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Les Sireniens, Verdon Gorge Travel Guide

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Explore ancient marine mammal fossils in a stunning natural setting at Les Sireniens, Castellane. A unique geological adventure for all ages.

Discover the ancient marine life of the Verdon region at Les Sireniens in Castellane, where you can explore the fossilized remains of sirenians (sea cows) that lived over 35 million years ago. This unique paleontological site offers well-marked trails and informative displays amidst stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal outing for families and nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Les Sireniens

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Les Sireniens.

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Bring water, especially during warmer months.
  • Follow GPS directions carefully to avoid private property.
  • Check local weather conditions before your visit, as trails can be affected by rain.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Col des Lèques parking area (7 km from Castellane on the Digne road), follow the marked trail along the campsite. The easy, round-trip hike to the Sireniens site takes approximately 1.5 hours, traversing meadows and pine forests. Be sure to stay on the marked path, avoiding any left turns, and cross the footbridge to reach the valley of the Sirens. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    From Nice or Digne-les-Bains, take a regional bus (LER 51) to Castellane. From the Place Marcel Sauvaire in Castellane, take the D4085 road towards the Col des Lèques. From there, follow the walking directions. A single bus fare from Nice to Castellane is approximately €6. There are no local buses that go directly to Les Sireniens, so walking from Castellane is not feasible.

  • Car

    From Castellane, drive 7 km north on the D4085 towards Digne-les-Bains. After passing the 'Camping Les Sirènes', turn right into the parking area at the Col des Lèques. From there, follow the walking directions. Parking is free. Be aware that the road to Castellane from Nice (via the A8 autoroute and D6085) or Marseille (via the A51 motorway and N85) offers scenic but twisty routes.

Discover more about Les Sireniens

Les Sireniens, nestled in the picturesque region of Castellane, is a remarkable heritage site dedicated to preserving the fossils of ancient marine mammals, specifically sirenians, the ancestors of modern dugongs and manatees. Around 40 million years ago, this area was covered by a warm sea, home to these peaceful creatures. Today, visitors can explore a unique paleontological site featuring hundreds of fossilized bones.The site showcases a key moment in the history of the Alps, marked by the collision of continental blocks approximately 35 million years ago. The fossils found here provide valuable insights into the evolution and transformations of these marine mammals. The well-marked trails, including a scenic 2-kilometer path, wind through lush woodlands and meadows, offering breathtaking views of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region. Informative panels enhance the experience, detailing the geological history and the significance of the fossils.Les Sireniens is not just about fossils; it's an opportunity to connect with nature and appreciate the delicate balance of ecosystems. The moderate difficulty of the trails makes it accessible for both seasoned hikers and beginners. The site is located near the Col des Lèques, about 7 kilometers from Castellane, and includes features such as a footbridge and viewpoints overlooking the surrounding mountains and valleys.

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