Oraison offers a range of starting points for a trip: historic architecture, routes through the countryside and water-based activities south of the town. The Chapelle Saint Pancrace dates from the 12th century, and the signposted Saint Pancrace walking route provides specific details about distance and duration. Water games and stand-up paddleboarding are seasonal additions to the offer. Which focus is right for you also depends on your travel plans and the time of year you have in mind.

Architecture, Fountains and Historic Sites

The Chapelle Saint Pancrace dates from the 12th century. The Église Notre Dame du Thor combines 15th- and 16th-century Gothic architecture with Romanesque round-arch elements. Another landmark in the town’s history is the Oraison music kiosk: it was built in spring 1926 in place of the former fountain and ceremonially inaugurated by the Oraison brass band. Different periods and architectural styles therefore offer distinct themes to explore.

The water supply is also part of the town’s history. The Source de la Boucharde has been in use since the early Middle Ages and supplies Oraison’s nine fountains and three washhouses. The walking tour “Les Fontaines et les Lavoirs d’Oraison” (The Fountains and Washhouses of Oraison) features fountains and washhouses in its very title. The Pont de la Durance offers another connection to water: the freely accessible bridge has seven arches and is 285 metres long in total. It is best viewed from the Hippodrome.

The ruins of Villevieille are freely accessible. From the tourist information office, follow Rue Elie Louis Julien, Rue Auguste Brun and Rue Rosé Banon to reach them. The “Le Patrimoine Oraisonnais” (Oraison Heritage) walking tour also starts at the tourist information office. For another perspective on the ruins, the Bois de Saint-Martin route passes them on its way back to the starting point.

Hiking and Walking Routes

The signposted Saint Pancrace circular route is 4 kilometres long, has 180 metres of elevation gain and is of moderate difficulty. It is listed as taking 1 hour and 30 minutes. The distance, elevation gain, difficulty rating and estimated time give you several specific points of reference when planning the walk into your day.

The Bois de Saint-Martin route follows a different course: it runs along a canal past olive groves, crosses the Bois de Saint-Martin and returns to the starting point via the ruins of Villevieille. If you prefer a cultural theme, the “Le Patrimoine Oraisonnais” (Oraison Heritage) walking tour offers another starting point; it begins at the tourist information office.

Water Activities South of Oraison

The Lacs des Buissonnades lie south of Oraison. The site consists of a swimming lake, a stocked fishing lake and a reservoir. Water games and stand-up paddleboard rentals are seasonal activities. If these activities are a key reason for your trip, confirm they are available before setting off. That way, you can plan your travel dates around them rather than assuming the seasonal activities are available all year round.

Almond Traditions and Visits

Perl’Amande has upheld an almond tradition in Haute-Provence dating back to 1920. The local Pointue d’Oraison almond variety once enjoyed a certain reputation at the market—a historical distinction that connects the town’s name with its almond tradition. Guided tours of Perl’Amande are available by reservation through the Oraison tourist information office. Reservation arrangements and visiting hours may change, so confirm the details before your visit.

The tourist information office provides local tourist information as well as tickets and booking options for activities, guided tours, concerts, performances, guided hikes and transport. If you wish to use any of these services, check the latest service details in advance.

Discover more destinations: Simiane-La-Rotonde, Forcalquier, La Bréole, La Motte-Du-Caire, Beynes, Manosque, Bevons, Aiglun.

For the broader travel overview: Alpes-De-Haute-Provence.