Bras d'Asse
From Digne via the RN 85, then via the D907 (15km).
Discover the pretty village of Bras d'Asse in Alpes de Haute Provence
Nestled in a vast cultivated plain, the charming village of Bras d'Asse (situated, as its name suggests, on a branch of the river Asse) is a peaceful, typical Provencal village, with its central bar and boules pitch, its small church shaded by plane trees, and its scattered houses adorned with flower gardens.
Bras d'Asse le Vieux
Even more astonishing are the ruins overlooking the village: this is the original village, still flanked by towers and cracked walls, now known as “Bras d'Asse le Vieux”.
The story goes that the village was destroyed by order of Louis XII, the local baron having made common cause with the Huguenots during the Wars of Religion that ravaged Provence. The subsequent exodus of the old village is recounted by Provencal novelist Maria Borelly in “Le dernier feu”, adapted for the screen by Jean Dasque.
You'll be delighted to stroll through this perched village with its Provencal alleyways. And enjoy the panoramic views over the whole region.
Local specialties
Don't leave Bras d'Asse without sampling the local mead or nougat, watching the boulistes challenge each other or enjoying a refreshing drink on the café terrace!
Hiking around Bras d'Asse
Hiking is the village's flagship tourist activity: several signposted trails leave from the village center and take you through the surrounding hills, offering breathtaking views over the Asse valley. A stroll to the old ruins perched on the heights will immerse you in the local history.
Lavender fields
In the right season (June-July), you'll be able to admire superb lavender fields in bloom all around Bras d'Asse. It's a great opportunity to take photos and visit a farm to learn all about growing, distilling and marketing lavender.
The river Asse
The river Asse is the natural artery that has shaped the landscape around Bras d'Asse for centuries. Sometimes peaceful, sometimes impetuous, the river winds its way through the valley before joining the Durance.
In summer, you'll love the cool, shady banks where you can enjoy a picnic. The bridge spanning the river not far from the village is well worth a visit.
What to see
Ruins of the old village ("Bras d'Asse le Vieux")
Leisure activities
Hiking.
Fishing.
In the spring, theatre activities.
Bed and breakfast
A magical B&B, welcoming, clean and exotic. Superb pool and garden. Peaceful setting. Friendly hosts and excellent breakfast. You'll have a wonderful stay!
Accomodations
Hotels.
Holiday rentals.
B&Bs.
Your questions about the commune of Bras d'Asse
After writing this guide to Bras d'Asse, you sent us a few questions by e-mail. Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions.
How do I get to Bras-d'Asse?
From Digne-les-Bains, take the departmental road towards Mézel, then follow the signs to Bras d'Asse - a journey of around 25 minutes. If you're coming from further afield, program your GPS to the address of Bras town hall, which will serve as a central reference point. The village can also be reached from Estoublon or Puimoisson via secondary roads that will take you through some magnificent scenery. The Route du Pont is a picturesque access route, particularly appreciated for its panoramic views over the Asse valley.
If you're a cycling enthusiast, there are several well-marked cycle routes from the surrounding villages to Bras d'Asse, offering a particularly pleasant alternative in fine weather.
NEIGHBOURING TOWNS AND VILLAGES
La Bégude Blanche (1km), Saint Julien d'Asse (3km), Mézel (5 km) and Estoublon (5 km).