We propose a hike in the Aix country to discover Sainte-Victoire, a mythic mountain and symbol of Provence, painted by many artists, notably Cézanne.
It is a circular hike starting at the village of Vauvenargues.
The guide will enjoy showing you this exceptional natural space. You will observe various ecosystems on the shady side of Sainte-Victoire, from the piedmont to the crests.
5 hours of exceptional panoramas (flexible duration and price according to your level).
The theme of this circuit is: the biodiversity of Sainte-Victoire.
The Hike:
You will start the hike with the observation of a castle.
This castle, originally Roman, was rebuilt in the 15th century and restored in the 17th century. It is located on a knoll south of the village of Vauvenargues. It was bought by Picasso in 1958, who was buried there in 1973.
You will then start the climb of the shadier side.
After crossing the line of hills separating the valley of Vauvenargues into two small valleys, you will begin the ascent of the shady side of Sainte-Victoire. For at least half an hour, the vegetation consists of dense underbrush made up of Aleppo pines, white oaks, mountain ashes, and Austrian pines. On the ground level, the flora is varied: lavender, valerian, centaurea, columbines, fritillaries, cistus…
You will then continue to the second stage of the shady side.
The slope will become steeper, and trees will become rarer and smaller. Only clumps of white oaks and scotch pines manage to cling to the rocky escarpment. They are few on the crest and are grouped in the small valleys. About 500 m before reaching the crest, the landscape will become more mineral. This change in vegetation is linked to the change in altitude.
The Crests:
A beautiful 360° landscape awaits you! Your effort is thus rewarded.
Several views are offered: the panorama of the Cengle plateau and the village of Saint-Antonin. The vegetation is low, with lawns sprinkled with boxwood and junipers, covered in spring with flowers of many colors. Towards the top of the mountain, Le Bau des Vespres (1011 m) reveals its imposing cliff facing east, 250 m in length and over 100 m in height.
Continuing through the crossing of the Plan de la Crau, an oasis with very green grass, the line of crests tightens, giving the impression of navigating an immense vessel in an ocean of landscapes. As you approach the Croix de Provence, visible for more than an hour, the opening of the Gouffre du Garagai reveals the plain below, leading you to the imposing cross.
And Finally, You Will End the Hike by the Descente des Venturiers:
The descent will begin in the direction of the Prieuré, an old medieval hermitage expanded and restored in the 17th century. After a few turns, the descent will take place on the wide path of the Venturiers.
A magnificent view will be offered of the valley, Lake Bimont, and, in the distance, the Luberon, Ventoux, and the Mountain of Lure. Gradually, tree cover returns, the slope softens, and you will arrive in the valley. You will enjoy superb views while going downhill!
Practical Information:
A roadbook will be provided to indicate where and when to meet.
This is an average difficulty walk with some short steep and/or rocky passages.
For this day:
- You will need good shoes and a good supply of water.
- Plan on a picnic.
Hoped-for Level of the Participant: Expert
Minimum and Maximum Number of Participants: From 6 to 15 people
Number of Kilometers Hiked: 14 km
Duration: 5 hours
Single Rate: 45€
Minimum Age Required: 10
Date of Validity of the Offer :
Year-round
Optional:
The route may be modified according to the desired duration of the hike and your level.
Location:
This theme day will take place in the Aix area.
Lodging:
Not included. You may reserve the lodging of your choice in the vacation rental columns, hotels, and B&Bs.
Food:
Plan on a picnic.
Guide:
Jean-Bernard, tour guide for mountain. He will enjoy sharing with you his love of nature and our magnificent Provençal country.
The Price Includes:
- A travel book
- A 5-hour hike
- The guide
The Price Does Not Include:
- Meals
- Personal expenditures
- Lodging
- Transportation