Les Mées
Last update on
Sep 16, 2026
Coming from the south : A51 highway, exit Les Mées-Peyruis, then take the N96 and the D4. Coming from Digne,take the N85 then the D4.
Discover the village of Les Mées and its famous Penitents
The village of Les Mées lies on the left bank of the Durance River, between Sisteron and Manosque. This village in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region has preserved traces of its history. Its stone and cobblestone houses cluster around the fountain. Three gates from the old ramparts still watch over the historic village.
Where to stay
Rising above the rooftops are the Pénitents, puddingstone cliffs about a hundred meters high. Legend has it that Saint Donat turned monks from Mount Lure to stone there. A hiking trail runs along their ridges, offering a view of the entire valley. Surrounding the town, 80,000 olive trees and several mills produce renowned olive oil. Follow the guide to explore Les Mées during your vacation in Provence.
The “Pénitents des Mées”
The village of Les Mées owes its fame to the narrow rock formations that rise more than 100 meters high above the town.
They are called the Penitents des Mées because of their silhouette; according to legend, they represent the monks of Montagne de Lure who were literally turned to stone by Saint Donat during the Saracen invasions for having fallen in love with beautiful young Moorish women whom a lord had brought back from a crusade.
The rocks do indeed resemble a procession of hooded monks with their pointed hoods—who, if one knows the legend, appear ashamed of their desires.
A charming village worth visiting
The village of Les Mées sits literally at the foot of the “Penitents,” lined up in tight rows. In medieval times, the town was enclosed by a rampart, of which a few gates still remain (St.-Christol Gate, Baudouine Gate, Bertrand de Bras Gate).
You can also catch a glimpse of the village’s original church (Saint-Roch Church), built on the foundations of a Roman monument. To admire the village from above, take a very pleasant walk along the “Toits des Pénitents” (starting from the campground on the D101).
The Olive Tree Trail
Les Mées is the town in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence with the largest number of olive trees. A trail has been specially marked out to view the most beautiful specimens.
Its olive oil is renowned for its quality and has won numerous awards and accolades. A must-try for connoisseurs!
What to see
The Pénitent rocks.
16th century Eglise Notre Dame de l'Olivier
Medieval arched doorways.
16th century gateway
Olive mills: Moulin des Pénitents and Moulin Arizzi.
Things to do
Hiking, mountain biking.
Swimming pool. Tennis. Horse-riding.
Cultural events during July and August.
Vacation rentals
A new 90-square-meter villa for four to six people in Les Mées, featuring a private pool, a pétanque court, and views of the famous Pénitents. Two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, and a barbecue in a very quiet residential neighborhood—a comfortable base for exploring the Durance Valley, Digne, and the Verdon Gorge.
Airbnb
Discover our selection of houses, villas and apartments on Airbnb for an authentic stay in this Provençal village. You will love your vacation here.
Your qquestions about the village of Les Mées
We’ve received several questions from you about this village in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions.
What are the best things to do in Les Mées?
Les Mées offers great activities for your vacation in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. The town's top attraction is the Pénitents trail, a natural site with spectacular scenery. The Olive Tree Path takes you through vast olive groves. Every viewpoint makes for a great photo. For more information, the official tourist office will point you toward the oil mills and guided tours of the village.
Where are the Pénitents des Mées?
The Pénitents rise right above the village of Les Mées, in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. This natural site stretches for more than a kilometer (0.6 mile) along the Durance River. On the map, you will find them between Sisteron and Manosque, visible from the A51 highway. You can explore the rocks on foot, starting from the center of the village. For information about your visit, stop by the tourist office.
What is the history of Les Mées?
The history of Les Mées dates back to the Neolithic period. In the Middle Ages, the old village was surrounded by ramparts, and three of its gates still stand. The Saint-Roch chapel sits on Roman foundations. The Notre-Dame de l'Olivier church, rebuilt after the Wars of Religion, completes this heritage. The official town hall website offers a great introduction to local history, with old photos and pictures.
How do I get to Les Mées?
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Les Mées. From the south, take the A51 highway, exit Les Mées-Peyruis, then follow the N96 and the D4. From Digne-les-Bains, take the N85, then the D4. Check the map to plan your route. A large parking lot awaits you at the entrance to the village.
Where to stay in Les Mées?
Accommodation in Les Mées remains small-scale. You will find a two-star campground, a basic nature campsite, and several vacation rentals. For a hotel, widen your search to the neighboring towns of the Durance Valley. Book early for summer vacations. For more information, contact the tourist office at +33 4 92 34 36 38.
What is the local food specialty of Les Mées?
Olive oil is the great culinary specialty of Les Mées. The town is the leading olive-growing town in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, with nearly 80,000 olive trees. Its oil carries the AOP "Huile de Haute-Provence" label. Several mills in the village are open to visitors and offer tastings, a perfect way to discover the local cuisine. For more information, contact the mills directly.
What events are coming up in Les Mées?
Les Mées hosts events throughout the year. To find out about upcoming events, check the tourist office calendar. The town hall website also shares local news. You can also contact the tourist information office. Its team will give you all the details on outings in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence.
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