Nestled at the foot of the majestic Bure mountain, the village of La Roche des Arnauds is much more than just a stop on the road between Gap and Veynes. For hiking enthusiasts, mountain bikers, or simply history buffs, the circuit blending the Gap canal and remains of the castle offers a rare immersion into the region's feudal past, all wrapped in a setting of alpine greenery.

  Between the silvery murmur of the canal and the silence of the old stones of the castle, time stands still to give way to the magic of the mountaintops. 

An Ascent into the Past: The Castle of the Lords of Fleet

The central element that dominates the landscape is undoubtedly the silhouette of the “Rock”. It is here that the ruins of the medieval castle, formerly a stronghold of the powerful Flotte family. Erected in the 12th century, this castle was not only a lordly residence, but a strategic point monitoring the passage between Provence and Dauphiné.

Today, although the structure is in ruins, the site exudes a unique atmosphere. Thanks to the passionate work of the local association “La Roche de demain” (The Rock of Tomorrow), archaeological excavations and consolidation work are providing a better understanding of the fortress's layout. The base of the main tower and the foundations of what was once an impregnable stronghold are still visible. Climbing to the top of the rock offers an immediate reward: a 360-degree panoramic view on the Dévoluy massif and the Petit Buëch valley.

The Murmur of Water: The Legacy of the Gap Canal

Leaving the steep heights of the castle, the route invites you into a completely different atmosphere: that of freshness and calm along the Gap canalThis masterpiece of hydraulic engineering, built in the 19th century to irrigate the Gap plain, winds its way up the hillside.

Following the canal towpath is like taking a stroll suspended in mid-air. The path is flat, shaded, and particularly accessible. It's here that you truly understand the vital importance of water in this mountainous region. The contrast is striking between the arid rock of the castle and the lush vegetation lining the canal. For photographers, the reflections of the surrounding peaks in the canal's calm waters offer spectacular shots, especially in autumn when the larches and deciduous trees are ablaze with gold.

The Mountain Bike and Hiking Trail: A Fitness Trail

For the more athletic among you, Circuit No. 35 (Blue) is the absolute reference for discovering this area. 16 kilometers long with a moderate positive elevation gain of around 300 meters, it is perfectly suited to active families or cyclists looking for varied landscapes.

1. The Departure: It usually takes place in the center of the village, near the school.
2. The Corréo Plateau: The trail climbs gently towards this high plateau, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks.
3. The Technical Descent: For mountain bikers, a few more technical sections in the undergrowth allow them to test their agility before reaching the peaceful banks of the canal.

Why choose this walk?

La Roche-des-Arnauds has succeeded in its challenge of reconciling green tourism and cultural tourismUnlike the sometimes intimidating high mountain trails, the route around the canal and the castle remains manageable. It's a route that can be enjoyed in any season.

• In spring, for the flowering of the orchards in the valley.
• In summer, for the constant coolness provided by the canal water and the shade of the pine forests.
• In autumn, for striking color contrasts.

Practical Information for Your Walk

• access: About 2 kilometers from the campsite The Sérigons Park. 
• By car : Around 4 to 5 minutes via the Chemin des Sérigons and the D994.
• By bike : Around 7 to 10 minutes, an ideal route to warm up before starting mountain bike circuit no. 35.
• Walk : Around 25 to 30 minutes by following the paths or the local road.
• Equipment: Good walking shoes are recommended for the climb to the castle, as the terrain can be stony.
• Respect for the site: The castle is a fragile historical site. Visitors are asked to stay on the marked paths so as not to damage the ongoing excavations.

In conclusion, the tour around the canal and the Château de La Roche-des-Arnauds is a true ode to the heritage of the Hautes-Alpes region. Whether you are fascinated by ancient stones or simply seeking a moment of serenity by the water, this route will charm you with its authenticity and diverse landscapes.

Recommended tools for digital drawing

To view the exact route in real time on your phone, you can use:

• Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur Tourism: La Official circuit sheet no. 35 often offers an interactive map.
• Outdooractive or Visorando: Search for “Circuit n°35 La Roche-des-Arnauds” to obtain the GPX file.
• IGN: Use the map Top25 3337 OT (Dévoluy) for maximum topographic accuracy.