Gréasque walks

This route, created by the Gréasque Mining Museum, takes you on a journey back in time to the mining era in Gréasque. You will pass by the mining remains that enabled the village to develop. The route is marked with permanent black markings on a white background and an explanatory guide is available at the museum.

A walk that starts in a woodland that feels more like a park. It has a few tarmac sections and is relatively shaded. It’s a lovely summer stroll along very easy-to-walk paths.

Hike in the Étoile massif with views of Sainte-Victoire Mountain, Ventoux, the Alps, and at the same time, Marseille and the Mediterranean.

A lovely short hike starting from Belcodène towards Les Michels. Panoramic views of Sainte-Victoire and the Étoile mountain range. Moderate elevation gain. The hike is accessible via the free bus network of the Pays d'Aubagne et de l'Étoile.

In the hills of Marseille, this beautiful hike leads to the Pilon du Roi, a solitary monolith that catches the eye from the plain and offers a splendid view of Marseille and the surrounding mountains. A long stretch along the ridge offering beautiful views, a small, shady and secluded valley, and a few almost forgotten paths are the main attractions of this physically demanding route, despite the overall elevation gain, which may seem insignificant.

A beautiful hike above Cadolive that will take you to the summit of Mont Julien, where you can enjoy magnificent panoramic views of Sainte-Victoire, the Alps and the bay of Marseille.

Panoramic route, not difficult but quite long, on foot or by mountain bike around the Montagne de Bau Trauqua. Views of the Aix and Gardanne region with Montagne Sainte-Victoire, then the picturesque villages of Mimet and Saint-Savournin, and finally a wide open view of the bay of Marseille, before heading north and approaching Notre-Dame des Anges.

This is a very beautiful, short hike with a good climb for a while, and plenty of excitement with almost constant panoramic views for more than half of the hike. There is an orientation table, benches along the ridge and beautiful single-track trails with a slightly difficult section on the mountainside, but with good footing.

It is a very beautiful hike with a few sections that are a bit tricky for those with sensitive feet and for those who are afraid of heights. It climbs at the start to reach the lookout point via the ridges of Bau Trauqua. It passes by the Tête du Grand Puech and has a circular route that takes it around the Pilon du Roi. Much of the route is exposed, offering stunning scenery, especially on a clear, sunny day.

A loop around the Bau Trauqua mountain, part of the Chaîne de l'Etoile between Marseille and Aix-En-Provence. Hike along the ridge and enjoy the many magnificent views over the well-known massifs of Sainte Victoire, Garlaban and Sainte-Baume. In spring, the scents are magnificent, not to mention the flora and fauna that awaken. This hike starts off moderately difficult, then becomes a medium hike with some very fine views.

This walk is not difficult as it is mostly on easy-to-walk, fairly wide tracks. It takes you through the heath with beautiful views of Sainte-Victoire and Sainte-Baume. Its highest point, Le Régagnas, offers a 360° view, which is perfect on clear days. You can picnic nearby and even see the foothills of the Alps if the weather permits.

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This lovely walk, winding from valley to valley, takes you from Peypin to the Col du Marseillais. Stunning views of Sainte-Victoire, as well as of Roquevaire and the Huveaune valley from the pass. Then the descent back down to the village of La Destrousse. - The walk is accessible at the start and finish via the free bus network of the Pays d’Aubagne et de l’Etoile (line 17).

Ascent towards Mont du Marseillais, then a walk along a ledge with beautiful views of Sainte Victoire, Mont Ventoux, the Southern Alps, Sainte-Baume, the Huveaune Valley, the Aubagne Plain, the cliffs of Cassis and Marseille. The route also includes a visit to the Baume Sourne Cave.

A lovely circular route above Gardanne. Most of the route is through wooded areas.

Starting from La Bouilladisse station, this hike climbs through oak and pine forests onto a vast plateau, then descends through gorges to the hamlet of Le Pigeonnier and then La Bouillladisse. The hike is accessible via the free public transport network of the Pays d'Aubagne et de l'Étoile. Line 5: La Bouilladisse station stop.

This hike around Peypin will allow you to discover the village, its history and its hills. You will walk along a stream, which is remarkable when in full flow with its small waterfall and pools, and follow paths through shady valleys. The hike ends with a tour of the village's narrow streets and a visit to the castle. If you wish, you can skip this last part (see (8) for things to do nearby).

This short but fairly challenging hike takes you along numerous small paths and immerses you in a fairly wild area. It also allows you to reach the famous Pilon, visible from all over the Aix region.

A pleasant short hike that takes you up a slag heap without any particular difficulty. You will find a few information panels along the way. The route is very well marked in blue.

A very short hike between Meyreuil and the Pont de Bayeux, through vineyards, pine and oak woods on a hill with very pleasant views of the Sainte-Victoire mountain.

A challenging hike to explore Mont du Marseillais via steep paths and wide tracks. Along the way: the ruins of La Bastidonne and its three wells; the bed of the Cride stream with its waterfalls and potholes; the wild Mau Vallon with its large limestone slabs; then a return via theGRP® Sentier Provence Mines d’Energies towards the hamlet of Pichauris, with numerous wells to discover and the ruins of La Plâtrières. A magnificent landscape throughout the route.

Wide DFCI tracks, pleasant footpaths and one of the Ratier’s narrow, densely wooded valleys feature on this easy circular walk starting from Pichauris and passing at the foot of Mont Julien. Set against a magnificent panorama, you’ll come across two wells, an old limestone quarry and a karstic cave along the way. (See also the practical information).

A pleasant route around the old hamlet of Pichauris and the Bastidonne estate. Beautiful tracks and paths through heath and kermes oak trees, passing numerous wells. Beautiful views of Mont Julien.

A walk in a regional park with beautiful trails, varied routes and trees, trees and more trees. Departure from the park’s car park at the Pichauris Hostel.

This hike starts from Pichauris and takes you through spectacular scenery: La Parloire, a large, steep cirque reminiscent of an ancient theatre, and Barre Coupée, a long rock formation that looks as if it has been carved with an axe and has only one point of passage.

A pleasant hike starting from the Parc de Pichauris along beautiful, well-maintained and signposted tracks and paths. A steep climb to reach the summit of Mont du Marseillais with a 360° view of the Chaine de l'Étoile and Marseille, Sainte Victoire and the snow-capped Pre-Alps, Sainte Baume and Garlaban. The route via the summit of Le Défens towards the Puits de l'Aroumi offers views of the Grand Vallon. The route also passes close to numerous wells.

A magnificent circular walk starting from Parc de Pichauris, taking in the Grand Vallon via the Sentier des Tourdres. The route then passes by the Aroumi well and Barre Coupée, offering fine views of Marseille, the Chaine de l’Etoile, the Sainte Victoire massif and the Pre-Alps, visible on a clear day. Finally, take a detour at the end of the walk to visit the ruins of Ners Castle.

A hike through the pines and scrubland of the Massif du Garlaban, so dear to Marcel Pagnol. Starting from the Pichauris car park, the circuit first leads you to the Puits de l'Aroumi (the wells of Aroumi) then the Mont du Marseillais along beautiful, well marked paths, often along ridges, offering magnificent views over Marseille, Sainte-Victoire, Mont Ventoux and, in good weather, the Préaples de Provence. The intense luminosity of the rocks under the brilliance of the sun will leave no-one indifferent.

A lovely, very easy family walk between Peynier and Les Michels, with an elevation gain of just 120 metres. You will pass an old miner's house, enjoy beautiful views of Sainte-Victoire and walk along an ancient Roman road, some of whose cobblestones remain.

Starting from the Micocouliers car park above Pichauris, this beautiful circular route around the Grands Ubacs will take you to the orientation table and beneath the antennas of Mont du Marseillais. You can discover the places where Yves Robert located Marcel Pagnol's holiday home in the film "La Gloire de mon Père" (My Father's Glory).

A circular route through ridges and valleys, mostly on well-maintained paths, towards the Collet du Ratier hill. Magnificent scenery throughout the route and old stone quarries to explore. 

The main attraction of this route is reaching the summit of Cride de Peypin hill via a path with no truly visible or existing tracks (see § Practical Information). At the top: a cross, the remains of an ancient Gallo-Roman oppidum and, above all, magnificent 360° views of the surrounding hills and villages. Starting from Pichauris, the route passes by the Cride stream and its large limestone potholes and, on the return journey, through a picturesque valley extending from Mau Vallon to reach the hamlet of Le Régage.

An alternative route to the Grand Vallon other than via Lascours. This route starts from Pichauris, climbs up to Mont du Marseillais, follows the Sentier des Tourdes, then descends to the Pas du Grand Vallon. The ascent of the Grand Vallon is a classic route featuring the famous, highly technical section equipped with chains (see § practical information) before reaching the Col du Régage. The return to the hamlet of Pichauris follows theGRP®2013. Varied and magnificent scenery throughout the route. Please note: there are a few difficult sections; please read the route description carefully.

A circular route on either side of the Ratier valleys along beautiful DFCI tracks. Shortcuts through the valleys, heaths and forest allow you to shorten the route by bypassing many hairpin bends. They also lend a wild and challenging character to this route, right up to the ascent of Mont Julien (see also the practical information).

The circuit allows you to discover pretty secret valleys in the Grand Puech massif and magnificent panoramic views of Marseille, Cadolive and Sainte-Victoire.

A beautiful hike to Mont Julien and the Grotte des Fées with magnificent views of Marseille, Cadolive, Gardanne and the Sainte-Victoire Massif in the background. Return via the Figuière and Vache valleys.

This is a pleasant, easy hike on beautiful, clear tracks and paths, allowing you to discover the Aire de la Moure, a reddish plateau used for training civil defence water bombers, and then the Baou de l'Aigle cliff, a climbing site.

A challenging, long circular route starting from the Vallon de la Vache towards Mont Julien, the Grotte des Fées, the Tête du Grand Puech and the Aire de la Moure. A few DFCI tracks, plenty of steep, well-signposted paths offering a magnificent 360° panorama. As an added bonus, in the morning you can watch the civil defence aircraft training above the Aire de la Moure.

Another idea for a route to reach the magnificent site of La Parloire is to take beautiful trails with views of Marseille, the Chaîne de l'Étoile and the Montagne de Sainte-Victoire.

A lovely hike with a big climb up the ridge of the valley. Return via the Vallon de Fontvieille (as it is known), where the lush vegetation makes you forget that you are in the Étoile massif.

Starting from the Marseille metropolitan area, a combination of classic trails and lesser-known paths to reach and explore a section of the Chaîne de l'Étoile ridges.

A challenging hike to the peaks of Bau Trauqua mountain via the valley of the Grotte des Ermites, then back via the Col Sainte Anne and the Grotte du Facteur. Along the way, you will find caves, grottos, springs and a well. A wild landscape with strangely shaped rocks.

A difficult hike offering access to the ruins of Notre-Dame du Rot and the Pilon du Roi via less well-trodden paths, as they do not appear on IGN maps. Along the way, you’ll encounter a spectacular landscape with strangely shaped rocks and magnificent views of Marseille, Gardanne and the Sainte-Victoire massif.Please note: there are a few difficult ascents and descents where you will need to use your hands (see practical information).The use of a GPS or the app with the route track is essential.

A walk to the lovely 360° viewpoint of Mont du Marseillais in the hinterland of the Marseille region.

This hike starts at Logis Neuf near Plan-de-Cuques and takes you to Pilon du Roi, climbing up the beautiful valley of the same name. From there, follow the ridges offering magnificent panoramic views of the entire region to reach the Tête du Grand Puech. During the descent, you will discover the Aire de la Moure before returning, after a short climb, to your starting point.

This is more of a walk to enjoy with family or friends. The route follows a DFCI (firebreak), so the paths are very wide and very pleasant for children to cycle on or for pushing pushchairs. The path is wide, practically along the entire length of the route, but gently sloping. This is the Chemin de Mimet. When you arrive near Notre-Dame-des-Anges, below, there is a narrow, rocky and picturesque path for experienced walkers. It leads to the Grotte des Ermites, some 100 metres below. You then have to retrace your steps. Children will be safe during this descent to the Grotte des Ermites, which will leave them with a very nice memory. It's not very long, but it's really very pretty.

Starting from the village of Logis Neuf, a classic hike to the Pilon du Roi via its valley, but with an alternative return route through another small valley passing below Notre Dame du Rot, which is well worth exploring for its wild and rugged character.

La Parloire and La Barre Coupée – everything has been said about these two distinctive features of the Garlaban massif. Every time we pass through, we appreciate this superb landscape. There are several possible starting points for exploring this site. I suggest a route starting from Les Maurins, entirely on footpaths. It’s a hike that can easily be done in half a day. It could also serve as a basis for planning a longer hike in the future.

A short family hike on wide, passable paths. Walk on the plateau and in the valley. Beautiful unobstructed views of Sainte-Victoire Mountain, the city of Aix-en-Provence, the Roquefavour Aqueduct and the TGV viaduct.

This short hike takes you through the Valabre Forest with beautiful views of the Étoile massif (Pilon du Roi) and the Luynes valley between Gardanne and Luynes. The nearby cliffs add to the picturesque nature of this route.

A suggested route to reach the Aire de la Moure, taking you off the usual wide tracks and favouring paths at the bottom of valleys with varied and wild scenery. Please do take the practical information into account.

A short hike in the Étoile massif between tracks and trails. You will often come across a herd of goats roaming free on or near the boules court. Please do not feed them (there is a sign reminding you that this is prohibited). However, if you have any water left over after your hike, especially in summer, please feel free to fill their water tanks.

A pleasant, undemanding route starting from La Fève, ascending the wooded Vallon de l’Oule – a haven for numerous game species – towards the Col de l’Amandier, before descending the Vallon de l’Amandier, a wilder valley with its limestone slabs and potholes. The return route via the Puits de Boude leads back to the starting point along a wide DFCI track, offering beautiful views of Allauch, Marseille and the entire Étoile mountain range.

A short, unpretentious walk with lovely views of the Aix countryside, and longer in good weather.

A hike to the highly original Aire de la Moure with its panoramic view of the Marseille region. Avoid Thursdays, as this is when Canadairs and other Dash 8 aircraft practise their drops.

An easy hike, mostly on fairly wide tracks, then a path leading to the Aire de la Moure from the Vallon de Mordeau. Beautiful views of Marseille and all the surrounding hills with beautiful colours to discover. You may even see black pigs raised organically along the way.

This hike takes you through different environments in a very short time 

pLEASE NOTE: work is being carried out on the Gardanne-Luynes railway line. The hiking trails are closed to the public. A Sunday family walk through landscapes of small rivers and hills, without going into the department's large parks.

An easy hike in the woods above Simiane-Collongue with some beautiful views of the Pilon du Roi, the Étoile and the Aix region with Sainte-Victoire in the background.

This short walk on the heights of Auriol was discovered by chance while trying to get as close as possible to the chapel, which stands out immaculately against the blue sky. It's a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon with the family, climbing just 37 metres. From the top, there is a remarkable view of the village and the entire surrounding area, from the northern slopes of the Sainte-Baume mountain range to the east to the Étoile mountain range to the west.

This hike involves climbing to the summit of the Étoile from the north. The start and finish are in a wooded valley, but the rest of the route is very open: you are on a summit ridge and the landscape is magnificent, provided the visibility is good (Marseille, Côte Bleue, Étang de Berre, Alpilles, Mont Ventoux, Aix, Sainte-Victoire, Pilon du Roi).

This hike offers striking contrasts, with a technicalfirst section featuring steep, rocky passages that pass through the Grotte de l'Eygrou cave, then climb up a stream bed to reach the ridge of the Chaîne de l'Étoile. After crossing along the cliffs between the Étoile and the Grande Étoile with magnificent views, the return via the Jas de Féraud allows you to make the most of a large, flat, stone-free track that has recently been re-graded. A real pleasure.

This is a mixed hike, with a large section on tarmac and a section through the forest to explore a cave, the Fontaine de Venel and the Fontaine des Vaches. It passes through the old village and goes past the Château de Gui, but unfortunately it is on private property so it is not possible to see it.

Circular tour with a visit to the Eygrou cave, then climb up to the Col des Ouides and the Étoile lookout point for a beautiful view of Marseille.

This circular walk takes you along the ridge of the Chaîne de l’Étoile between the Grand Sanguin and La Colle. You can admire Marseille and the coast on one side, and Sainte-Victoire on the other. If the weather is clear, the Alps and Mont Ventoux will be in full view. The walk does not present any particular difficulties but does require a fair amount of stamina.

This hike leads to the Hermitage of Saint-Jean du Puy, an observatory overlooking the Arc Valley and facing the Sainte-Victoire Mountain. On the other side, to the south, is the village of Saint-Zacharie and the Sainte-Baume mountain range. The site, which has become a favourite spot for hikers, consists of a refuge, a chapel, a shelter with gardens and a watchtower that serves as an observatory overlooking the valley.

Another route to reach the Vallon des Escombes via beautiful tracks running alongside the Chemin de Mimet and through the Puits de Besson. A magnificent panorama of the Étoile massif, followed by the wild, rugged landscape of the Vallon des Escombes. Finally, a tunnel of vegetation to pass through. Important note: please take careful note of the practical information before setting out on this hike.

Another suggested route to reach the Pilon du Roi via its valley, starting from the Chemin des Gages in Plan-de-Cuques via a beautiful ridge path between the Vallon des Escombes and the Chemin de Mimet. After a round trip to the lookout point and a passage at the foot of the Pilon du Roi, the return route also follows a ridge between the Vallon de Mauvelle and the Vallon du Pilon du Roi, passing via the Caban. Magnificent 360° views throughout the route.

Hike through a landscape of rocks and vegetation dotted with ochre and red earth. The first part of the route follows a very wide path in the footsteps of Cézanne, offering extraordinary views of the Sainte-Victoire mountain (south-west side, the most painted by the artist), the Refuge Cézanne and the ruins of the hamlet of Le Trou. The second part is shaded, on a small path, shorter and wilder.

Circular route starting from the hamlet of Kirbon to reach the hermitage and walk along the Regagnas ridges with beautiful views of Sainte-Victoire, Sainte-Baume, the Étoile mountain range, Garlaban, the Huveaune valley, etc.

An exceptional hike at the bottom of Lake Bimont to be done before the dam is filled in 2019. Views of the most beautiful side of Sainte-Victoire, a beautiful climb, a magnificent panorama of the region, a walk at the bottom of the lake, old stones bearing witness to times gone by. Important: The end of this route, part of which is marked on the map in the lake, could be completed until May 2019, before the lake was filled. Read the practical information below. 11/09/2024: Closure of the Imoucha trail for 3 months, from 1 October to 31 December (2024 and 2025). Hiking is not possible during these periods. See practical information.

The tour of the Cengle plateau is an easy circular hike around the Cengle plateau, a veritable balcony offering splendid and unusual views of the Sainte-Victoire Mountain. You can also start from Beaurecueil (car park at the start of the path) or from the Bouquet car park on the CD 17 before Saint Antonin. It should also be noted that this area is much less frequented than the rest of the Sainte Victoire massif.

Starting from the Aurigon car park, near Le Tholonet, this is a pleasant, easy walk to the Bimont Dam, following the GR®2013 trail which passes by the old marble quarry. After visiting the dam site, the route then joins the GR®653A trail, which passes by the Cézanne Refuge and the ruins of the Chapelle du Trou. Magnificent views and a varied landscape throughout the walk.

A magnificent hike following the closure of the Bimont dam for over a year during the week. Superb views, to be enjoyed clockwise as you climb towards the Bimont dam. 11/09/2024: Closure of the Imoucha trail for 3 months, from 1 October to 31 December (2024 and 2025). Hike not possible during these periods. See practical information.

This very easy hike takes you in the footsteps of the viewpoints painted by Cézanne. The route takes you around the Sainte-Victoire National Nature Reserve. Along the way, you will see the Bimont dam, the Doudon aqueduct and an old marble quarry.

This short hike runs along the steepest slopes of the mountain, where you will be dazzled by the mineral colours of the rock. You will discover the ruins of a medieval Celtic-Ligurian fortified settlement abandoned around the 10th century on the Untinos oppidum, and the return route offers magnificent views of the ochre ridges in the foreground of Sainte-Victoire.

A short hike, but with a decent bit of elevation gain nonetheless, beneath the Croix de Provence. It’s a good warm-up before tackling the Croix de Provence, which stands on the Sainte-Victoire ridge at an altitude of 948 m above the Priory, restored and maintained by the Friends of Sainte-Victoire since 1955.

This walk allows you to explore the varied landscapes of the village of Auriol, with its narrow streets, along the Huveaune and in the surrounding area, and to enjoy panoramic views, particularly from the Chapel of Sainte-Croix.

La meilleure manière d'apprécier la Montagne Sainte-Victoire n'est pas nécessairement de monter au sommet mais peut être bien de rester à son pied. La boucle décrite ici, à l'aplomb de la Croix de Provence, vous fera découvrir la Face Sud sous tous les angles, de près et avec du recul. L'itinéraire est varié, vallonné avec de superbes vues.

It is a superb, very enjoyable hike with magnificent views, though it remains quite technical with tricky sections; there are always people at the Croix de Provence and the Prieuré de la Sainte-Victoire.

A pleasant walk with views of La Croix de Sainte-Victoire. The Bouquet car park can be busy during peak periods. It is therefore advisable to choose your timing carefully and not hesitate to set off early. Stop off at the Cézanne refuge before setting off along a wide path through groves of young oak trees and well-maintained olive groves. 07/11/2024: Hikes temporarily inaccessible: the black and green trails on Sainte-Victoire are closed by municipal decree due to rockfalls. See practical information.

A superb hike, best enjoyed in spring: the Zola and Bimont dams and the old Roman dam are magnificent.

A hike that takes you up to the Sainte-Victoire priory and the Croix de Provence from the Plan d'En Chois car park.

Mont du Marseillais, which is easily accessible, offers a wonderful 360° panorama of the surrounding mountains and even the Mercantour on a clear day. After passing the small summit of Le Défens, the descent is via Le Grand Vallon to return to the Marseillais valley, where pine trees reign supreme. A beautiful, peaceful loop in unspoilt wilderness, undisturbed by the rare cars that use the tracks.

A physical loop hike along Sainte-Victoire, a climb to Prieuré Sainte-Victoire / Croix de Provence through Bau Cézanne and going back through "le Gouffre de Garagaï" and "les deux Aiguilles".

A very beautiful Nordic walking route with no difficulty and wide tracks. A magnificent panorama of the entire Chaîne de l'Étoile and views of Allauch, Plan-de-Cuques, Marseille and its harbour.

Just a stone’s throw from one of France’s largest urban areas, with wild valleys and picturesque, panoramic ridges.

A very challenging circular route to Pilon du Roi, passing through four magnificent valleys: the Vallon de Mauvelle with its large limestone basins to cross, the Vallon du Pilon du Roi with its strangely shaped rocks that sometimes seem to be watching us, the more accessible Vallon de Fontvielle with its caves and springs, and the Vallon des Escombes, sometimes wild, sometimes calm, with its long tunnel of vegetation at the end of the route. A short stretch of tarmac through La Montade to return to the starting point.

A challenging hike between two parallel, wild and rocky valleys. The route linking these two valleys follows a lovely track that passes by the Cauvières springs and the Gargoutier well. Beautiful views of Marseille and the Chaine de l’Etoile. A GPS is essential. Please take careful note of the ‘Practical Information’ section before setting out on this hike.

A circular walk on fairly wide tracks in the Plan de Cuques Communal Forest with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the city of Marseille, starting from La Montade. The first part of the walk is quite strenuous as it climbs steadily. The second part is downhill. Can be done on foot or by bike.

An easy walk starting from Le Tholonet, allowing you to see the two dams and walk through the woods with a view of Sainte-Victoire and the entire surrounding valley. Easy to follow as the route is on main paths

A splendid hike away from the main trails on the heights of Lake Zola, which we will circumnavigate, as well as along both banks of the River Cause, which feeds the dam. Along the way, an ancient Roman dam, magnificent views of the lake and the Sainte Victoire massif, and the discovery of numerous shelters and caves. Finally, a short detour to the Bibémus quarries and their ochre-coloured carved rocks. Please read the ‘Practical Information’ section carefully.

Whether you want a leisurely family outing or a brisk run, this circular allows you to escape Le Tholonet on tracks and paths with little traffic, offering views of Montagne Sainte-Victoire.

A walk that allows you to explore the Petite Mer with its hydraulic structures – the Roman dam, the old dam and the Zola Dam – to enjoy beautiful views of Sainte-Victoire and to get a closer look at the Bibémus Quarries.

A lovely walk which includes a chance to see Cézanne’s Windmill, to discover the ancient ruins of the Roman aqueduct and its waterfall and the Zola dam. In the distance you can see Mont Sainte-Victoire.

A beautiful hike starting from Le Tholonet, mostly off the beaten track. You walk along the small Cause stream in the Petite Mer, then continue on to the Zola Dam and the Bimont Dam. Return to Le Tholonet, passing close to Cézanne's mill.

A short circular walk taking you to the ruins of the Roman dam and then along the Zola dam. Comment on Monday, 24 March 2025. >Please note: the path between (1) and (3) is private property: there is a barrier and no trespassing. Go via the cemetery.

A magnificent and very challenging route in the Sainte-Victoire massif from the Deux Aiguilles car park, via La Marbrerie to access the Pas du Clapier, then on to the Pic des Mouches, descending via the La Tine trail and then climbing back up to the Baudino Refuge via the Chapelle de Saint-Ser.

A loop hike on the south side of Sainte-Victoire Montagne allowing access to the ridge via the Marbrière and the Brèche du Clapier (gap). The walk along the ridge towards the Croix de Provence offers splendid views. Descent via the Priory, the Pas du Berger and the Cézanne Shelter.

This short hike offers a circuit that alternates between cliff tops and narrow valleys. After thefirst part, which offers a panoramic view of the entire hike and a passage over the Zola Dam, thesecond part immerses you in the Petite Mer valley (along the La Cause stream) and its dam.

A short, challenging hike, starting from Saint-Antonin-sur-Bayon towards the Barthélémy Baudino Refuge, passing through La Marbrière and then the Pas du Clapier. There is a cave along the way. The return route goes round La Torque hill, then follows beautiful DFCI tracks at the foot of Sainte-Victoire. Magnificent scenery throughout the route.

Spectacular route on the southern slope of Sainte-Victoire, arriving on the ridge path via the Grotte des Hirondelles and descending via the Pas de l'Escalette and the Refuge de Cézanne.

A challenging and demanding route that sometimes straddles the line between hiking and light climbing.The route involves a triple ascent of Sainte-Victoire via the three marked trails to the south-west of the massif: the Black, Green (Forcioli) and finally Yellow trails.Then continue along the ridges to the east, crossing the plateau’s characteristic sharp limestone pavement, to the Brèche du Clapier.(__Please note: see important warning in the description__)

This hike offers breathtaking, legendary views of Lake Zola, with the Montagne Sainte-Victoire painted by Cézanne in the background. Marked paths alternate with wild trails.

Circular loop around La Marbrière. A challenging and demanding route, sometimes straddling the line between hiking and light climbing. Route involving a west-to-east traverse of Sainte-Victoire via high-altitude paths and, at times, completely off-trail. Pas de l’Oppidum and Pas du Chat are also on the itinerary. 07/11/2024: Hikes temporarily inaccessible: the black and green routes on Sainte-Victoire are closed by municipal order due to rockfalls. See practical information.

A circular loop in Sainte-Victoire. Ascent to Prieuré Sainte-Victoire / Croix de Provence via Écaille de Tortue and Gouffre de Garagaï, return via Gouffre de Garagaï and Deux Aiguilles.

A beautiful hike in the Étoile massif on tracks or paths with magnificent views of Marseille, the Étoile and Mediterranean vegetation: fig trees, arbutus trees, heather, rosemary, etc.

An alternative route, entitled ‘From La Nègre to L’Oasis’, runs between the southern and northern slopes of the Chaîne de l’Étoile. Starting from La Nègre, it takes you to the Col des Ouides, then down the Mérentiers stream towards the place known as L’Oasis. The climb back up to the Pas de la Colle, followed by the descent towards the Vallon de Mauvelle and a section passing close to the Tête du Jacquot, then leads back to the La Nègre area.

A fairly challenging walk from the Parc de la Nègre to the Pilon du Roi, returning via the Tête du Jacquot. The main attraction of this walk lies above all in the long stretch along the ridge of the Massif de l’Étoile, with superb views on both sides, rocks of all shapes and, finally, the arrival at the Pilon du Roi, an imposing monolith visible from across the region. Please read the route description carefully at (7).

A circular route on the southern slope of Sainte-Victoire, passing through the Col de Vauvenargues and the Col de Saint-Ser, then descending to the Ermitage Saint-Ser and the Refuge Baudino. The Saint-Ser black trail is closed from 1 February to 15 July 2023 (between 4 and 5). See practical information.

This large circular starting from Saint-Antonin-sur-Bayon takes you through several characteristic places: the old marble quarry, the Barthélémy Baudino Refuge, the Hermitage of Saint-Ser and the pass of the same name, then the ridges on the way back to the Priory, the descent to the Pas de l'Escalette and the Cézanne Refuge and, finally, the Oppidum Untinos.

An original circular in the Étoile massif to discover numerous wells and old lime kilns.

A lovely walk along the Huveaune in Roquevaire. You’ll pass a farm (calves, goats, poultry, horses, etc.) and, further on, a very pretty waterfall. This short walk is accessible via bus route 8 of the metropolitan bus network.

An easy Nordic walking route at the foot of La Grande Étoile and on beautiful DFCI tracks. Along the way, enjoy beautiful views of Marseille and the Côte Bleue.

A beautiful hike with cable and chain passages and magnificent 360° views from the top of the Garlaban. Please note that a municipal by-law has prohibited descent via the Dansaires trail since 2010 due to rockfalls.

This trail is an alternative known to local hikers for reaching the Saint-Antonin car parks when they have just completed a circular in Sainte-Victoire: it avoids following the brown-marked route, passing through the Col de l'Oppidum (alt. 580 m), then descending a very steep and rugged path. There is a 40-metre less elevation gain, and when you are in a hurry to get to the car park or tired, taking this Trou trail is a good option, especially in bad weather.

A beautiful hike in the Massif de l'Etoile, with superb views of Marseille, its surroundings and the Frioul Islands. The colours and scents of the heath accompany walkers throughout the circuit.

This walk starts in Auriol and climbs up to the Grotte des Infernets before descending to the Glacière des Encanaux. Most of the walk takes place through pine forests, often alongside a river and accompanied by birdsong.

A short hike to the famous Taoumé, dear to Marcel Pagnol. It is best to avoid this walk in the heat of summer.

A pleasant hike starting from Allauch to discover the Vallon de l'Amandier with beautiful views of Marseille and the Côte Bleue.

A pleasant circular route starting from Allauch to discover the Pic du Taoumé via the Pounche des Escaouprés. Along the way, you will pass the Grotte du Grosibou, Baume Sourne, the Puits du Mûrier and then return via the Col du Tubé. Throughout this route, you can enjoy a sumptuous 360° landscape.

An original route starting from Allauch towards the Pic du Taoumé, passing through the Pas de Menoun and the Source du Chien, then heading up the Vallon des Escaouprés amidst the water-filled limestone potholes. En route, take a detour to the Grotte de l’Étoile where, after heavy storms, you can see water gushing from its channel, then on the return journey, through old bauxite mining galleries. The whole route is crowned by sumptuous landscapes. (see the nearby section)

After a long spell of rain, this route allows you to discover water gushing from the depths of the Grotte de l’Étoile. Following the stream bed, the route descends to a magnificent waterfall, which you will then climb up to reach the overflowing Source du Chien further up. Then, as you climb up the Vallon des Escaouprès amidst the potholes, a detour is a must to Font Berguette and its jet of water emerging from the middle of the cliff. A dazzling spectacle. Finally, a walk towards the Pic du Taoumé before returning to the starting point via a wide track.

A short hike but with lots of curiosities to discover. Engravings on limestone slabs made by the ancient shepherds of Pas dei Menoun and Source du Chien, a rare spring that still flows throughout the winter and into spring. The Berger cave and its engravings, the Grotte de l'Étoile where you can see water gushing out after heavy storms. Finally, on the way back, the Laurier spring and the ascent of the Grande Tête Rouge for a 360° panorama of Marseille and its surroundings.

This is a fairly challenging hike that takes you to several highlights of the Garlaban massif, such as the Col de l'Amandier, the Parloire and the Barre Coupé, the Plaine de la Grive (a strange, undulating plain), the Col du Tubé and the Taoumé. All this with beautiful 360° views of the entire region. This plain should not be confused with the Corniche des Tourdres (thrushes in Provençal), which is located above Lascours.

This is a hike that climbs quite steeply on a tarmac road right at the start, then continues to climb quite steeply for a few kilometres. You then descend gently, with a few sections over rock that are a bit tricky, but not too much. The route takes you across pleasant plateaus with unobstructed views of the Vallon des Amandiers and Sainte-Baume, with Marseille in the background.

This route allows you to discover the old bauxite mines in the Allauch massif. These small deposits in shallow galleries were quickly exhausted. For safety reasons, the entrance to some galleries is blocked by gates and rubble. Remains of these mines are still visible. This route also allows you to discover the Baumes des Pestiférés, the Pichoun Ome spring, the Tête Ronde and the Grande Tête Rouge.

Route in the hills of Allauch, taking paths that are less frequented than the main tracks. A feeling of wild tranquillity in the heath. Beautiful views of Marseille and the Chaîne de l'Étoile, particularly the Aire de la Moure, a training area for Civil Protection aircraft.

This hike takes you through the forest and vineyards. Along the way, you will discover the care and attention that winegrowers devote to their vines in order to produce the best wine possible. The icing on the cake is that you can visit the Auriol wine cellars and taste the wines produced from the vines you have just walked through.

A pleasant hike to the Baumes des Pestiférés, then a detour to the Vallon des Escaouprés with its large limestone slabs and water-filled potholes. Along the way or nearby, you will find the Pichoun Ome spring, the Grande Tête Rouge, Le Col du Sauvage and La Tête Ronde with ancient bauxite deposits, the Berger and Etoile caves, La Source du Chien and its rock carvings, and finally La Pounche des Escaouprés. Beautiful views of Allauch, Marseille and the Étoile mountain range.

A pleasant short route in the hills overlooking the village of Allauch, passing by Notre-Dame du Château and the ruins of the Sainte Croix du Lointain chapel. Beautiful views of Allauch and Marseille.

Double circular in the hills of Allauch starting from the Notre Dame du Château Chapel. Walk along the Baume des Pestiférés and the Tête Ronde, then climb up to the Pic du Taoumé. Then pass through the Escaouprés valley and begin the climb to the summit of Grande Tête Rouge, then Pounche des Escaouprés. Return via an old bauxite quarry at the foot of Petite Tête Rouge.

The hills of Allauch offer constant points of interest. Hunters use paths that are covered by vegetation (be careful, it can be quite prickly...). The caves are enigmatic, particularly the Étoile cave (a very large tunnel). As usual, the view of Marseille from the Grande Tête Rouge is well worth the climb. The section crossing the stream bed is very pleasant and accessible. There are springs to discover all along the route.

A short sporting excursion in the hills of Allauch: Petite and Grande Tête Rouge, returning via the Notre-Dame du Château Chapel, offering three magnificent viewpoints. Finally, a short stroll through the village of Allauch.

A pretty green area nestled between Aix-en-Provence, Bouc-Bel-Air and Gardanne.

A lovely circular walk along the paths of Marcel Pagnol, with panoramic views of the sea and mountains. To finish, a more touristy spot: Allauch and its little Notre-Dame du Château Chapel.

Short, challenging hike in the Baudino refuge area via the Grand Couloir (chain/cable passages) and descent via the Pas de Clapier after enjoying the views from the Plan de la Crau

After a relatively classic route with some slightly technical, sometimes aerial and exposed passages, the circular route ends with a little-known, easy route which, when you take a step back, offers magnificent views of the mountain. The GPX track may be useful.

Starting from Aix-en-Provence, a pleasant walk south of the Arc with some lovely views

A walk starting from the centre of Aix-en-Provence and following the course of the Torse river. Half urban, half nature. Discover little-known ruins.

Hike near Auriol, in the Encanaux and Infernets ravines, with an ascent of two rarely visited peaks, discovery of caves and a visit to the Encanaux ice house.

A splendid walk starting from the Encanaux, near Auriol, along the top of the Infernets and then the Coutronne ravines. At times along the cliffside ravines, similar to some sections of the Gorges du Verdon. From Lare Pass (Col de la Lare), you will have a magnificent view of the Sainte-Baume range and the Pic de Bertagne to the south and Sainte-Victoire Mountain, Mont Olympe and Mont Aurélien to the north.

The Encanaux and Infernets ravines are two remarkable valleys near Auriol. This route will take you up the entire length of the wild Encanaux ravine, which is very quiet and shaded in hot weather. The return journey will take you through the more classic Coutronne and Infernets ravines with their beautiful landscapes.

As soon as you enter the park, you immediately tackle a steep climb. You’ll encounter much narrower paths, as well as unmarked paths and paths that are barely there: it’s a bit like a treasure hunt. So this is for experienced hikers. There will also be DFCI tracks. The off-track sections are no longer than 300 metres, so nothing to worry about. However, you will needto use the GPX track on your GPS. It is a physically demanding but lovely hike. It follows the ridges. It’s a great experience with magnificent scenery. For much of the way, there are also areas of undergrowth to cross, such as the Bois de la Lare, which the route passes through on the descent. The route also takes in the Grottes des Infernets, with views of the spring bubbling up, depending on the time of year.

If you have limited time to visit the centre of Aix-en-Provence, this route, organised and recommended by the Tourist Office, allows you to see the main highlights.This circular route starts at the Tourist Office, located just a stone’s throw from an easily accessible car park.

A short, easy and pleasant hike, alternating between springs, gorges and small caves, with picnic areas along the stream. Moderator's warning on 25/01/2021: Please note! Reviews of this hike indicate that it is preferable to have a GPS device to follow the route correctly and that some paths have been overgrown.

A challenging circular in Sainte-Victoire starting from the Saint-Ser car park. The ascent is via the Col de Saint-Ser and the descent via the Col de Vauvenargues. The Saint-Ser black trail is closed from 1 February to 15 July 2023 (between 4 and 6). See practical information.

An energetic loop in Sainte-Victoire leaving from the Saint-Ser car park. The climb up goes via the east of the Bau de l'Aigle and the descent back down is via the 'Pas du Clapier'.

A physically demanding route, sometimes straddling the line between hiking and climbing. The route involves a west-to-east traverse across the easternmost part of Sainte-Victoire, taking in a few off-trail sections. The route is dotted with numerous caves and cavities, including the Grotte aux Champignons. The Saint Ser black trail is closed by municipal order from 1 February to 15 July each year. The green trail is closed by municipal order between 1 February and 15 July each year (to protect the breeding of birds, butterflies, reptiles, etc.). See practical information.

Short family hike. Start on the botanical trail (optional) then climb up to the chapel. Pass by a cave and you may see some goats.

A family outing, a cultural outing, an architectural outing... and a culinary outing if you like! Fountains, cathedrals, churches, museums, theatres, hotels, squares and other attractions... The main things to discover when you come to Aix-en-Provence, a city of water, art, history and well-being!