Camping River

When it’s time to head off into the wilds, this spot at the foot of the Vallon de Laverq has plenty of pursuits to pick from. Embark on explores of the area on foot or by bike – or raft, if that’s your preferred mode of transport – then set off to tour the trails of the Mercantour National Park. Overlooked by several peaks, the Ubaye Valley is a must for walkers and hikers wanting to explore the Alps. The site’s handily placed if you want to accept the challenge of the ‘Brevet des 7 Cols’ – climbing all seven of Ubaye’s cols – which is something only 400 people achieve each year. Not sure your legs are up to it? Bounce over to Barcelonnette, a historic Mexican-themed town, 20 minutes away instead or take off to the Fort de Tournoux (40 minutes) and Abbaye Notre-Dame de Boscodon (45 minutes) and admire the architecture. More culture’s to be had at the Musée Gassendi (an hour and a quarter), which displays oil paintings and sculptures, and thrills are in good supply at Plan d'Eau des Ferréols, a watersports lake around the same distance away.