In the heart of the Bès valley and the Haute-Provence Geological Nature Reserve, experience a geological adventure and discover one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Alpes de Haute-Provence.
Fascinating for geologists and hikers alike, the Vélodrome is one of the emblematic landscapes of the Haute-Provence Geopark. Highlighted by differences in vegetation, Cenozoic (Tertiary era) strata can be seen bending and straightening almost vertically. The red clay deposits are the oldest, reflecting accumulations in a broad alluvial plain (approx. 25 Ma). They are topped by several hundred meters of gray sandstone deposited when the sea returned to a shallow gulf bordered by already vigorous relief (15-20 Ma). All were deformed as they were deposited during Alpine tectonics. Particularly spectacular, the Facibelle blade emerges in a miracle of equilibrium highlighted by erosion.
Between Digne-les-Bains and Barles on the D900a, the path rises through red earth before leading to the abandoned village of Esclangon and its Art Refuge. After a final climb, you’ll reach this unique viewpoint, between heaven and earth.
