Septèmes-les-Vallons walks

This hike, which runs through the north-western part of the Étoile massif, offers exceptional 360° panoramic views from Aix to Marseille, passing by the Étang de Berre and the Marseille harbour. The route alternates between valleys and paths with spectacular views.

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 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 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).

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.

Hike from La Batarelle to La Grande Étoile and Le Petit Sanguin, avoiding the wide DFCI tracks as much as possible in favour of the small, steep paths, which give this route a sporty character. Along the way, you will see two wells, ruins, a cave, an old lime kiln and magnificent views of Marseille and the Côte Bleue.

A family walk around the Plateau de la Mure with its old bastide, olive grove and Vallon Dol basin. A huge space offering incredible views from north to south over the city of Marseille, the Côte Bleue and L'Estaque.

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 hike takes you through different environments in a very short time 

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

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

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).

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.

This route takes you to the main tourist attractions and picturesque spots in the Provençal village of Bouc-Bel-Air. The walk is fairly easy, with only a slightly challenging climb at the end of the route.

This moderately difficult walk takes you on a discovery of the Bouc-Bel-Air communal wood. You will see typical houses. You will overlook the town of Gardanne, its slag heaps and factories, and catch a glimpse of Sainte-Victoire. You will have the pleasure of getting some exercise while enjoying the forest and its scents.

This variation of the Bouc Bel Air communal wood hike is a little longer but has the advantage of being marked with small wooden signs and coloured markings. It takes you on a journey of discovery through the communal woods of Bouc-Bel-Air.

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.

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 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.

This hike first follows the start of the Côte Bleue to reach Figuerolles Beach, then climbs higher to overlook the bay of Marseille with magnificent views, and walks through the ruins of the old Figuerolles battery. The passages through the valleys give the walk a wilder feel. Moderator additions: Please note that there are difficult passages between points (2) and (4) Passages reported as prohibited (January 2021).

This is one of several hikes along the Côte Bleue. It is quite physically demanding and not recommended for young children as part of the route follows some steep cliffs above the sea. However, it offers wonderful views of the bay of Marseille, the islands and Notre-Dame de la Garde.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

Circular route starting from Le Rove towards the hills of La Nerthe, dotted with numerous quarries. This hike takes you along tracks and paths through the heath and valleys, offering magnificent views of the Étang de Berre and the Rade de Marseille, encounters with herds of wild goats, the hamlet of La Nerthe, ruins bearing witness to a rich agricultural past, and brick structures associated with railway tunnels.

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.

A very beautiful circular walk around the village of Le Rove, combining wide tracks with magnificent views of the Étang de Berre, the Rade de Marseille and the Côte Bleue, with a few steep paths to give this walk a challenging edge.

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.

This is a two-part hike, with a shaded and refreshing first section along the banks of the Canal de Marseille to the Roquefavour Aqueduct. The second part offers a more desert-like landscape on the wide tracks that criss-cross the Plateau du Grand Arbois and pass through the Jas des Vaches. There are varied landscapes throughout the hike.

Hike on the central part of the Arbois plateau with a variety of views: Marseille canal, ruins, Arbois plateau, pine forests, cliffs, Étang de Berre. Return via the charming Mion valley, which is covered in its entirety on this hike. Despite its length, this walk is not difficult and can be shortened or lengthened.

From the Grand Arbois plateau to the barren landscape and green, lightly wooded valleys, this hike offers beautiful panoramic views of the Arc valley, Sainte-Victoire and L'Étoile.

This short hike is ideal for a family outing in open countryside (avoid days when the mistral wind is blowing). In summer, you may encounter a herd of red goats on the plateau. These are Rove goats. This hike is dotted with information panels about the environment.

This short, very easy hike on a wide, even trail is ideal for a family outing. Avoid it on mistral days and in summer, as there is no shade and the plateau is very exposed to the wind. Beautiful unobstructed views of Aix-en-Provence, Éguilles, the Chaîne de l'Étoile, Gardanne and Sainte-Victoire.

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

We will take a tour of the old quarters of Marseille. The famous Panier district and the Old Port to see the fish stalls (best done in the morning). The Saint-Victor district where we will buy Navettes (small cakes). We will climb up to the Bonne Mère (Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde) and then head down to visit the Endoume neighbourhood, as far as the Vallon des Auffes. Finally, we'll head to the seaside via the Corniche, the Pharo gardens and then cross the Old Port by ferry (free).

Here is one of the many possible circular routes that will take us to the wonderful Calanque de l’Érevine where you can have a swim; this lovely circular route presents no significant difficulty.However, the Sentier du Douanier, which is very busy at weekends, is steep in places and also features a few slightly exposed sections that require you to watch your step carefully and take extra care if children are present. It may also prove tricky for those prone to vertigo. Please note: due to high footfall, the rocks can become slippery, even in sunny weather. Sturdy footwear and constant vigilance are essential.A walk best enjoyed in autumn or spring, This walk is classified as moderate, but the slippery rocks can raise its difficulty level to ‘difficult’.

Small isolated coves, secret valleys and magnificent views of Marseille and the Frioul Islands are on the agenda for this hike, which begins and ends at the crystal-clear waters of the Côte Bleue. A beautiful route that winds its way through pine trees and heath, offering numerous opportunities to enjoy stunning views of the sea.

A short, easy walk, just to help you digest.

This walk is straightforward in terms of the route; simply follow the blue markings. As for difficulty, there is nothing to report; avoid doing it in wet weather as the stones can be slippery, wear suitable footwear and you’re all set.

End of the Côte Bleue trail from Niolon, comprising the wild section in the Calanques and the suburban section along the RD568 to the Estaque district.

A short, very classic hike in the rocky inlets north of Marseille harbour between the ports of Niolon and La Redonne.

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.

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 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.

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 beautiful hike along the cliffs of Rognac: superb views of the town of Rognac with the Étang de Berre lagoon and the surrounding towns of Vitrolles, Berre and Velaux.

A short, peaceful family walk along wide paths, with a magnificent view of the lake, which is even more beautiful at sunset. To see a beautiful waterfall, plan your walk a few days after rain, as this is Provence.

An easy circular starting from Rognac towards the Collet Redon hill, passing by the Malaga Waterfall (Fontaine de Rognac) and then the Fontaine de l'Oule on the way there. After going around Collet Redon, the route rejoins theGRP®2013 and then runs along the cliffs of Rognac to the cross overlooking the town. A magnificent and varied landscape throughout the route.

A long, varied circular route with stunning unobstructed views of the Étang de Berre, Velaux, Sainte-Victoire, the Étoile massif and the Pilon du Roi, and the Réaltor reservoir. The paths are sometimes very stony. A few steep climbs to spice things up.