Pic De Couard

Pic de Couard rises to 1,988 metres in the Préalpes de Digne, within the commune of Tartonne, in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department of southern France. Although maps and guidebooks record it as "Couard," locals refer to the peak simply as "Couar" — the original name that was gradually altered over time.

Where exactly is this peak located?

Pic de Couard sits at the northern end of a long limestone ridge running south to north for nearly seventeen kilometres. This rocky crest forms a clear landscape boundary between the Asse valley and the Bléone valley. The nearest villages serving as starting points for the trails leading to the summit are Tartonne and neighbouring Archail.

What can you see from the summit?

The top offers a sweeping panorama over both the Asse and Bléone valleys, as well as the Cheval Blanc massif. The view also extends toward Digne-les-Bains, an area known for its distinctive "terres noires" (black earth) formations — dark, shale-like slopes typical of this part of the Préalpes. The ridge trail leading to Pic de Couard is considered especially scenic precisely because of this multi-directional panorama.

What is the route to the top like?

Reaching Pic de Couard is most commonly done along the ridge, which makes it possible to combine this summit with nearby peaks such as the Sommet de Cluchemet or the Sommet du Cucuyon. Routes start from both Tartonne and Archail, varying in length and elevation gain depending on the chosen itinerary. The terrain — an extensive limestone ridge — makes the crest walk long, but it does not require climbing skills, only stamina and good orientation in mountain terrain.

Why visit Pic de Couard?

Pic de Couard appeals to hikers looking for quieter trails in the Haute-Provence Alps, away from the region's more crowded, better-known summits. The Tartonne and Archail area has kept its intimate, rural character, and the ridge trails here are valued above all for their open, far-reaching views stretching as far as Digne-les-Bains.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Pic de Couard? The summit reaches an elevation of 1,988 metres above sea level.

Where is the best place to start the hike? The villages of Tartonne and Archail, both located at the foot of the massif, are the most commonly used starting points.

Is "Couard" the correct name? It is the spelling fixed in maps and guidebooks, but locally the peak is known as "Couar" — the original name that was slightly altered over time.

What views does the summit offer? A panorama over the Asse and Bléone valleys, the Cheval Blanc massif, and the area around Digne-les-Bains with its characteristic "terres noires" formations.

Is the route technically difficult? No climbing equipment is needed — it is a long ridge hiking trail whose main challenge is distance and elevation gain rather than technical difficulty.

Can the ascent be combined with other summits? Yes, the ridge also allows access to the Sommet de Cluchemet and the Sommet du Cucuyon as part of a longer outing.