The Sainte-Baume forest : a botanical
and spiritual site of high interest
Come and discover this unique forest in France, located in the Sainte-Baume mountains near Marseille. Its shady north slope hosts a magnificent broadleaf forest where yew stands. From a botanical point of view, it is exceptional in Mediterranean conditions at such a low altitude (below 1,000 meters) for two reasons ; the first one is that can be found quite unexpected species of trees : beech, maple and yew; the second one is the impressive age and size of hundreds of them. The spiritual importance of this forest probably explains this second feature : as a place of worship, firstly under Celtic religion, then under Catholic beliefs, this forest has been protected by populations for millenia.
Walking time : 3 hours
Rating : moderate
Season calendar : year-round (summer : morning only).