Montfuron offers a variety of highlights for a stay: architectural history at the Église Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Elzéar, milling traditions at the Moulin Saint-Elzéar, and a nature theme at the Jardin des papillons de Montfuron. These discoveries are complemented by the Route Moulins de Montfuron, marked for short hikes. Those planning a stay can choose between culture, butterflies and exercise, while keeping the respective visiting conditions in mind.
Mill and Butterfly Garden
The Moulin Saint-Elzéar was built in 1640 under Louis XIV. The mill is still operational and can grind grain. It therefore combines a clearly dated history with a milling purpose that has been preserved to this day. As of May 24, 2023, a reservation was required for a guided tour. Before your trip, check whether a tour will be offered during your stay and how it is currently organized. You should also check the operating status and whether any milling demonstrations are available.
Near the windmill lies the Jardin des papillons de Montfuron, an open-air site set in a wild shrubland. It is dedicated to Provençal butterflies. More than sixty species of daytime butterflies and just as many nocturnal species are mentioned. The figures may vary depending on monitoring and seasonal conditions. The condition of the garden and visitor arrangements may also vary seasonally, so check in advance what to expect during your visit. The garden’s dedication and the separate figures for day- and night-flying butterflies give it a clearly defined nature focus.
Church, Bell Tower and Chapel
The Église Notre-Dame-et-Saint-Elzéar is a Romanesque church dating from the 13th century. Its bell tower dates from the 17th century. The church and tower therefore have different dates: the Romanesque building belongs to an earlier period, while the tower is later. For anyone interested in architectural history, this offers a concrete comparison within a single religious building, rather than assigning one date to both elements.
The Chapelle Saint Elzéar offers another historical point of reference. It has been protected as a historic monument by a decree dated July 9, 1981. This date refers to its protected status, not to when the chapel was built. Together with the Romanesque church and the later-dated bell tower, it creates a cultural theme with several historical points of reference: architectural style, construction date and monument status each represent different aspects.
A Short Hike as a Separate Option
The Route Moulins de Montfuron starts and ends at the car park at the entrance to Montfuron. Yellow PR trail markers identify it as a route for short hikes. Trail markings may change due to maintenance or local conditions, so check the current route before setting out. If the area is very busy, it is also advisable to check the parking situation locally.
Discover more destinations: Noyers-sur-Jabron, Castellane, Bellegarde, Saint-Étienne-Les-Orgues, L'Escale, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Céreste, Sainte-Croix-De-Verdon.
For the regional travel overview: Alpes-De-Haute-Provence.
