The Pierre du Costel links local and market history with local tradition. It once stood at the entrance to the grain market, where dues were paid. Known as the Pierre chaude, it is a green stone whose surface has been smoothed by the touch of hands; it is said to have special powers.

Churches, Chapels and the Château

The modern parish church of Saint-Thomas-Saint-Restitut stands in the centre of the present-day village. It was built from 1872 to 1874; both of the church’s bells were cast in 1874. This is distinct from the older parish church in the former village: it dates from the 12th century, was damaged in 1588 during the Wars of Religion, and was rebuilt in the 17th century.

The present-day Saint-Pierre Chapel was built in 1860 from stones taken from the earlier church, to preserve its memory. It serves as the burial place of the Ventavon family. These building histories show how different sacred buildings preserve their own historical periods and functions.

The Château de Jarjayes was built of stone after the earlier castle was destroyed in the early 17th century. It was inhabited by Francis Auguste Reynier, known as the Chevalier de Jarjayes. The central staircase with its wrought-iron railing, vaulted rooms and an old chapel bearing the Chevalier’s coat of arms have been preserved. The coat of arms depicts a crowned lion’s head and a snake biting its own tail.

The opening of the château’s monumental staircase to the public was inaugurated on 8 November 2025. If you would like to visit the staircase, check local access conditions in advance. On the Trois-Châteaux site, the old church has been partially restored and secured; it can once again welcome visitors, walkers and people interested in historic buildings. You should also check the applicable access conditions before visiting.

Meadows, Forests and Different Routes

Jarjayes overlooks the Durance Valley. The Circuit des Bournas passes through meadows between Jarjayes and Les Bournas, through dense forests and to numerous viewpoints over the Gapençais basin. Hikers who enjoy combining open countryside, forest and viewpoints will find this route has a clear focus. The village’s views of the Durance Valley and the route’s viewpoints over the Gapençais basin look out over different landscapes.

The Col de la Sentinelle is the access road from Gap to Jarjayes. In fine weather, especially during the warmer months, it is used mainly by cyclists. The two routes therefore differ in their purpose: the Col describes the access road from Gap and its use by cyclists, while the Circuit des Bournas is a scenic route through meadows and forest to viewpoints.

Discover Farming and Production

La Ferme du Col offers a 1.5-hour discovery tour led by the owners. It covers the raising of ostriches and Angora goats, as well as the production of flour and beer. The tour combines insights into animal husbandry with topics related to production and processing.

The visitor experience also includes educational and fun visits with animal feeding, bottle-feeding young animals and petting areas. Angora goats and ostriches are raised on the farm. Bookings, schedules and additional activities may change; check current visiting options before making plans.

Discover more destinations: La Grave, Freissinières, Rochebrune, Salérans, Rosans, Le Poët, La Piarre, Neffes.

For the broader travel overview: Hautes-Alpes.