Hiking in Provence

About : Hiking in Provence

Hiking in Provence is a treat for the senses, combining rugged mountains and sea cliffs with tranquil meadows of lavender and olive groves. Keen hikers can join guided day-long tours, take a self-guided tour in some of the less challenging regions or pay for a dedicated walking holiday, which can often include accommodation and breakfast.

Mountain hiking in Provence

For more experienced hikers, ascending Mont Ventoux makes an exciting holiday event in Provence. Known as the 'Giant of Provence', the mountain is the largest in the region and is among the most gruelling stretches of the Tour de France cycling race. Weather conditions on Mont Ventoux make the climb even more testing for hikers, as winds of up to 320 km/h have been recorded at the summit. The Lubéron valley further south, features less challenging topography, as well as opportunities to visit leafy canyons and mediaeval villages such as Lacoste, where the infamous Marquis de Sade lived in the eighteenth century.

Vineyard trails in Provence

The wine growers' village of Vacqueyras is an excellent place to read up on the history and cultivation of wine grapes and hiking between the vines. The Vacqueyras vineyards feature illustrated signs explaining how climate, soil and grape varieties, and human expertise combine to create some of the tastiest wine in