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Les Sireniens: A Journey Back in Time

Discover 40-million-year-old sirenian fossils at this unique paleontological site near Castellane, France. A family-friendly hike with stunning views.

4.5

Explore a unique paleontological site near Castellane, France, where you can discover the fossilized remains of ancient marine mammals, the Sirenians, dating back 40 million years. This well-maintained site offers an easy hike suitable for families and showcases a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric marine life.

A brief summary to Les Sireniens

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, as the trail can be uneven in places.
  • Bring water, especially during warmer months, as there are no facilities on site.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions in the mountains can change quickly.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Maison Nature & Patrimoines in Castellane to learn more about the geology and natural history of the region.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If driving from Castellane, take the D955 towards Digne-les-Bains for approximately 8 kilometers. Look for signs indicating 'Col des Lèques' and 'Les Sireniens'. A parking area is available at the Col des Lèques. From there, follow the marked trail to the site. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    From Castellane, take the ZOU! bus line 450 towards Digne-les-Bains and get off at the Col des Lèques stop. Check the bus schedule in advance as services may be limited. From the bus stop, follow the signs for Les Sireniens; it's a short walk to the trailhead. A single bus fare is approximately €3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Castellane, and can take you to Col des Lèques. The ride is approximately 8km and will take about 15 minutes. Expect to pay between €30-€40 for a one-way trip. Companies like Uber also operate in Castellane.

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Discover more about Les Sireniens

Les Sireniens, located north of Castellane in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, is a remarkable paleontological site where visitors can admire numerous sirenian bone fossils. These fossils are the preserved remains of marine mammals that lived in this area approximately 40 million years ago, when the region was covered by a warm sea. The site is considered one of the most prestigious within the Haute-Provence Geological Nature Reserve. The Sirenians were herbivorous marine mammals, ancestors of today's dugongs and manatees. The Castellane site is exceptional due to the number, age, and quality of conservation of these fossils. Over 200 fossil bones have been discovered, including ribs, vertebrae, skulls, and limb bones. These findings have provided valuable insights into the evolution and transformations of these ancient creatures. The area has been carefully redeveloped to protect the fossils and welcome visitors. A parking area is available at the Col des Lèques, from which a marked trail leads to the site. The hike is relatively easy, making it suitable for families and casual hikers. Along the way, explanatory panels provide information about the geological context and the history of the Sirenians. The trail crosses meadows and a pine forest before arriving at the fossil site. The discovery of sirenian fossils at an altitude of 1000 meters reveals a key moment in the history of the Alps. The collision of continental blocks around 35 million years ago caused the marine sediments to rise, creating the alpine reliefs we see today.

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