Malijai

Discover Malijai, a small village full of charm and history

We take you to Malijai, a village where history and nature meet at every turn. This small village, nestled on the right bank of the Bléone River, is a true haven of peace. Strategically located between Sisteron and Digne, it is an essential stopover for anyone traveling through the region.

During our visits, we were charmed by the 18th-century castle, which welcomed Napoleon on his return from Elba. This place steeped in history particularly impressed us. The castle now houses the town hall, and on the ground floor, you can admire Louis XVI-style plasterwork. Trust us, if you love architecture, this place is not to be missed!

And for a nice break under the plane trees, the castle's French-style park is the perfect place to relax. A quick game of boules and the afternoon will fly by!

Must-sees in Malijai

• The 18th-century castle: This majestic castle is a must-see in the town, and even if you're not passionate about history, it's well worth a visit. The town hall and the gypseries on display there gave us a fascinating glimpse into the region's past. If you like classical architecture, you'll love it!

• The French garden: Imagine a beautiful summer's day, under the plane trees in the garden, playing pétanque or simply enjoying the peace and quiet. For us, it's the ideal place to recharge your batteries after a morning of exploring.

• Saint-Christophe Parish Church: Although rebuilt in 1839, the church retains a certain charm. We were particularly impressed by the stained glass windows and the fresco in the choir. If you like quiet places steeped in history, this church is well worth a visit.

• The hamlet of Chénerilles: Located about 5 km from Malijai, this abandoned village is a real favorite of mine. It's a bit like traveling back in time to discover a forgotten village, while enjoying magnificent views of the mountains and the valley. Don't forget your camera!

Leisure and activities in Malijai

If you enjoy hiking, you've come to the right place! The area around Malijai is full of beautiful trails. The village trails offer splendid views of the Bléone Valley. We particularly recommend the Bastidon trail, which leads to the Belvédère de Mayreste. Trust us, the view of the canyon is breathtaking!

If you're more of a sports enthusiast, you'll love the mountain biking. We tried out a trail around the village of Chénerilles ourselves, and it was absolutely incredible. You climb, you descend, the scenery is superb, and as a bonus, you get a good dose of adrenaline.

Finally, don't miss the December farmers' market, an excellent opportunity to discover local products such as goat cheese, truffles, and homemade pastries. It's the perfect opportunity to taste the real Provence.