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Listed as an intangible cultural heritage site by UNESCO in 2020, the tradition of transhumance on foot still endures between Provence, the Gorges du Verdon and the Mercantour mountains, even if trucks have overtaken these joyful processions that pass through the villages “like a tide” wrote Jean Giono.
Sheep, rams, ewes, goats and grey donkeys move at 3km/h from June onwards towards the slopes rich in soft grass, which they love. Revendran* in October (they’ll be back)
You’ll have the chance to meet some beautiful Brunes des Alpes, cows of Swiss origin that owe their worldwide success to the quality of their milk. Don’t be mean, take the time to say hello!
Of the 550,000 sheep that summer in the PACA region, only 20,000 to 25,000 still do so “on their feet”.
The first communication routes between the plains of lower Provence and the Alpine mountains, they lead to the summer pastures or “Amountagna” in Provence. Amountagna is also the name of a hiking trail dotted with fun and educational panels on the theme of pastoralism.
Pastoralism has been practiced in the PACA region for almost 7,000 years, and transhumance is one of the region’s oldest traditions.
Pastoralism has a positive impact on the environment. By moving around, the animals ensure the propagation of seeds, thus contributing to biodiversity. As they are not stingy, they also maintain the land, keeping the meadow from being colonized by the forest.
Wool has been processed in the Verdon region since the Middle Ages. Industrialized in the 19th century, this activity left its mark on the region until the middle of the 20th century. Today, it remains the passion of certain producers, but above all it has bequeathed a priceless and little-known heritage. Discover it by following the woolen cloth factory trail at Saint-André-les-Alpes or the Verdon drapery trail.
In 1819, André Honnorat opened his factory in Saint-André-les-Alpes. It was the first of the 30 draperies to develop in the valley..
Taste the products of the alpine pastures, they are of a quality that borders on the exceptional, and it’s really worth it to eat local – in fact, how can you resist? Cow or sheep’s tomme, goat’s cheese, subtle blends with herbs…a delight for the palate.
ACTIVITIES IN VILLARS-COLMARS
Half-day or full-day walks in the Chasse valley from Villars-Colmars.
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