The Chapelle Saint-Michel stands on an island measuring just a few dozen square metres; when Lac de Serre-Ponçon was flooded, the water came within a few metres of it. This narrow margin connects a small building with the history of the lake. The parish church, Château de Prunières and the landscape also give the town a range of cultural and scenic features. When planning your visit, the chapel’s limited accessibility and the seasonal conditions for some activities are particularly important.
Chapelle Saint-Michel and its history
Chapelle Saint-Michel is closed to the public because the island is now a nesting site for gulls. When the water level is low, you can approach it by boat or on foot. The water level determines whether it is possible to approach by either of these routes; this does not include a visit inside the chapel.
The site also has an older history: in 1140, the Hospitaller Order of Jerusalem established a priory and a hospital at Chapelle Saint-Michel, intended to accommodate travellers. This gives the small building a historical context that extends beyond its location in the lake. The hospital’s purpose at the time is part of the site’s history.
Church and Château de Prunières
The parish church was formerly dedicated to Saint-Sauveur. It was probably partly rebuilt towards the end of the 15th century. Six stained-glass windows in the church were donated in 1902. The feast of Saint-Sauveur is celebrated on the first Sunday in August. The church thus brings together different periods: an earlier dedication, a presumed reconstruction, the donation of the windows and an annual celebration.
Château de Prunières is one of the last traces of the influence of noble families in the valley. It was burned down three times in its history: in 1580, 1692 and 1925. Events and restorations altered its architecture. This sequence makes the building’s history a way to explore the history of the town and the valley’s noble families.
Hamlets, forests and cycling tours
The hamlets of Prunières stretch from the Aiguilles de Chabrières to the former bed of the Durance. Above the Mediterranean-like grasslands are larch forests. The landscape thus displays a variety of features within a compact area, from the heights near the Aiguilles to the former river landscape. Those interested in the surroundings will find that this contrast offers a different perspective on Prunières from its buildings and their history.
Prunières’ quiet roads are ideal for cycling tours, offering views from Lac de Serre-Ponçon to the Aiguilles de Chabrières. On the water, you can go stand-up paddleboarding or canoeing in the small coves between Riou-Bourdoux and Baie Saint-Michel, away from the official beaches. Water conditions can vary by season; check them before setting out. These options offer different ways to explore the area: views along quiet roads and trips on the water.
Seasonal experiences and local tradition
From spring to autumn, hot-air balloon flights take off from Prunières at sunrise over Lac de Serre-Ponçon. The seasonal window and early start set this activity apart from a cycling tour or a trip to the coves. If a balloon flight is an important part of your plans, check the current departure arrangements before travelling.
In the hamlet of Les Gourres, the communal bread oven keeps alive the tradition of baking and breaking bread together at local festivals and events. This custom adds a communal aspect to the history of the buildings and landscape. It is tied to local festivals and events, making it distinct from the seasonal activities on the lake.
Discover more destinations: Vars, Puy-Saint-Pierre, Saint-Léger-Les-Mélèzes, Le Poët, La Roche-Des-Arnauds, Réotier, Chabestan, Ventavon.
For the overview of the wider region: Hautes-Alpes.
