Les Pennes-Mirabeau walks

A circular route to visit two springs between Vitrolles and Les Pennes Mirabeau. The first is completely unknown because it is hidden in the hollow of a cliff with a humid and tropical atmosphere with its fig trees and brambles. The second is much better known. This circular route serves as a base from which to add detours to the ochre-coloured cliffs of Vitrolles or Urbex, the Fermes des Plaines d'Arbois and also the abandoned stadium.

Starting from the Les Pinchinades district in Vitrolles, this hike begins peacefully along the La Cadière stream, which leads to the source of the Infernet and its waterfalls, surrounded by magnificent red ochre rocks, worthy of an American film set. After passing through the Ravin de l'Infernet and climbing back up to the plateau (unfortunately ravaged by fire in 2018), the crossing of the Ravin de la Cardeline allows you to reach the Marthe spring, hidden among the olive trees and thick vegetation, but whose flow can be heard. The return journey through the red ochre hills passes through a narrow, deep karstic cave before reaching the Infernet spring and the starting point. A complete change of scenery just a stone's throw from the city.

An oasis of freshness! One of the easiest walks to do with children, following the stream back to its source. Please note: A hiker has informed us that this hike is no longer possible due to a landslide reported by a municipal decree. In addition, between 1 June and 30 September, some areas may be closed to the public (fire hazard).

A circular route in the heart of the Vitrolles plateau with balcony trails in the middle of the Provençal heath, small rocky valleys and wide tracks, former service roads for the villages of Vitrolles, Rognac and Velaux. A peaceful environment with beautiful views.

Loop starting from the Collets Rouges equestrian centre, Vitrolles, the radar, Rognac and back via Salvarenque. Walk on very wide, carriage-accessible paths, to be avoided on windy days (mistral). Views of the Étang de Berre and Marseille-Provence airport.

A pleasant hike along the coast on the Chemin des Douaniers. I chose to classify this walk as moderate not because of its length (10 km), but because of two steep sections and the fact that the trail is not suitable for people who are afraid of heights.

A short walk up high to enjoy the view of Marseille and the islands.

This is a very pleasant hike to do in spring to enjoy the scents, light, swimming and views that nature has to offer.

A pleasant little walk. Take a picnic and make a day of it.

Starting from Le Rove, this easy route takes you to the ruins of Fort de Figuerolles without having to go through steep valleys or along the difficult Sentier des Douaniers. A walk along lovely tracks, through olive groves and on marked paths, with magnificent views of the coastline and the harbour of Marseille.

A challenging hike to discover the Croix des Dames and Croix Paix et Amour on the Baou de l'Œuvre ridge, then the Croix de la Vesse at the top of the rock overlooking the port of Niolon. Rough trails and a few steep climbs on scree, but with the Calanque de Figuerolles to relax. Magnificent views of the coastline and the harbour of Marseille with its islands.

Head towards Fort de Figuerolles via Vallon du Coucourdier and with a circular loop on the Sentier des Douaniers. Along the way, enjoy magnificent views of Marseille harbour and discover old watchtowers and galleries carved into the mountain. After visiting the ruins of the fort, the return journey takes you along a superb ridge overlooking the Vallon des Fontêtes, ending at the Puits de l'Œuvre. Finally, take a short detour to Notre-Dame du Perpétuel Secours before returning to the starting point.

A pleasant hike south of Le Rove between Les Esclades and La Gourgue Longue, alternating between ridge walks with magnificent views over the Bay of Marseille and paths at the bottom of valleys that are sometimes wild and steep-sided, or else well-maintained and lined with olive trees.

An atypical route along the crests and valleys of the Estaque mountain range between Le Rove and Gignac-La-Nerthe. Along the way, you'll see the Vierge du Rove, the Chapelle St-Michel, the ruins of the Templar castle and the remains of the Camp de Laure. A varied landscape with beautiful views over the harbour of Marseille and the Étang de Berre.

From Le Rove, head towards Le Resquiadou via the ridges and the Sentier des Douaniers to discover and climb up the Vallon du Gipier. In an arid and wild environment, you will see the Baume des Pigeons, the Grotte du Blaireau and, further on, the Grotte des Chauves-souris. There are beautiful views throughout the route. The GPX track may be useful.

A challenging hike at high altitude towards Fort de Figuerolles. The outbound route follows a ridge overlooking the Coucourdier valley, whilst the return route follows a ridge overlooking the Fontêtes valley. Then, a detour to the heights of the Baou de l’Œuvre. Throughout the route, there are breathtaking views of the bay of Marseille and its islands, as well as the coastline of the Côte Bleue. Please read the ‘Practical Information’ section carefully.

A loop through the hills to the north of Le Rove, leading to the Oppidum de la Cloche, where many remains remain. Set in a sumptuous landscape and surrounded by wild goat pastures, the route then reaches Chapelle Saint-Michel via the wild and steep Gipière valley. The return journey takes in the Plaine de Gignac, through olive, oak and arbutus plantations.