Pic de Bertagne and Grande Baume

The start is roughly two-thirds of the way up the climb to Espigoulier from Gémenos, 2 km before the Col de l’Espigoulier. There are only a few parking spaces available here, so car-sharing is essential!

(S/E) A track with a barrier marks the start of this walk. Head straight east for 300 m.

(1) On the left, after a meadow, look for a small path that climbs northwards. It is marked from time to time by purple dots. The path winds its way sometimes through the bushes, sometimes between the trees. Join a^{PR® signpost.}

(2) Head up to the right, towards the east, and reach the Col de Bertagne.

(3) Continue eastwards. Follow the yellow markings. The path is sometimes a little hard to follow, but you can’t go wrong. You’ll arrive at the foot of the Pic de Bertagne, near a monument erected in memory of hikers from Marseille.

(4) Begin the ascent to the peak via a well-signposted path. The climb is strenuous, particularly in the second half, and in places the markings are not very clear. At the top, join the road.

(5) Turn right towards the clearly visible dome to the west. Go round the civil aviation buildings on the left, following the yellow markings. Head for the viewpoint.

(6) Retrace your steps to the previous junction.

(5) Take the path heading due east to reach the Col du Fauge.

(7) Take the path on the right towards the Col de Bertagne and the Saint Pons Valley. Head downhill, keeping well to the right as the path is sometimes difficult. You’ll reach a fork.

(8) Climb up to the right, follow the foot of the Pic de Bertagne for 600 m and join the^GRP® Marseille-Provence-Métropole.

(4) Retrace your steps along the path you took on the way out and arrive at the Col de Bertagne, which you passed earlier.

(3) Head down to the left, towards the south-west in the direction of Grande Baume, until you reach a fork in the path.

(9) Turn off to the right, heading due west, reach the cave and go through it. The path emerges on the other side. Continue for 400 m.

(10) Turn right, then left, to return to the original fork.

(S/E) Carry on straight ahead and return to the gate to get back to the car park (S/E).