Hiking through Provence

Among the region's must-see attractions, the Mercantour National Park extends over more than 68,000 hectares of mountains and valleys. It offers a wide variety of hikes, from leisurely strolls to more intense challenges for experienced hikers. The snow-capped peaks, crystal clear lakes and view of the Alps make Mercantour a true jewel of Provence-Côte d'Azur.

For coastal lovers, the calanques of Marseille and Cassis offer hikes between sea and cliffs. These Mediterranean fjords are a true wonder of nature, with their turquoise waters and white cliffs plunging into the sea. The hiking trails allow you to discover these hidden treasures on foot, admiring the views of the Mediterranean Sea.

This region of France is also famous for its many marked trails, such as the GR4, which crosses Provence from Simiane-la-Rotonde to Grasse. This legendary trail offers a multitude of landscapes, from hilltop villages to lavender fields via the Verdon gorges, the largest canyon in Europe. Hikers thus have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Provençal culture while discovering wild and preserved nature.

By choosing a hiking holiday in Provence-Côte d'Azur, you can also enjoy the Mediterranean climate and the cultural riches of the region. Provençal villages, such as Gordes, Roussillon or Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, are essential stops. You can soak up the southern atmosphere and taste local specialties, such as tapenade, bouillabaisse or regional wine.

When to go for a stay in Provence-Côte d’Azur?

Provence-Côte d'Azur is a region of France particularly popular for its enchanting passages, its Mediterranean climate and its cultural richness. Whether in summer, autumn, winter or spring, this region offers nature lovers magnificent hiking opportunities.

In summer, Provence-Côte d'Azur benefits from exceptional sunshine and pleasant heat which invite you to explore the hiking trails. The beauty of the Calanques of Marseille, the mountain ranges of the Lubéron and the peaks of the Verdon offer a breathtaking view. Hikers also have the opportunity to cool off by swimming in the turquoise waters of secret coves or high-altitude lakes.

Autumn is an ideal season for a hiking trip in Provence-Côte d'Azur. The milder temperatures allow you to fully enjoy the flamboyant view offered by the vineyards, olive fields and cork oak forests whose shimmering colors awaken the senses. The hiking trails, often bordered by vineyards and picturesque villages, take on an even more magical dimension during this season.

Winter in Provence-Côte d'Azur is a privileged period for lovers of mountain sports and snowshoe hiking. The snow-capped peaks of the Mercantour and Alpes-Maritimes national parks offer impressive panoramas. The paths transform into immaculate tracks where silence reigns supreme, offering a unique hiking experience amid enchanting winter landscapes.

Spring is undoubtedly one of the most pleasant seasons to go on a hiking trip in Provence-Côte d'Azur. Nature awakens, flowers bloom and the mild temperatures allow you to fully enjoy the trails without suffering the intense summer heat. The intoxicating scents of lavender fields, flowering orchards and scrubland make it a season suitable for travel.

Which hiking trip to choose?

The departures of our stays are scheduled regularly throughout the year. Prices vary depending on the length of stay, level of comfort and options chosen. Whether you prefer a star stay, with daily hikes departing from your accommodation, or roaming with nights in different shelters, we have options suited to every type of traveler.

On our trips, it is possible to choose two roaming options:

Star:

The star stay takes place from a central lodge or hotel where you spend your nights in the same room (possibility of having a single room for a single supplement depending on availability). The hotel is often more comfortable and the weight of the bag is limited to the things needed during the day. The departure takes place in a loop every day.

When roaming:

Your nights will be spent in a different lodge, inn or refuge. On these stays which require a more committed level of physical condition.

You can also choose between traveling in a group with a guide or on your own:

In a group with a guide: Going in a group means living an experience together with participants you don't know before leaving. It also means being supervised by a hiking guide who is a specialist in the region who will pass on all his knowledge to you during your trip.

Self-guided: Going on a self-guided stay means being able to choose your departure date, who you wish to leave with, on a route personalized to your wishes and in the type of accommodation of your choice. You will not be accompanied by a guide but we provide IGN maps, a roadbook and a guide application. To guide you and support you throughout your stay, we provide you with detailed maps of the territory. This way, you can explore the trails in complete freedom, following the directions provided. You can also opt for a transfer of your luggage.

What are the most beautiful hikes to do in Provence-Côte d’Azur?

Among the most popular hikes are:

The Ocher trail in Roussillon: This easy hike will allow you to discover magnificent colored passages created by the ochres. Allow around an hour to walk on this path which offers a breathtaking view of the Luberon.

The Gorges du Verdon: This hike will take you along the impressive Gorges du Verdon, the largest canyon in Europe. You can enjoy breathtaking panoramas and wild landscapes. There are several possible routes, depending on your level and preferences.

Mont Ventoux: This hike will allow you to climb the famous Mont Ventoux, often called the “Giant of Provence”. You can enjoy spectacular views of the Alps, the Cévennes and the Mediterranean Sea from the summit.

The coastal path in Cassis: This path will allow you to discover superb coves and coves, in particular the famous Calanque d'En-Vau. You can enjoy magnificent panoramas of the Mediterranean Sea and the limestone cliffs of the area.

The Daluis Gorges: Located in the Alpes-Maritimes, these gorges, with their red cliffs, offer an impressive view. You can hike there through small trails to admire these unique geological formations.

Here is a selection of hiking ideas:

The Calanques of Cassis:

Level: Different routes with varying levels (moderate to difficult) Walking time: Variable depending on the route chosen Elevation difference: Variable depending on the route chosen

Mont Ventoux:

Level: Difficult Walking time: Approximately 4 to 6 hours (depending on the starting point and the chosen route) Elevation gain: Approximately 1500 meters

Gorges du Verdon :

Level: Different trails with varying levels (easy to difficult) Walking time: Variable depending on the route chosen Elevation difference: Variable depending on the route chosen

The Giens Peninsula Coastal Path:

Level: Easy to moderate Walking time: Approximately 3 to 4 hours Elevation gain: Low

The Customs Path in Saint-Tropez:

Level: Easy to moderate Walking time: Approximately 2 to 3 hours Elevation gain: Low

The Crest Trail in Cassis:

Level: Difficult Walking time: Approximately 4 to 6 hours Elevation difference: Approximately 500 meters

Going on a trip with La Vie Sauvage guarantees you:

To experience a quality stay where each accommodation is selected for its quality giving you the fairest price for your room and comfortable nights.

Our trips are supervised by experienced and passionate local guides who will guide you through the trails, sharing with you their knowledge of hiking and their love for nature. They will be there to help you fully enjoy your activities.

In conclusion, a hiking trip in Provence-Côte d'Azur promises an enriching and memorable experience for outdoor and nature lovers. Paths abound in this magnificent region, offering breathtaking views and exceptional biodiversity. The numerous natural parks such as the Calanques National Park, the Sainte-Baume Regional Natural Park and the Mercantour National Park offer endless hiking possibilities, suitable for all levels of experience.

Beyond the natural beauty, a stay in Provence-Côte d'Azur also allows you to discover the history, culture and gastronomy of the country. Historical sites such as the Roman remains of Arles and Orange, the hilltop villages of the Luberon or even lively cities like Marseille and Nice offer unique cultural enrichment.

The advantages of a hiking holiday in Provence-Côte d'Azur are numerous, including favorable weather, with abundant sunshine all year round, quality accommodation, numerous marked and maintained trails, as well as a variety of landscapes to discover, ranging from rugged mountains to Mediterranean beaches.

In short, a hiking trip in Provence-Côte d'Azur offers the opportunity to recharge your batteries in the great outdoors, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, discover a rich culture and taste tasty cuisine. Whether for nature lovers, altitude enthusiasts or travelers looking for authentic experiences, Provence-Côte d'Azur is an unmissable destination, offering endless possibilities for exploration and discovery.

We offer you a selection of hikes suitable for all levels and all desires. Whether you are a beginner or a trekking enthusiast, whether you prefer a day hike or a trek lasting several days, you will find the activities that suit you in Provence-Côte d'Azur.

So don't wait any longer, put on your hiking shoes and set off on a trip to discover the wonders of Provence-Côte d'Azur. Let yourself be seduced by the richness of its heritage, while enjoying a sporting activity that will recharge your batteries wonderfully.

To plan your tour, you will find our discovery and hiking trips below.