Crestet walks

A beautiful walk through the woods below Saint-Maurice to the start of the Saint-Amand ridge. Moderator's addition on 13 March 2021: GPS useful for this hike, see reviews.

A walk that takes you through woodland and along the ridges of Saint-Amand, offering 360° views of Provence, the Dentelles de Montmirail and the Drôme Provençale. The route is easy on narrow paths. Shaped like a figure of 8, it can be shortened for those who do not wish to walk the full 16 km. Equally enjoyable in summer and winter, it alternates between woodland and breathtaking views.

A very beautiful hike, strangely little known, offering sumptuous views of the Ventoux massif and the Dentelles de Montmirail.

This is a very beautiful hike that will allow you to admire the Vaisonnais region as far as Montélimar to the north, the Dentelles de Montmirail and Saint-Amand to the south. And also, the giant Ventoux, ever-present.

A circular route offering a comprehensive overview of Vaison-la-Romaine through the ages, passing through one of the seven hills that surround it. The Gallo-Roman site of La Villasse, forest tracks, superb views stretching to the Dentelles de Montmirail, Mont Ventoux and the Drôme Provençale, the Roman bridge and the medieval town, not to mention a return via the main shopping street in the lower town, with the chance to stop for a bite to eat or a drink in the large central square.

A very pretty hike in the southern hills above Vaison-La-Romaine. Alternating between small paths, forest roads, footpaths and even the bed of a dry river, the route will take you to a very large drystone shelter in perfect condition, an outdoor charcoal kiln and a very old chapel. Sheltered from the mistral wind, this hike is as pleasant in winter as it is in summer.

Located north-west of Mont Ventoux, in the Ouvèze plain, the village of Entrechaux is dominated by its castle, perched on top of a hill. Let's climb this hill! The view from the castle is extraordinary, and it's no coincidence!

This beautiful hike will take you to the heights of Arfuyen, offering a 360° view of Provence and the Drôme Provençale. Then, through the undergrowth, you will reach La Pousterle and the foot of Saint-Amand. In the distance, you will see Le Barroux and its majestic castle.

A beautiful hike that alternates between pleasant woodland and panoramic views that are emblematic of the region. Don't forget your binoculars!

A fairly challenging hike starting from Séguret and heading to Notre-Dame d'Aubusson via Le Mourchon. Oak woods, vineyards, the scents of the garrigue and panoramic views are all on the itinerary. This route alternates between tarmac roads and marked or unmarked footpaths. It is recommended that you follow it using the Visorando app.

A short day hike that will allow you to appreciate the village of Séguret and its surroundings. A beautiful walk through the woods and vineyards.

Walk under the pine and holm oak trees in the hills above Saint-Romain-en-Viennois. There are some lovely views of Mont Ventoux along the way. Between paths and forest roads, this often shaded walk is most pleasant.

A pleasant, easy hike. Climb up to the castle (superb view) via the botanical trail, then descend along the ramparts towards the llamas, who will be very curious to see you. You will enjoy the forest, which is very pleasant in summer. Return via the very pretty village of Séguret.

A large circular route around Séguret passing through Le Crestet, skirting Vaison-la-Romaine and returning to the starting point.

A tour of the countryside around Séguret to discover the Vallon de Prébayon and the ruins of its monastery, then the Notre-Dame d'Aubusson chapel.

A beautiful circuit that starts in Malaucène, at the foot of the Ventoux, and takes you around the magnificent Château du Barroux.

Starting from Sainte-Madeleine Abbey at Barroux, this is quite a wild route offering many views over Mont Ventoux, the Dentelles de Montmirail and the surrounding plains.

A beautiful circuit which, starting from the Malaucène paper mill, takes you up to the Chapelle de Piaud and then on to the combes of Grand Barbeirol, Brame Fam and Comentige. Finally, you reach a disused gypsum quarry, the spring and Notre Dame du Groseau.

A beautiful walk, accessible to everyone, between two Benedictine abbeys: Notre-Dame de l'Annonciation and Sainte-Madeleine, with a passage next to the old 19th-century aqueduct that supplied water to Le Barroux. Pretty landscapes: vineyards, olive trees, views of the Dentelles de Montmirail, Saint-Amand, Château du Barroux and Mont Ventoux.

The hike first passes over the Clairier ridges, where you can see, amid the scrub and scree, the traces of the ancient oppidum overgrown with vegetation. It then continues along the Gippières ridges with beautiful views of the Dentelles de Montmirail, Saint Amand, Le Barroux, and the Notre-Dame-de-l'Annonciation and Sainte Madeleine abbeys. It passes by the ruins of a curious 19th-century aqueduct with circular arches that supplied Le Barroux with water.

Here is a hike that climbs up to the Mont-Saint-Amand wayside shrine. This route offers spectacular views of the Dentelles de Montmirail and a 360° panorama of all the surrounding mountain ranges. The final section of the route follows a narrow, rather steep path, but the effort is rewarded with a ‘wow’ factor on arrival.

This circuit allows you to discover the ridges of Saint-Amand and enjoy a 360° view of the Rhône Valley, the Drôme, Mont Ventoux, the Monts de Vaucluse, the Alpilles and, of course, the Dentelles de Montmirail.

A short route offering the chance to discover these two distinctive rock formations, as well as the Chapel of Saint-Christophe which watches over the site, all via less conventional paths.Fire hazards and hunting: risk of a fine! Make sure you check the local regulations in the practical information section.

Discover an interesting heritage with chapels scattered throughout the mountains and the many hamlets that make up Beaumont-du-Ventoux. Not to mention the ancient Roman quarry.

A tour of the north-western foothills of Mont Ventoux to discover three chapels and the Groseau spring.

This circuit takes you to two peaks nestled behind Mont Ventoux, as well as Roman quarries that were used to supply building materials for Vaison-la-Romaine.

Alternative ascent of Mont Ventoux via the Sommet de la Plate and the Col de Comte. Then cross the ridges from east to west via the Rochers de Cachillan. This route has many poorly marked sections.

A hike through the vineyards offering beautiful panoramic views: the Baronnies, Mont Ventoux, the Saint-Amand ridge, the Dentelles de Montmirail and the Comtat plain. This route follows tarmac roads (which make it easier for winegrowers to access their vineyards). In this region, during periods of drought, access to forest trails may be prohibited. In this case, this hike remains accessible.

Gigondas is renowned for its vineyards and lace.There are climbing routes for enthusiasts of this sport. The tour of the lace-like rock formations offers a view of the immensity of the vineyards from above.

An easy loop for exploring the Dentelles. The Dentelles de Montmirail: this is a mountain range forming thefirst foothills of the Alps in the Rhône valley. It includes the Clapis range, the Grand Montmirail, the Dentelles Sarrasines, the Crête de la Salle, the Crête de Cayron and the Crête Saint-Amand. This loop trail takes you through the heart of the three main ranges, along wide tracks and paths through the woods. There are numerous viewpoints, including the Rocher du Midi viewpoint.

Following the paths that wind through the rows of vines, this tour takes you to the foot of the rocky bars of the Dentelles de Montmirail, finely chiselled against the Provencal sky, with Mont Ventoux as a backdrop. Risk of fire and hunting: risk of fine! See the practical information section for details of local regulations.

A promising little tour of the Dentelles de Montmirail, without too much difficulty. After an initial climb, the rest is relatively easy. After several comments, I would like to point out that this is a hike, not a short family walk suitable for all ages. It is steep and rocky, and you are at the summit. Otherwise, stay on the DFCI trail below and climb only to the Rocher du Midi.

An ideal half-day hike to discover the Dentelles de Montmirail, starting from the village of Lafare. There are no markings on this hike, so you will need to make good use of a map and GPS. Fire and hunting risks: risk of fines! Make sure you are familiar with the local regulations in the practical information section.

The route passes successively through two peaks near La Roque-Alric to reach Le Barroux, then returns via Le Devès. It mainly consists of paths through the woods, some of which are steep, but unfortunately there is a section of tarmac road after Le Barroux.

This circular route allows you to climb and cross the entire Crête Saint-Amand, then the Crêtes d'Arfuyen and Crêtes des Gippières. Panoramic views of the Dentelles de Montmirail, Mont Ventoux and Barroux throughout the route. Fire hazard and hunting: risk of fines! Make sure you are familiar with the local regulations in the practical information section.

This is a long hike that takes you around the entire massif. The ascent of the Crête Saint-Amand, crossings of the Grande Montagne (or Grand Travers chain), the Dentelles Sarrasines (south then north faces), the Grand Montmirail and the Clapis are all on the programme. The Chambre du Turc and the Belvédère du Rocher du Midi are also included. Fire hazard and hunting: risk of fines! Make sure you are familiar with the local regulations in the practical information section.

A challenging hike along ridges and through woods. Magnificent views of the Dentelles mountains, Mont Ventoux and the Rhône plain. Fire and hunting risks: risk of fines! Find out about local regulations in the practical information section.

A sensational hike offering sublime panoramic views at the Dentelles Sarrasines. This hike is a variation of the above, allowing you to bypass the Dentelles Sarrasines via their southern face. Caution: do not undertake this hike the day after rain or in strong winds.

The first part of this circular route involves a challenging climb, but you will be rewarded with an extraordinary site, caves to explore and superb views over the Ouvèze valley. The second part, which is easier, allows you to visit two picturesque villages and walk along the Ouvèze, with the spectacular Baumes des Eyguiers caves towering overhead like sentinels.

A hike for everyone. You will find typical Mediterranean vegetation, protected flora and fauna. Equip yourself with good walking shoes and water. Respect nature and the silence (take your rubbish with you). Making fires, picking flowers and wild camping are strictly prohibited. Only follow the waymarking colours mentioned in the description.

A fairly long route, without any major difficulty, following marked and fairly wide paths. Nevertheless, it is nearly 20 km long with a significant elevation gain. The first section is shaded and exposed to the mistral. Some paths in Suzette are tarmac-surfaced, but the alternatives cross private land or areas with rather noisy dogs.

A loop accessible via wide paths for walking close to the Dentelles without being an experienced hiker. A moderate, steady climb will be rewarded with exceptional panoramic views of both the Rhône valley and a hilly landscape with terraced vineyards, magnified by the sharp outline of the limestone Dentelles. The silhouette of Mont Ventoux, the star of the Haut Vaucluse, can be seen in the distance to the west.

Magnificent panoramic views, immersion in the Dentelles and discovery of the Clapis mountain range via a route with no particular difficulty. The route follows forest tracks and paths, often in the shade of pine and oak trees. The return via the upper part of the village provides an opportunity to discover the remains of some interesting fortifications.

A challenging circular route with nothing insurmountable. A little courage on the climb and caution on the descent will be rewarded with superb panoramic views from the Dentelles de Montmirail to Mont Ventoux and over the Rhône valley to the Alpilles. The pretty village of Le Barroux is photogenic from every angle and a visit to the château after the hike is highly recommended to round off the day in style.

Please note: much of the route is on tarmac. This minor drawback is more than compensated for by the magnificent views of Ventoux, Le Barroux and the Dentelles de Montmirail. You can picnic next to the Abbey of Notre-Dame-de l'Annonciation.

A short walk between two neighbouring chapels, one in the valley near a small hamlet and the other perched on a rocky outcrop.

A beautiful walk among the pine trees and wild olive trees around Lac du Paty. Moderator's warning on 06/04/2021: GPS or Visorando app useful for this hike; see comments at the bottom of this page

A loop through vineyards and olive groves that allows you to visit two magnificent villages in the Vaucluse.

Not far from Vaison-La-Romaine, the upper reaches of the village of Buisson offer a balcony route for most of this itinerary. On minor roads, forest tracks and paths, between vineyards and undergrowth, walkers can admire the Aygues valley, the Lance mountain and those of the Baronnies provençales, the distinctive skyline drawn by Mont Ventoux, the Saint Amand ridge and the Dentelles de Montmirail, while in the foreground, crops and hedges offer a lush bocage landscape.

This is a half-day hike offering a variety of paths, both in terms of their nature and their exposure. Crossing some of the less frequented undergrowth can lead to surprising encounters (eagles, wild boars, etc.).

In the mountains of the Baronnies, imagine a lost hamlet inhabited by giants... Skeletons with very long shins were found in the crypt of the chapel. They are the source of the name of the locality.

A very beautiful loop off the beaten track that allows you to climb a peak and ridges on the western side of Mont Ventoux via some very pleasant and fairly wild passages offering beautiful views!

Circular route around the western part of Mont Ventoux with an ascent via Combe Obscure, Combe du Grand Barbeirol and Combe Brame-Fam, then descend towards Tête du Gros Charme and its unobstructed views.

A lovely walk through the undergrowth and apricot and almond orchards, with beautiful views of the Ollon valley and Mont Ventoux.

A hike through vineyards and the pretty villages of Buisson and Villedieu, along the Eygues Valley. You can also admire the Notre-Dame d'Argelier chapel in this lush natural setting. An easy hike suitable for the whole family in all seasons.

Pleasant 11 km circular route through the forest and vineyards, offering exceptional panoramic views and the pretty village of Cairanne.

A pleasant circular walk with magnificent views of the Pre-Alps and the Rhône Valley.

A beautiful hike through vineyards and pine forests. Beautiful panoramic views and numerous passages through the undergrowth. Well-marked route (from the hut).

A lovely walk at the foot of the old village of Mérindol-les-Oliviers, in the undergrowth, on a charming path winding between the hills of Benivay-Ollon with breathtaking views of the Drôme Provençale mountains.

This hike takes you from the recently opened bar-restaurant "Le Belvédère" to the hilltop village of Crillon-le-Brave. While the first part is not particularly difficult, the return journey involves a long, sometimes quite steep climb along the Torrent de Pié Blanc. Only the descent to Crillon is marked with red and yellow signs. After that, don't hesitate to use a GPS or the Visorando app.

This easy route, along pleasant forest tracks, a few footpaths and quiet roads, offers remarkable views over the Carpentras plain, the Rhône Valley and as far as the Alpilles to the south, the Dentelles de Montmirail to the north-west and Mont Ventoux to the east. This route also takes you up to the summit of the unusual Rocher de Rocalinaud, an ancient underwater dune shaped by erosion and human activity, where you can explore a beautiful cave. Caution: take care on this rock, as it may be slippery in places.

A long walk along the ridge between Piegon and Benivay, with magnificent views of the Ollon valley and the legendary Mont Ventoux through fields of pomegranate and almond trees. Stop off at Saint-Michel Chapel, which is well worth a look. Return via the hamlet of Les Géants.

Mont Ventoux Halfway along the road leading from Malaucène to the summit, this hike near protected areas offers extensive views of the northern and southern slopes of Mont Ventoux.

A very beautiful hike in the Baronnies Provençales Regional Nature Park, which will take you from Saint-Maurice-sur-Eygues to Vinsobres. Beautiful panoramic views and local flora and fauna.

This is a fairly easy walk to the Combe des Amoureux and then on to the plateau of the Rasteau massif before descending to the village of Saint-Roman-de-Malegarde.

Here is a route of moderate difficulty that circles the former spa resort of Montmirail, a small hamlet outside the village of Vacqueyras, but within the municipality of Gigondas.The aim is to use, as far as possible, little-used and therefore unmarked paths in an area that can be very busy at weekends and in summer.A short trip off the beaten track, best avoided during wild boar hunts, which are common in autumn and winter. 

This walk links three villages famous for their Côtes du Rhône wines. It follows a section ofthe GRP® des Dentelles de Montmirail and passes two chapels: Notre-Dame d'Aubune and the Saint-Hilaire Chapel on the Courens plateau.

Discover the Dentelles de Montmirail and the villages nestled at their feet: Beaumes-de-Venise, Lafare, La Roque-Alric.Fire risk and hunting: risk of fines! Make sure you are well informed about local regulations in the practical information section.

A circular walk, starting from Beaumes-de-Venise, around the hill against which the village is nestled, offering an interesting journey into the past.You will discover Notre-Dame d’Aubune (12th century), its spring and its incredible bell tower, the Grottes d’Ambrosi (former millstone quarries), the Courens oppidum where the remains of a 5th-century necropolis are still visible, the Chapelle Saint-Hilaire (7th–12th centuries), the ruins of the feudal castle overlooking the baumes (caves inhabited since prehistoric times, which gave the town its name). Not to mention the superb panoramic views over the Comtat Venaissin plain to the south, the Dentelles de Montmirail to the north, and Mont Ventoux further to the east.

A circular to discover one of the curiosities of Beaumes-de-Venise.

This is a beautiful hike in the hills above Beaumes-de-Venise, where you will discover not only the magnificent landscapes of the Dentelles de Montmirail but also an interesting historical heritage.

Beaumes-de-Venise, near the Dentelles and discover the Rocher de Rocalinaud.

A family hike offering beautiful caves on the way up and a stunning view of the Comtat Venaissin on the way down.

This circular walk starts from Vacqueyras and ascends to the Dentelles Sarrasines through fields of vines to Col, d'Alsau. From here a steep path leads up to the foot of the crags and follows the climber's path to the gap next to Rocher du Turk. From here the path descends on the other side of the crag and drops to the valley to pick up tracks and paths back to Vacqueyras via more fields of vines and woods. This walk is quite shaded in many places which makes it an option even in July or August. (In summer check for fire risk see practical information.)

Cette randonnée utilise le GRP® des Dentelles de Montmirail, entre Beaumes-de-Venise et le Barroux puis propose un retour passant par le pittoresque village de la Roque-Alric. Son itinéraire est assez simple et toujours balisé.

Take the time to discover Vacqueyras in a different way! The winegrowers and merchants of Vacqueyras invite you to explore their beautiful landscapes between vineyards and heath. This footpath will guide you through vineyards and rural paths to the Garrigues plateau and back to the starting point in the centre of the village of Vacqueyras.

A moderately difficult, well-shaded circular route from the Ventoux vineyards to the Malaucène National Forest, with views of the Dentelles de Montmirail and the Bédoin ochre quarry. The hike was modified at the end of May 2021 to avoid crossing private property.

One of the possible hikes on the southern slope of Mont Ventoux. A beautiful climb through the forest leads to Jas de Piè Gros, with magnificent views of the valley before descending via the Combe de Malaval.

A short, easy hike starting from Bédoin. A long walk under the pine trees amid the old ochre quarries, revealing shades of red, orange and yellow.

Bédoin - Mont Ventoux is a legendary stage of the Tour de France cycling race. This hike provides more direct access to the summit, via paths that follow the ridges and valleys of the mountain's southern slope. At the beginning, the paths run through pretty woodland, which is magnificent in autumn. Towards the end, the paths cross the rocky landscape of light-coloured stones at the summit of the mountain. Along the way, you will come across "jas", mountain sheepfolds built from dry stone walls.

A lovely, pleasant walk in the Baronnies under the holm oaks, with magnificent views of Mont Ventoux and the surrounding peaks. The Saint-Jean d'Ollon Chapel is well worth a visit.