Provence, a spectacular region in south eastern France, is known for its diverse landscapes, surrounded by lavender fields, pine forests, vineyards, and olive groves. It is also a hikers paradise, offering relaxed coastal paths to challenging mountain trails.
Whether you love outdoor hiking or you want to explore the local countryside, there is a trail for every ability. At Cooking Classes in Provence, we have broken them into simple categories, enabling you to find the best hikes in Provence based on your abilities and preferences:
Simple Hikes
Our simple hike recommendation is ideal for those wanting to take a relaxing stroll, while enjoying the spectacular Provençal views:
Foret de Cedres in Luberon
This gentle five kilometre loop hike takes you through the cedar forest, with well-marked paths, and simple navigation. It starts at a high point with spectacular views of the Luberon valley. It offers a shaded walk, making it ideal for families. It also offers complimentary parking at the starting point.
Canal Walk in Alpilles
This pleasant seven kilometre hike follows the canals in St-Remy with shaded paths. You will walk through vineyards and olive groves on a picturesque route with easy terrain. This is also an ideal hike for families visiting Provence.
Moderate Hikes
Our moderate hike recommendation is twelve kilometres, offering spectacular scenery and diverse terrains, best suited for keen walkers and hikers:
Jean Hiking Trail – The Caisse des Jean
This moderately challenging hike takes approximately five hours to complete, spanning over twelve kilometres with spectacular scenery and a diverse terrain. It starts in a forest with ample shade and ascends through switchbacks that can be quite demanding. Enjoy a host of features along with way including a fabulous waterfall. The waterfall is the ideal spot to take a break. Located just under the summit, you can enjoy some of the most amazing views. There is ample parking nearby, though it does get full on weekends and holidays.
Difficult Hikes
Our difficult hikes recommendations are best suited for regular hikers with moderate fitness, as they can be challenging:
Gorges de Regalon in Luberon
This nine kilometre loop hike offers narrow gorges, rocky paths, and a mix of terrain, offering an ideal choice for the adventurous hiker. It is great in the early morning or late afternoon. It includes tight passages, along with rocky sections with open areas to enjoy the spectacular Luberon Valley views. You will find complimentary parking at the entrance to the gorge.
Abbaye de Senanque a Gordes in Luberon
This hike is a twelve kilometre round trip with spectacular lavender field views, a highlight during blooming season. You will be welcomed with historical structured along the route with spectacular Luberon Valley views. This hike is ideal for those adventurous hikers with moderate fitness, that don’t mind some elevation. There is paid parking on-site.
Exceptionally Difficult Hikes
These hikes are recommended for those that hike regularly with a high level of fitness:
GR6 in Alpilles
This is a long-distance hike of approximately thirty kilometres through the spectacular Alpilles mountain range. It has challenging terrain with steep ascents and descents. While the trail is well-marked, it is recommended to start as early as possible to avoid the afternoon heat as you near the end. You will be taken through a variety of landscapes, enjoying spectacular views. Parking is available on site.
Mont Ventoux Summit Trail
This is a very demanding twenty one kilometre loop trail that will take you to the summit of the “Giant of Provence.” It offers exposed terrain with high elevations, requiring high levels of stamina and fitness. Again, we recommend starting as early as possible. Note, the ascent can be very challenging, but the views are well worth the effort. Parking is available on-site.
Conclusion
Exploring the diverse terrains in Provence is an excellent way to explore the countryside, soak up the history, and enjoy the spectacular views. Whether you are looking for a leisurely walk or a high endurance hike, Provence does not disappoint. We, at Cooking Classes in Provence, hope this guide is helpful and that you have a great hiking experience in Provence. Get in touch with Cooking Classes in Provence to arrange a private in-home cooking class where you can further explores the wonders of Provence in the comfort of your own home or holiday home.
