The resplendent beauty of the Lure mountains under a blanket of snow
Starting from a mini ski resort located a 1.5-hour drive from Aix en Provence, on the southern slide of Montagne de Lure peaking at 1,826 meters (6,000 feet), this walking route takes you through a mixed forest of beech and fir, up to the ridge. On your way, you will surely identify imprints left in the snow by hares, wildboars or deers. Once arrived on top, the landscape opens up onto the valley on the other side and onto a large number of snow-capped Alpine mountains, including the 4,000 meters high summits of the Ecrins, on the horizon. And, on a lucky day, you will spot a chamois, this goat-like animal living in alpine meadows.
Walking time : 2.5 hours
Rating : from moderate to challenging (depending on the consistency of the snow)
The east ridge of Mont Ventoux from Chalet Reynard
During this full day snowshoe hike, starting from Chalet Reynard (1,400 meters) on the south slope of Mont Ventoux, you reach the ridge after one hour. Following it up in the direction of the antenna located on top of the mountain, you undoubtedly enjoy breathtaking views all around during the next two hours. Regarding vegetation, you come upon some pines at the beginning, but after a kilometer on the ridgeline, you catch only sight of scarce dwarf junipers. A really unforgettable experience !
Walking time : 6 hours (out-and-back)
Rating : challenging