The Vitrolles Plateau

Parking is available in the spaces along Avenue du Vent du Soleil.

(S/E) Pass through the entrance gate to the hill and continue for about 50 metres.

(1) Turn right up the small slope then quickly turn left. Follow the path without leaving it, ignoring any turn-offs to the right.

(2) Continue to the right along the track, pass a green gate and carry on along the path: this gate marks the boundary between the municipalities of Vitrolles and Rognac. You will reach a three-way junction.

(3) Take the path on the right leading to the Vitrolles plateau: the going starts to get uphill. You’ll reach a large six-way junction as you arrive on the plateau.

(4) Take the path opposite, keeping the wire fence on your left. Pass the first junction and carry on to the next one, about a hundred metres further on, where the road is blocked by a gate.

(5) Turn right and continue along the path, keeping in the same direction. You’ll reach a junction that looks like a roundabout, near a water tank.

(6) Turn right. Then continue straight on until you reach the large radar station or Boule de Vitrolles.

(7) Enjoy the scenery and the panoramic view from this spot. Then take the road downhill (Chemin du Val d'Anbla) towards Vitrolles to reach the foot of the Rocher.

(8) If you’re up for it, you can climb up by taking the stairs in front of you, then following the road to the right. The view from the top is magnificent!
Otherwise, continue right along Rue de la Paix and go as far as the junction.

(9) Take the Chemin du Trou du Loup straight ahead and diagonally to the right, towards Les Baumelles. Keep going straight on. Further on, pass the Allée des Baumelles on your right and continue for about a hundred metres.

(10) Take the path on the left: there is a fire hydrant in front of it. Once back on the tarmac, first turn right then left to rejoin Avenue du Vent du Soleil and reach the car park (S/E).

This is an easy walk, ideal for families, which can be done for much of the year.
However, the route is neither signposted nor shaded, so it is not recommended in hot weather.
Make sure you bring plenty of water.

Please note: during the summer months, access to the hill and the Vitrolles Plateau is restricted due to the high risk of fire. For further information, please call 08 11 20 13 13.

Highlights:
- The rock with its Notre-Dame-de-Vie chapel and Saracen tower. (8).
- The radar station and the panoramic view (7).