

Hikes to the Chabre ridge

Le Pas de Sainte-Colombe is a relatively easy hike that provides quick access to the Chabre ridge. It offers views of the Céans Valley and the village of Sainte-Colombe. From Beynaves, a trail just under 1.5 kilometres long leads to the ridge; from there, the panorama stretches from Mont Ventoux to the Écrins.

The destinations described offer different highlights: Le Pas combines views of the valley and village with access to the ridge. The trail from Beynaves is notable for its length and sweeping panorama. When choosing between these options, both the destination and the type of view are therefore relevant.

The Route des Princes d’Orange via Bégües

The Route des Princes d’Orange also passes through the commune: its route goes through the hamlet of Bégües. This 107-kilometre tourist route connects Orange with Orpierre, crossing landscapes in the Vaucluse, Drôme and Hautes-Alpes. Its scale is quite different from the trails around Beynaves and Chabre: it connects two points far apart, while the hiking trails described here lead into the forest and to the ridge.

An Occitan inscription at the church

The Cadran solaire de Sainte-Colombe sundial is on the church façade. Its Occitan inscription reads: “L'ora e la pes Santa Couroumba te baila”. Translated, it means: “May Sainte-Colombe grant you time and peace.” Here, the place name is linked to the two wishes of time and peace. Alongside the forest, trails and views, the inscription is a specific cultural detail of the village.

Discover more destinations: La Piarre, Aiguilles, Serres, Saint-André-de-Rosans, Saint-Blaise, Ceillac, Savournon, Embrun.

For the broader travel overview: Hautes-Alpes.