Walking in Western Provence

Wanderlust in Western Provence

Western Provence, a region of sun-drenched landscapes, historic villages, and fragrant lavender fields, is a fantastic destination for walkers.

Use our guidebook to walking in Western Provence to explore the diverse terrain of the region, ranging from rolling hills to dramatic mountains.

Below is a selection of our favourite walks.

Circuit around Buoux (Walk 4)

Approaching Séguin, a beautiful limestone edge suddenly appears on your left, on the far side of the Aigue-Brun Valley. This walk takes you along the top of the edge and then to a sunny plateau.

From here descend back into the valley beneath the slender tower of St-Symphorien and the ruins of the Fort de Buoux.

Dentelles de Montmirail (Walk 6)

One of the most exquisite walks you will ever take, anywhere. This magnificent hike leads you up, over and between the Dentelles and their glistening vineyards.

There are splendid views to Mont Ventoux.

Pont du Gard (Walk 7)

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Pont du Gard is a colossal work of art. Admire it from all angles, and in different lights.

Plan to devote a full day to this beautiful and varied five-star walk.

Take a long break on the banks of the Gardon – an idyllic picnic spot where you can paddle or swim. Also spend some time at the fascinating visitors’ centre.

Circuit to the Cascades du Sautadet (Walk 9)

This woodland walk, with an optional swim at the end, is ideal for a warm day. Much of the route is in deep shade, on leaf-soft, sunken footpaths, before emerging in vineyards.

The 13th-century arched bridge at La Roque is a beauty, and the village worth a visit.

But without doubt it is the splendid maze of waterfalls the Cèze has cut into the limestone rock at the Cascades du Sautadet that will stay in your memory.

Barbentane and St-Michel-de-Frigolet (Walk 11)

The plain below La Montagnette is a pocket-sized mountain astride the Rhône. It is the setting for a delightful walk through woodlands and beside flower-filled olive groves, with the option of a visit to the abbey of St-Michel-deFrigolet and the charming village of Barbentane with its exquisite château.

St-Remy and Les Baux-des-Provence (Walk 12)

This delightful ridge walk is probably the most popular in the Alpilles, and deservedly so. It’s not too long or too steep, and it leads from a gorgeous lake to one of the most famous beauty spots in France, the magnificently-sited citadel of Les Baux.

Les Antiques and Glanum are close to the lake where the walk begins and ends, so plan to spend the whole day in this area.

Montpellier-le-Vieux (Walk 19)

Montpellier-le-Vieux is a ruiniform chaos writ large. It’s the largest in Europe and since 2011 a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our suggested walk takes in four of the five different routes (waymarked on the ground).

The plan you get on arrival suggests six other routes. Pack a picnic and plan to spend at least half a day enjoying the rock formations.

There are also splendid woodlands and luxuriant displays of mosses, ferns and wild flowers in spring.

Roc des Hourtous (Walk 21)

One of the most spectacular walks in the Tarn, this is an ideal day’s outing. Fortunately there is plenty of shade, so the walk is possible even at the height of summer.

The views from the top are among the finest in the valley. The less energetic can see the best of the sights in the Short walks but, while it’s easier on the legs and lungs, the drive up to Rieisse (via ten hairpin bends) is not for the faint-hearted!

The best time of year for walking in Western Provence

The best time to visit Western Provence for walking is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). The weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller.

However, summer (June-August) can be a great time to visit for those who enjoy warm weather and swimming.

Getting around the region

Renting a car is the most flexible way to explore Western Provence. It allows you to reach remote areas and discover hidden gems.

The region is well-connected by train to other cities in France. Lines run from major cities like Paris and Marseille to smaller towns like Avignon and Aix-en-Provence.

Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around, especially for shorter journeys.

Western Provence offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. With its diverse range of walking trails, it’s the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Our guidebook to walking in Western Provence, will ensure a memorable walking adventure in this enchanting region.