traditional Provencal trails, stunning coastal walks
For lovers of the traditional Provencal countryside and coastal walking, this opportunity provides the best of both worlds. Sample exquisite Provencal walks in the Luberon centered around Bonnieux, and the most spectacular walks along the Mediterranean in the Calanques National Park between Marseille and the small fishing port of Cassis. Or, you can also choose to walk entirely by the sea.
The calanques are deep, narrow fjord-like inlets that lead to small, secluded beaches along dramatic limestone cliffs. Motorized vehicles are excluded and there are no paved roads. Fellow walkers, rock climbers, and the occasional mountain bikers are your only companions here.
There's plenty of scope for post walk activities, too. Enjoy the Luberon's perched villages, its full range of dining options and its sophisticated boutique and gallery scene. Plan on coastal wine tasting - Cassis is a prime wine region, famous for its whites. Great reds come from nearby scenic Bandol.
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 and Transfer to the Luberon | |
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Arrive in the Luberon and settle into your superior B&B, an ancient farmhouse among the vines. We'll meet with you at your B&B to brief you on your upcoming walks, discuss your trip details and answer any questions you may have. The rest of the day is free to explore a nearby village, and perhaps a wine estate or two. |
| Day 2 Bonnieux - Foret des Cedres Circular Walk Distance: 9 miles Difficulty: Moderate |
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Walk from Bonnieux today, up onto the ridge of the Petit Luberon range. Enjoy a fine view all the way to Cezanne's Mont Ste Victoire. Walk through a massive forest of North African cedars, the legacy of a 19th century reforestation eco-project. Explore the perched village of Lacoste. After your walk discover Gordes, learn about lavender and visit an olive oil mill. |
| Day 3 Sivergues - Fort de Buoux Circular Walk Distance: 9 miles Difficulty: Moderate |
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Start this wilderness walk from the hamlet of Sivergues, a remote sanctuary established during the 16th century wars of religion. Scale the Grand Luberon amidst sweeping vistas. Descend to explore ruined medieval Fort de Buoux, built for life and death defence rather than aristocratic show. Circle back to Sivergues, visit the local goat cheese farm, then head for the Mediterranean fishing village of Cassis for the night. |
| Day 4 Cassis - Calanques Circular Walk Distance: 8 miles Difficulty: Moderate |
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Walk in the Calanques National Park along the coast toward Marseille to the most spectacular fjord-like inlet, the Calanque d'en Vau, and beyond. Track the sea on well established paths along dramatic coastal cliffs and descend to secluded beaches. Choose from several tracks to suit your skills and endurance. Circle back to magnifique views of Cap Canaille. Taste wine in Bandol before dinner. |
| Day 5 Calanque de Sugiton Circular Walk Distance: 7 miles Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging |
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Explore the national park's heart today on a walk to the calanques of Sugiton and Morgiou. A series of peninsular cliffs reach into the sea to provide an ever changing tableau of ragged, wild limestone ridges and sheer rock faces dropping into waters that give the Cote d'Azur its name. Various tracks are available to suit your personal hiking preferences. Have bouillabaisse tonight with a chilled bottle of Cassis. |
| Day 6 Departure from Provence | |
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Enjoy breakfast overlooking the sea before you pack your walking gear and head for home with your memories. |
6 days, 5 nights
Luberon, Coastal Provence,
best time for coastal walks:
April-May and mid-September-October (brush fire risk restrictions from July to mid-September)
Walks
four walks, moderate to
challenging,
up to 9 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 $1,260
Superior: from $1,522
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