Esparron-de-Verdon is a charming little village in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Located in the heights, at the entrance of the lower gorges of Verdon, the town is near Digne-les-Bains.
Crossed by the hiking trail, GR4, the commune of Esparron-de-Verdon is mainly known for its natural heritage, and more particularly its lake in which are reflected calanques and forests. Site frequented since the Palaeolithic era, the village was for a long time under the yoke of the abbots of Lérins and lords of Provence.
In the old center of Esparron-de-Verdon, a historical heritage allows to appreciate several monuments inscribed or classified and constructed during the Middle Ages. The mixture of old stones and greenery gives to the town a special and appreciated charm of the visitors.
The lake of Esparron-de-Verdon is the main tourist attraction of the village. Set at the foot of the town, it reveals a turquoise water surrounded by forests and other white creeks. The site offers several water activities for children and adults, such as sailing or swimming. It is also possible to discover the exceptional site of the low gorges of Verdon the time of canoe trips. Around, fields of lavender reveal their soft violet color, as well as their perfume.
Built by the Castellane family, the castle of Esparron-de-Verdon presents a square keep of the thirteenth century with vaulted floors in cradle. Classified to Historical Monuments, it also unveils six main buildings, one of the 15th century with a facade redone under Louis XIV.
In the Romanesque style, the Saint-André church underwent some modifications in the 17th century. Set on a rock, the campanile stands proudly. In the hamlet of Albiosc, the church of Saint-Pierre-ès-Links was enlarged in the 18th century. Inside, two objects were classified to the Historical Monuments, a clock of the middle of the sixteenth century, and an altarpiece representing the death of Saint Joseph.
Several chapels stand in the village, like that of Sainte-Madeleine or that of Sainte-Anne.
In the old village, picturesque houses bring a certain charm to the whole.
In network with the other museums of the gorges of Verdon, the ecomuseum of the Vie d'antan reveals to the visitors reconstructions of life in the countryside in the XIXe century.
The weekly market is held on Tuesdays and Fridays morning. Several garage sales are offered in the year. A Christmas market with flea market, local crafts or animations is organized in December.
Olivier's day, in April, includes a tapenade contest, a meal, and various entertainment.
In the summer, the lake hosts several sailing regattas.
At the beginning of August, Albiosc celebrates its communal feast with a ball and a meal.
As of August 15, the lavender festival of Esparron-de-Verdon allows to discover this fragrant flower, high symbol of Provence.
At the beginning of September, Esparron-de-Verdon organizes a costume banquet on the front of the multipurpose hall.
In October, a pumpkin festival offers entertainment for children, a farmers' market, a sculpture on squash, or guided walks.
