I used to treat this area not as a destination in itself, but as a stopover on the way to something higher and more impressive. Of course this is a mistake, in a two-hour drive we are already in the French Alps surrounded by rivers, lakes, and jagged peaks. So here are my recommendations…
Canyon Verdon: It is recommended to spend a whole day if not two, camping, kayaking, pedal boating. For good walkers there is a great (non-circular) route inside the canyon – for good walkers only.
For good walkers – inside the guts of Verdon 
Verdon for everybody
Sisteron: The perfect stopover. A must visit to Sisteron Castle with a view of the “rock” and the Durance River, which divides Upper Provence in two. For dessert, a yummy crepe in one of the restaurants.
Barcelonette: A beautiful town in the heart of the Alps with all the amenities. Perfect place to stay. It notes a worthy Mexican restaurant (!) in the main square and this is no small feat – not in France and certainly not in the Alps.
Pra Loup Ski Resort: Near Barcelonette, delivers the goods and avoids having to drive many hours to higher ski stations, especially for beginners and children.
Ubaye River Valley: A perfect place to camp with all the facilities on the banks of the river, picnic tables, lots of shade, and BBQ stands. Worthy rafting is also available.
Lake Serre-Poncon: An artificial lake with turquoise water created by the construction of a dam. We like to make a stop, go down to one of the beaches for a nap or a picnic.
Dramatic Sisteron over the Durance 
A lone church. There was a village here before the dam. 
Via Ferrata 
Lake Serre-Poncon 
Camping in the Ubaye River Valley
