the best walks on traditional trails
Discover the classic Provencal experience reaching back to the time when Van Gogh and his contemporaries were seduced by its irresistible light and landscape. Explore Les Alpilles near Arles and St Remy, the Luberon's world of perched villages, and the hillside vineyards and limestone pinnacles of the Northern Vaucluse. Take the best walks in all three regions, or any combination you prefer.
Walk through the magical countryside of Van Gogh's Olive Trees and Wheat Field With Cypresses around medieval Les Baux and Roman Glanum. Stroll along the narrow, medieval calades of Gordes. Take a lavender walk to the 13th century Abbey de Senanque. Attend a summer concert in Lacoste's lofty chateau. See why Peter Mayle fell in love with Bonnieux and Menerbes. Hike the ridges and valleys of the Dentelles de Montmirail national park and explore Roman-medieval Vaison la Romaine and its great Provencal market.
Enjoy the cultural and historical heritage of two millenia along the way and a depth of culinary experiences from traditional daubes Provencal to le fooding's Asian-French fusion trends in the best Provencal bistros and gourmet restaurants. Taste lots of wine.
Use this itinerary, custom designed for a client, to inspire yours. Start on any day. Walk for as many days as you like. On your own time, at your own pace.
| Day 1 Arrival in Les Alpilles | |
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Arrive at your superior Chambres d'Hotes near St. Remy, hometown of the classic 19th century writer, Frederic Mistral. More recent summer residents include the Princess of Monaco, surely drawn in part by Joel Durand, one of France's top artisanal chocolatiers. Relax for the rest of the afternoon or stroll through town. |
| Day 2 Les Baux Circular Walk Distance: 12 miles Difficulty: Moderate |
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From enchanting, fortified Les Baux walk along the crest of the Les Alpilles range and down to Roman Glanum. Continue on to St. Paul de Mausole, the asylum where Van Gogh had his most prolific and disturbing year. See where he painted Starry Night and Cornfield and Cypress Trees to soothe his state of mind. Return to Les Baux and explore the village at leisure. |
| Day 3 Bonnieux - Lacoste Circular Walk Distance: 9 miles Difficulty: Easy to Moderate |
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Transfer this morning to the nearby Luberon, heart of the Parisians' love affair with Provence. Walk from pretty, perched Bonnieux and aim for the lofty village of Lacoste and the notorious Marquis de Sade's chateau, now a performing arts center where a world class performance of Così Fan Tutte is not unheard of. Return to Bonnieux via the Luberon National Park. |
| Day 4 Gordes - Abbey de Senanque Distance: 8 miles Difficulty: Moderate |
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Walk from Gordes, the most picturesque perched village in Provence along a trail with a dazzling view of the entire Luberon, and soon its only you and the rosemary. Follow a remote lavender valley to the 13th century Abbey de Senanque. Wander back to Gordes and explore the village. Visit a 5th century olive press and Roussillon after your walk. |
| Day 5 Dentelles de Montmirail Circular Walk Distance: 8 miles Difficulty: Moderate |
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Transfer to the perched wine village of Gigondas at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail mountains. A short climb leads between two ridges with sweeping views of vineyards and towering Mt. Ventoux. Roman legions on rest and recreation planted the first vines here. Taste at Domaine Cassan and circle back to Gigondas and more tastings to come. |
| Day 6 Gigondas - Vaison la Romaine Distance: 8 miles Difficulty: Moderate |
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A long, rewarding walk takes you to the ancient market town of Vaison La Romaine with a break for a gourmet lunch in the delectable perched village of Seguret. The day is a rich mosaic of hills and vales, views, and always the vineyards. Unwind in Roman-medieval Vaison before returning by private car to Gigondas. |
| Day 7 Departure from Provence |
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After breakfast it's a bientot and time to head for home. |
7 days, 6 nights
Les Alpilles, Luberon, Northern Vaucluse
best time April to October
Walks
five walks, easy and moderate,
up to 12 miles per day,
shorter and longer options;
comprehensive self-guidance
package; in-person briefing
Where You'll Stay
Classic: charming B&Bs
and small family run hotels
Superior: high end B&Bs
and superior hotels
Deluxe: top country house hotels
Mix choices if you prefer
Field Support
In-person briefing on arrival; English speaking background support throughout the trip; optional GPS support
Pricing
(per person double occupancy)
Classic: from $1,477
Superior: from $1,792
Deluxe: inquire
indicative prices - actual quotes
may vary; mixing accom. choices also varies price
single supplement - inquire
Included
• all accommodation
• all baggage transfers
• all breakfasts
• briefing on arrival
• comprehensive Trip Kit including all official IGN maps, Trail Guides, and other guidance material
• any transportation except
for transfers if indicated
• meals/picnics other than breakfasts
• any form of insurance