Saint Michel l'Observatoire
Departement of the Alpes de Haute Provence - Pop.: 1,200 inh.
2 Km from the N100 which links Apt (20km) to Forcalquier (7km).
It is said that this village is one of the most beautiful in the Forcalquier area, and that it speaks to the stars... Once you'll have been there you'll understand...
Under the sun and the pure skies of Provence, Saint Michel l'Observatoire has been chosen as a strategic astronomy observatory.
In the village itself, walk up the principal street to the la place de la Fontaine and take a look at the beautiful XVII° century façades.
En route you'll pass by the Saint Pierre church (XIV° - XV° century ) and on the left you'll reach the doorway of the Saint Michel church (XII°- XVI° century ) which is worth a detour to appreciate its original architecture and superb terrace.
From here admire the views across the pays de Forcalquier, the Montagne de Lure and the Luberon chain.
Come back via a charming path which snakes between the terraced gardens (restanques) planted with olive trees.
St Michel l'Observatoire is surrounded by the sumptuous landscapes of the Luberon Regional Park... lavender fields, green hills and aromatic herbs provide the backdrop for this picturesque village in the s Alpes de Haute Provence.
By taking to the paths in the surrounding countryside, discover the ancient chapels, shrines and beautiful restored farms.
At Lincel, a small hamlet to the south of St Michel l'Observatoire, there is a château with wonderful grounds of centuries old cedar trees which ring the summit of the little village.
What to see:
Church XII° and XIII°. Leisure activities:
Hiking. Mountain biking.Astronomy, observatory : open all year to the public on Wednesday afternoons.
Fête 24, 28, 29 and 30 June.
Accommodation:
Hôtel.Bed and breakfast.
Holiday rentals.
Neighbouring towns and villages:
Aubenas les Alpes ( 5km), Dauphin ( 8km), Mane ( 7km), Revest les Brousses (9km). |
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