La Bigue

La Bigue is a 1,653-metre summit rising above the commune of Thoard in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, right in the heart of the Préalpes de Digne, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. It forms part of the Siron massif and ranks among the well-known hiking destinations near Digne-les-Bains, prized for one of the widest panoramas in this part of the southern French Alps.

What does the trail to the summit look like?

Most hikers set out from the village of Thoard itself. The first stretch of the walk crosses open scrubland before the path enters a shaded beech forest on the northern flank of the Siron massif. From there the trail climbs steadily toward the ridge, following the waymarks of a long-distance GR route (white-and-red markers) and, higher up, stone cairns that guide walkers across terrain with no clearly defined path.

The ascent involves roughly 700 metres of elevation gain. A full loop that climbs to the summit and returns by a different route covers about 22 kilometres and takes around 7 hours, which places it firmly in the "difficult" category, suited to hikers with solid stamina. For those wanting an even longer day out, the itinerary can be extended into a loop that also takes in the neighbouring summits of Guéride (1,495 m), la Collerette (1,436 m) and la Blache (1,401 m).

What can you see from the top?

Despite a telecommunications antenna standing on the summit, La Bigue is valued chiefly for its view. From the ridge, the panorama sweeps across nearly the entire horizon. To the west lies the Duyes valley, overlooked by the Montagne de Lure. To the east stretch the valleys of the Bès and the Bléone, dominated by the Trois-Évêchés massif. Looking south, on a clear day, the view extends across the whole of Provence as far as the Mediterranean coastline. Other Préalpes peaks visible from the ridge include Géruen, les Monges, les Cloches de Barles, le Couard and le Cheval Blanc.

Is there anything worth a short detour along the way?

Hikers heading to La Bigue can make a short detour to the Chapelle Saint-Joseph, a modest site with historical significance tied to the French Resistance during the Second World War. It's a brief stop, but one that adds some local history to the walk for those interested in the region's wartime past.

Who is this route suited for?

The ridge itself, despite its modest altitude by Alpine standards, is generally considered a moderate route within the lower alpine belt, following a crest line between the Durance valley and the Duyes valley. The extended loop that adds the neighbouring summits, however, is physically demanding and better suited to hikers used to long, full-day mountain outings.

Frequently asked questions

How high is La Bigue? The summit stands at 1,653 metres above sea level.

Where is the best starting point for the hike? Most hikers begin from the village of Thoard, in the commune of the same name.

How long does the hike take? Depending on the chosen route and the hiker's pace, the full loop takes around 7 hours.

Is the trail difficult? The climb involves about 700 metres of elevation gain, and the full loop is rated as difficult, so good physical condition and some hiking experience are recommended.

What can you see from the summit? The panorama takes in the Duyes valley, the Montagne de Lure, the Bès and Bléone valleys with the Trois-Évêchés massif, and, in clear weather, the Mediterranean coastline.