Through the foothills of Mont Sainte Victoire
This beautiful walk gets you first to the Roche Percée, a large rock with a big hole, and then, gradually leads you through olive groves and pines to the foot of Montagne Sainte Victoire, on its south west facing side, the one painted so many times by Cézanne. From the small mountain refuge, whose name was given after the painter’s one, you walk down with breathtaking views to the south. You will surely see many flowering plants along the way, that will contribute to make this walk a multi-colored and multi-scented pleasant trip.
Walking time : 4 hours
Rating : leisurely (stony ground)
The peaceful beauty of Porquerolles
To get an idea of the true riches of the three islands off the coast of Hyères, near Toulon, just remember that they are called Les Iles d’Or (the Golden Islands) : the unspoiled splendor of their seascapes is unique. Porquerolles, the closest to the continent, only a 10-minute boat ride away, nestles a charming tiny village. But, its treasure is the beauty of a craggy coast made of steep cliffs and secluded creeks, bathed in turquoise waters. And you reach those idyllic spots through the typical Mediterranean vegetation, whose blooming starts early March, walking paths where you encounter nobody ! Heaven on earth !
Walking time : from 3 to 5 hours
Rating : moderate (stony sections)
The history of the Vaudois in the
Luberon and the Gorges de Régalon
This hike offers you the opportunity of learning about the history of the Vaudois (or Waldenses) in the Luberon region in the 16th century. Beginning in Mérindol, a village by the Durance river, it takes you up to the stoney plateaus at the bottom of the Petit Luberon mountain. The final part is a descent through a narrow and spectacular canyon very special for its luxuriant vegetation : the Gorges de Régalon.
Walking time : 5 hours
Rating : moderate (stony ground)