The Sainte-Baume forest : a botanical
and spiritual site of high interest
The forest through which your guide leads you during this hike is unique in France. Located on the shady northern slope of the Sainte-Baume mountains near Marseille, this magnificent natural area is home to yew. Under a Mediterranean climate, at such a low altitude (below 1,000 meters), the Sainte-Baume forest is exceptional from a botanical view point; firstly, we can find there quite unexpected species of trees: beech, maple and yew; secondly the age and size of hundreds of these trees are impressive. The spiritual importance of this forest probably explains this second feature: as a place of worship, first under Celtic religion, then under Catholic beliefs, this nature gem has been protected by populations for millenia.
Walking time : 3 hours
Rating : moderate
Season calendar : year-round (summer : morning only).