La Javie lies at the confluence of the Arigeol and Bléone rivers. The village is characterised by several picturesque old lanes with steps; churches, chapels and a historic washhouse offer tangible clues to its history. Hiking also offers a range of experiences: the Transhumance Route, a challenging circular trail and views of distinctive peaks.
Village History Between Church and Chapel
The Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste was rebuilt in 1822. It is still consecrated, and Mass is held there regularly. If you plan to attend a service, check the current schedule beforehand.
The Chapelle Notre-Dame is a mountain chapel with an attractive little bell tower. From there, the views extend across the valley, La Javie and the orchards. A Way of the Cross with ceramic paintings leads to the chapel; the path and its artistically decorated stations are part of the visit to the building.
La Javie’s historic heritage also includes the Lavoir de La Javie. It can be visited free of charge every day throughout the year. Check access conditions before your visit.
Everyday History and Geological Traces
The Ecomusée La Javie presents eight themed exhibitions on life in the village and the Haute Bléone in the past. Visits are by appointment. The exhibits include, among other things, a classroom, a grocery shop and a kitchen, as well as a shoemaker’s workshop and a tin caster’s workshop. The selection spans learning and provisions, cooking and crafts, offering several ways to explore everyday life in the past.
A different kind of history is preserved at Les empreintes de pas d'oiseaux: its geological traces date back 20 million years and are interpreted as bird footprints. A hiking trail through the site links it to nearby Lame de Facibelle and Sanctuaire de Roche Rousse, a contemporary artistic creation by Hermann de Vries. Along this trail, geological heritage and a work of modern art meet.
Hikes with Different Highlights
The GR 69 La Routo long-distance trail passes through La Javie as a stage on the Transhumance Route. The village is therefore part of a long-distance hiking route centred on traditional transhumance. Check trail conditions before setting out.
The Hameaux du Blayeul hike also starts in La Javie. It is described as a very difficult 16.6-kilometre circular route with 744 metres of ascent. The route passes abandoned hamlets and houses, as well as a ruined mill and a ruined bridge. These details give a clear indication of the route’s length and difficulty; check the latest route information and conditions before setting out.
The Tour des Blaches is all about views of the Massif de l'Estrop, Pic de Couard and Cheval Blanc. Comparing the options gives you different points of reference: La Routo passes through La Javie as a transhumance stage, the Hameaux du Blayeul hike is described by its circular route, distance and ascent, and the Tour des Blaches is characterised by its viewpoints.
Sarteau Pears and Events Throughout the Year
La Javie is associated with the Sarteau pear, a small pear used for preserving. It belongs to a geographically limited area centred on La Javie. The Foire aux tardons agricultural fair is dedicated to sheep and takes place every year in September. The Foire de la Poire Sarteau and other old varieties of fruit takes place on the first weekend of November. If you plan your trip around one of these events, confirm the dates for the year in question.
Discover more destinations: Cruis, Castellane, Châteauneuf-Val-Saint-Donat, Simiane-La-Rotonde, Redortiers, Curbans, Barcelonnette, Digne-Les-Bains.
For the broader travel overview: Alpes-De-Haute-Provence.
