Clamensane can be explored on two circular hikes of different lengths: the easy walk to the Aqueduc des Sagnières and the longer route to the Chapelle Saint-Amand, rated fairly difficult. The village sits on a rocky outcrop; the Sasse flows below, while Mount Saint-Amand rises above it. The higher Chapelle route offers views across the middle Sasse Valley and the narrow gorge at Bayons. When choosing an outing, you can weigh up walking time, scenery and destination.

Hikes with Different Time Requirements

The hike to the Aqueduc des Sagnières is an easy 6.2-kilometre circular walk. It is listed as taking three hours, with 241 metres of ascent and 234 metres of descent. This makes it the shorter of the two circular hikes described here. Route details may change, so check the latest route information before setting out.

The aqueduct itself is an old, two-arched structure made of tuff in the small Sagnières valley. The Vallon du Vermeil also has family-friendly hikes that pass by or cross the aqueduct. The structure is therefore both a destination in its own right and a landmark along these trails.

The signposted circular hike “La Chapelle Saint-Amand (N°5)” starts in Clamensane and leads to the chapel. It is 12.76 kilometres long, involves 773 metres of ascent, takes six hours and is rated fairly difficult. Compared with the aqueduct loop, that means roughly twice the distance and walking time, as well as considerably more ascent. Check access to the route before setting off.

The “Montée de Saint Amand” trail also starts in Clamensane. It follows a technically challenging, demanding climb to a high mountain pass. The hiking options therefore differ in more than just duration: the aqueduct loop leads to an old structure, the Chapelle loop combines the chapel with views across the Sasse Valley, and the trail climbs steeply to the pass.

Chapelle Saint-Amand: Pilgrimage and Legend

The Chapelle Saint-Amand has a long history as a pilgrimage site: pilgrimages took place from 1600 to 1920. Restoration and securing work on the chapel, commissioned by the municipality of Clamensane, began in July 1999; the restored building was blessed in October 2000. These dates place the chapel in a historical context that extends beyond its role as a hiking destination.

A local legend tells of a statue that a shepherd moved to another place, only for it to repeatedly return to its original location. The “Rocher-qui-Parle” also rises above the village. At a QR code, you can use your smartphone to listen to a fairy tale—a brief storytelling experience that differs from the longer hikes.

Getting There and Other Things to Look Out For

To reach the Chapelle Saint-Amand hike, travel from Sisteron on the D951, then take the D1 to Clamensane. There is a car park at the entrance to the village. As road conditions may change, check them before you set off.

Around Clamensane, you can look for chamois with binoculars; sightings are not guaranteed. Together with the distinctive rocky outcrop, the Sasse below the village and Saint-Amand towering above it, this makes for a varied landscape—from hiking trails and views from the heights to cultural destinations.

Discover more destinations: Villeneuve, Faucon-De-Barcelonnette, Méolans-Revel, Manosque, Ongles, Pra Loup, Selonnet, Brunet.

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