Les Terres Noires: Digne-les-Bains

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A tour of the fabulous Terres Noires (Black Lands) out of Digne-les-Bains in the Val d'Allos Alps. Note that there are several mapped short cuts and alternate routes to make shorter rides to bail out from this big loop or to add more badlands riding.

You might also use a shuttle to Le Villard to save the 6.5-mile road approach, or finish by exiting via La Javie – Digne-les-Bains or Les Terres Noires: Les Dourbes Trail, instead of returning to Dignes at the end of the day.

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Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the southern Alps. Head to lower ground immediately if weather threatens.

The area has lots to do on rest days. There's a Via Ferrata above town, a cool fossil site, thermal baths, and the UNESCO Géoparc de Haute-Provence - Musée Promenade.

Km 2: take the little road on the left which gradually rises towards Le Villard.
Km 12: at an altitude of 1022-m, a path undulates towards Areste.
Km 13: in the heart of the Black Lands, the playground sharpens its edges in the Banastier. Be careful with the GPS track now, because on the ground there are several options; many reveal a committing way to let you pass at the last moment.
Km 16: tumble into the ravine of Areste. At altitude 768-m, you have to push a bit to climb up Serre Long.
Km 17: the ascent continues; a small path wearing you out until Bramefan.
Km 19: the track takes you up to Gouta.
Km 22: on the left, a small path leads to the cruel ramps of the Crouye. Change course at the Coteau de la Tour: the grip is good on these abrasive rocks.
Km 26: at the sheepfold of Maurel, an old track starts a small ascent to the top of the Latty wood. The Adret de l'Escure delights with very playful, hopping lines.
Km 33: complete this fabulous appetizer in the Black Lands at Mouirouès; the return to Digne is fast, likely driven by the rumbles of afternoon thunderstorms.