When we think of Digne-les-Bains and its surroundings, we often think of its magnificent landscapes, its sunny climate and its natural treasures. But for Kira Engle, this region is much more than a beautiful postcard. Originally from the United States, this climbing enthusiast decided to settle down in this corner of Haute Provence to practice and share her passion.
A passion for climbing born in the United States
The daughter of climbers, Kira grew up in an environment where climbing was part of her daily life. "I come from the United States and I am the daughter of two climbers. They made me climb when I was little but my passion was born later when I left home, I realized that it was a discipline that I really liked", she explains. Having lived in Belgium for three years during her childhood, she learned French and discovered the south of France during family holidays. “We lived in Belgium for 3 years when I was little, that's where I learned French and we visited the south of France, and I always knew I would come back.”
The favorite for Digne-les-Bains
In 2017, after applying as a language assistant in primary schools, Kira discovered the limestone of the Alps around Digne-les-Bains. “I fell in love with the region”, she remembers. To stay, she then passed her State Diploma in France and decided to settle down permanently.
Since I graduated, I have mainly practiced around Digne where I supervise groups for climbing initiation or accompany on Via Ferrata.
A paradise for climbers
Kira works throughout the region, from Digne to Verdon, and near Sisteron, where she teaches climbing at the Roc et Falaise club. "Around Digne we have a selection of beautiful cliffs that offer beginners to very experienced climbers. Here in Courbons for example (Digne les Bains) we have a hundred routes, from 3, beginner level, to 8a+ which is a very good level." The world-renowned Verdon is less than an hour away, making it a paradise for climbers of all levels.
As an instructor, Kira takes real pleasure in introducing young and old to climbing.
Digne-les-Bains, a region adopted for life
His attachment to the region is deep and sincere. "I wanted to stay here because I feel at home in Digne", she said. This statement speaks volumes about the special connection she has developed with this territory. As an ambassador for Digne-les-Bains and Haute Provence, Kira Engle perfectly embodies the sporty, adventurous and passionate spirit of this exceptional land. Through her career, she also illustrates the irresistible charm of Haute Provence, a destination that attracts not only nature lovers, but also those in search of natural beauty and self-improvement.
Ambassador of outdoor sports
With world-renowned climbing spots such as the Gorges du Verdon and local cliffs such as Saint Jean in Château Arnoux, Chabrières or Courbons, which offer challenges suitable for all levels, Digne-les-Bains and Haute Provence are establishing themselves as a destination of choice for outdoor sports enthusiasts. And with ambassadors such as Kira Engle, the destination has something to seduce all lovers of verticality.
So much to see...
Ambassadors
As with Kira, the Haute-Provence knew how to seduce personalities who today embody the authenticity of our territory. Discover these women and men who make up the image of Haute-Provence.
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