Banon, France
Banon is a charming village located in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department of southeastern France. Known for its picturesque beauty, Banon is surrounded by rolling hills, lavender fields, and olive groves, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The village is renowned for its production of Banon cheese, a traditional French cheese wrapped in chestnut leaves. Its medieval architecture, narrow streets, and the stunning Montagne de Lure in the backdrop add to the allure of this quaint Provençal town.
Parking in Banon
In practice, Lussan provides tourists with only one parking lot in the center (1; GPS: 44.03815558, 5.628334521), but there is also a fairly large parking area on the outskirts of the town (2; GPS: 44.04045117, 5.630334150). However, this one is reportedly designated for campers – we haven't verified whether it is possible (or allowed) to park a passenger car there. It's best to drive up yourself and check if there are any restrictions. If not, you have a large parking area at your disposal.
Exploring Banon
Welcome to picturesque Banon, a charming town nestled in the heart of Provence. Let’s begin our journey at the central square, where the Notre-Dame de l'Assomption church dominates (A; GPS: 44.03934374, 5.62806093). Take a moment here to admire its façade, a stunning example of Provençal sacred architecture. The interior is equally impressive, featuring beautiful stained-glass windows that shimmer in every color under the sunlight.
As we stroll through Banon’s charming streets, we cannot miss the Portail féodal (B; GPS: 44.038473882, 5.627333615), a medieval gate that once formed part of the town’s fortifications. Let’s take a closer look at its solid stone walls, which bear visible traces of history. This spot transports us back to a time when Banon was a fortified settlement, protected from invasions. The gate is one of the few surviving elements of the old defensive structures and serves as a testament to the town’s rich past. Passing through it, imagine how residents once greeted merchants and travelers here.
Heading downhill, let’s make our way to the local market (C; GPS: 44.03793784, 5.628314782). If we visit on a Tuesday, we’ll find a market where vendors offer local delicacies, including the famous Banon cheese, wrapped in chestnut leaves. Be sure to try it – it’s a flavor that perfectly captures the spirit of this region. We might also get a chance to see how the cheese is made, and perhaps even chat with producers eager to share stories about their craft.
Now let’s head to Librairie Le Bleuet (D; GPS: 44.03876761, 5.629261475), one of the largest bookstores you can find in small towns across France. Strolling between shelves full of books, you’ll experience the unique aroma of paper and ink, and the owners will surely share their recommendations. The bookstore is very well-stocked and highly diverse. It’s the perfect place to buy a souvenir from your trip. Nearby, there’s an excellent artisan ice cream shop – a great spot to browse through books before making a purchase.
To conclude our tour, let’s stop at one of the café terraces to enjoy a glass of local wine or a cup of coffee. Take one last look at this tranquil town – Banon is a place that enchants with its authenticity, quiet charm, and the hospitality of its residents. Thank you for joining us on this virtual walk, and we hope you’ll visit this delightful town!
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