Castellane(France) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Castellane, the top ski-in/ski-out option is Hotel Le Mont Blanc, located directly adjacent to the Préry-de-Mol ski area. Guests can access the slopes via private pathways from the hotel’s entrance, and the property offers on-site ski rental, heated boot warmers, and a rooftop hot tub with panoramic mountain views. The building features traditional Savoie wooden architecture, blending rustic charm with modern comfort. Nearby, the Casteran Ski Lifts connect to over 20 km of groomed runs, making it ideal for skiers of all levels seeking convenience and alpine authenticity.

For first-time visitors, the town center of Castellane is the optimal district to stay. It’s within walking distance of Saint-Martin Church, the Place du Marché, and numerous local cafés and artisan shops. Accommodations like Maison des Alpes offer cozy, family-run rooms with authentic French breakfasts and warm hospitality. The area enjoys quiet evenings with starlit skies and mountain silhouettes, perfect for travelers seeking cultural immersion and peaceful retreats. Plus, it's just a 10-minute drive to the ski lifts.

In Castellane, immerse yourself in the annual Savoyard Festival held every August, featuring traditional shepherd dances, handcraft markets, and live folk music. Visitors can wear local chamois leather aprons and join the lively Bourrée dance. Don’t miss the Fromagerie de la Vallée, where you can tour a heritage cheese-making workshop and taste freshly produced Reblochon cheese—a hallmark of Alpine cuisine. These experiences offer genuine insight into the region’s rural traditions and sustainable food culture.

Summer hikers should explore the GR 51 Ridge Trail, a scenic route starting in Castellane and winding through alpine meadows and pine forests toward the Préry-de-Mol viewpoint. Along the way, spot wild Alpine ibex and rock doves, and stop at rustic mountain huts for homemade bread and warming soups. The trail takes about 6 hours and is suitable for intermediate hikers. Start early to avoid afternoon storms, and follow clearly marked signs with emergency contact points along the path.

Les Chalets du Soleil stands out as Castellane’s most family-oriented hotel, offering a dedicated kids’ activity room, mini-ski lessons, and family suites with cribs. Outside, children can splash in the natural stream or join forest treasure hunts organized by staff. The restaurant serves allergy-friendly children’s meals, and daily bilingual (French/English) guided tours help kids learn about Alpine wildlife and history. Located near the town center, it ensures safety and ease of access for parents.

Must-try dishes in Castellane include Fondue Savoyarde—a rich blend of Reblochon and Abondance cheeses served with toasted bread—and Tartiflette, a hearty dish of potatoes, bacon, and onions baked to perfection. At local eateries like Le Bistrot du Val, enjoy house-made Alpine cider with notes of apple and floral sweetness. All ingredients are sourced from nearby farms and orchards, reflecting the region’s commitment to farm-to-table sustainability and authentic Alpine flavors.

Castellane’s Fête des Lumières de Carêts takes place annually in mid-December and lasts three days. The event transforms the village into a glowing wonderland, with thousands of handmade lanterns illuminating houses and the Saint-Martin Church facade. Highlights include projection shows depicting Alpine legends, night-time sleigh rides, and a hot mulled wine market. Families can join lantern-making workshops, and limited-edition glow lamps are distributed. This celebration showcases both artistic creativity and community spirit in the heart of winter.

The L'Île d'Or public bus system connects Castellane to Grenoble and Saint-Hilaire-de-la-Croix with multiple daily departures (approx. 45 min). Free shuttle buses run within the town center to key spots like the ski lift base, market square, and visitor center. For hikers, weekend special tourist buses serve remote areas such as GR 51 and Préry-de-Mol. HopeGoo multi-day passes online grants discounts across zones and allows bicycle transport.

Photographers should visit Préry-de-Mol Plateau at sunrise for ethereal mist rising over snowfields, creating dramatic contrasts with golden light. The Saint-Martin Church with its Gothic spires and white stone walls makes a striking subject against snowy backdrops. In the evening, capture the warm glow of old town alleyways lit by vintage lanterns. For wildlife shots, head to the alpine wetlands near the forest edge, where red kites and golden eagles soar above the treetops—perfect for long-lens photography in pristine natural settings.

While Castellane lacks large thermal spas, the La Chavanne Spa Centre (12 km away) offers authentic Alpine wellness treatments. Signature therapies include ice-and-heat contrast baths and lavender oil massages, designed to relieve muscle fatigue after skiing. The facility features spruce wood steam rooms and herbal clay wraps using locally harvested alpine plants. Book the Mountain Wellness Package, which includes dinner, to enjoy a serene evening surrounded by mountain vistas—a true retreat for body and mind.