Walking in Haute Provence
8 Days Starting in St Andre-Les-Alpes, France and ending in Aix en Provence, France
Visiting: St Andre-les-Alpes, Castellane, Gorges du Verdon, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Riez, Aix en Provence, Nice
Tour operator:
Tour code:
JPR
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of Haute Provence, from the Southern Alps to the classic charm of Provence. This self-guided walking tour takes you through the breathtaking Canyon du Verdon, across mountains, and into fragrant lavender fields. Explore historic Aix en Provence and enjoy the rustic beauty of ancient villages and dramatic gorges. Accommodation includes 7 nights in charming 2* and 3* hotels and a Chambre d’hotes, with 7 breakfasts and 4 dinners provided. Luggage transfers, route notes, maps, and emergency support ensure a seamless adventure. Discover the essence of Provence on foot, with each day offering new vistas and experiences.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive St Andre-Les-Alpes
Location: St Andre-les-Alpes
Accommodation Name: 2* hotel or gite-hotel
Make your way to St. Andre-Les-Alpes, a small village set between forested hills and the Lac de Castillon. There are a couple of narrow streets to explore and the church displays some plaques remembering Resistance fighters from the area. There are a couple of bars to relax and enjoy a cool drink. Parapente (paragliding) is quite popular in this area, they jump off the ridges around the town and land on a flat area by the lake. The centre of the old village is worth exploring; there is a small street market on Saturday mornings.
Accommodation:Our accommodation is in a 2* hotel or gite-hotel offering simple rooms with ensuite facilities situated above the village.
Day 2 : St. Andre To Castellane - 19.3 Km/ 12 Miles, 6 H
Location: Castellane
Accommodation Name: 2* hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Follow narrow trails over the hills high above the western side of the Lac de Castillon. Along the way, in spring, the intense yellow flowers and honeyed scent of wild broom and rosemary, contrast with the deep green shades and resinous air of the pine forest. You are greeted by the stunning outcrop of Notre Dame de Roche above Castellane; you should have plenty of time before dinner to climb up to the little chapel there and take in the sunset. Approx ascent: 600m /descent:750m
Accommodation: Our 2* hotel overlooks the main square of the historic mountain town, right on the ‘Route Napoleon’, all rooms are ensuite. There is a fine Provencal large windowed restaurant serving good evening meals and many people eat out on the terrace.
Day 3 : Castellane To Point Sublime (Rougon) - 18.8 Km/11.7 Miles, 6 H
Location: Castellane
Accommodation Name: 2* hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
The well waymarked GR4 long distance trail from Castellane follows an ancient Roman route high up on the side of the deep winding Verdon Valley. Ancient villages, with their tightly clustered ochre-walled houses, seem to grow naturally out of the rugged landscape. There is a tiny village called Chasteuil, which maybe a good place for a picnic, before heading off over the high limestone moors and pastures before dropping down to Rougon and thence to Point Sublime.
Approx ascent: 650m /descent:500m
Accommodation: This is the only hotel in the area, a rather neo Victorian establishment. This 2* hotel is situated above the Verdon and across from the vertical cleft in the limestone plateau that marks the entrance to the gorge. Good rustic food is the norm, there is a nice terrace bar and there is a pleasing old-fashioned air about the place. All rooms are ensuite.
During the high season it may be necessary to spend two nights in La Palud and do the gorge walk with a taxi transfer back to Point Sublime. Please note that the hotel restaurant is closed on Wednesday evenings. If you happen to be at the hotel on a Wednesday, we will organise for a “cold plate” meal to be left for you in the lounge.
Day 4 : Point Sublime To La Palud - 13.7 Km/8.5 Miles, 6 H Or 21.5 Km/13.3 Miles, 8 H
Location: Gorges du Verdon
Accommodation Name: 2* modern hotel
Today you tackle the traverse of the famous Gorges du Verdon, France's Grand Canyon. High up on the towering red and grey limestone walls of the gorge you may even spot rock climbers pitting their skill against the force of gravity. The gorge is quite challenging for hikers too, as there are a number of metal ladders to negotiate along the way. The walking is not as daunting as it may sound and only a modest head for heights and an ability to walk on rocky paths is required. Halfway along is a delightful spot to picnic by the river. Then there is a steep, sweaty climb up to La Maline, where from the balcony of the gite there you can in season enjoy an overview of the gorge before debating whether to walk the last section on road to La Palud, or take a taxi. Approx ascent: 750m /descent: 630m
In case the gorge is closed there is another walk you can do to the beautiful viewpoint at Rancoumas, overlooking the gorge and the surrounding mountains. The return walk takes between 3 to 5 hours (returning to Point Sublime). Ascent gain around 500m. 9 km/5.5 miles. In that case you will be collected after your walk and transferred with your baggage to La Palud.
Accommodation: Our 2* modern hotel sits inside the ancient centre of the village. Its 20 spacious rooms have full ensuite facilities. The cuisine is usually of a high standard – their buffet is particularly good. *Note that on Thursdays their restaurant is closed and as such we will book you on bed & breakfast base and a discount will be added to your invoice.
Day 5 : La Palud To Moustiers - 17.2Km/10.7 Miles, 6.5 H
Location: Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
Accommodation Name: 2* hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
After a stiff ascent above La Palud through some interesting limestone scenery and shady forests, this walk follows a high forested ridge overlooking the turquoise-blue Lac de Ste. Croix, before making a steep descent and gradual climb to the little town of Moustiers Ste. Marie. This is clustered at the foot of towering crags and long famous for its ceramics and waters. The walking is dramatic, wild and beautiful and on the descent, you wind through giant limestone crags and rock towers.
Approx ascent: 550m /descent: 800m
Accommodation: Our comfortable small 2* hotel was originally a mediaeval building centrally situated in this popular village overlooking a series of waterfalls. It has an outside restaurant terrace where you can relax over dinner.
Day 6 : Moustiers To Riez - 21 Km/13 Miles, 6 H
Location: Riez
Accommodation Name: Chambre d’hotes
This morning you walk abruptly up over the scarp slope and out of the Provencal Alps into a new landscape: the broad vistas and immense arching skies of the Plateau de Valensole. There are views of the whale-backed peak of Mont Ventoux, familiar to Tour de France cyclists. The plateau is cultivated for cereals, lavender (at its best in July) and truffles (hidden underground between rows of specially planted Downey Oaks). Descend to the village of Roumoules, perhaps have your picnic in the square under the plane trees. Next there is a gentle climb along a woody ridge and then a short steepish descent down to the town of Riez, where the columns of a Roman temple remind you of its historic past. After a Pastis, head into the town centre to your Chambre d’hotes. Approx ascent: 400m /descent: 550m
Accommodation: This 17th century townhouse converted to a Chambre d'hotes is in a quiet location. It has a rustic elegance, there is a mixture of old and new features and the rooms (all ensuite) are much commented on. A superb place to unwind, it is also in a handy location for restaurants, lavender oil shops and for visiting the Roman columns.
Day 7 : Riez, Transfer To Aix En Provence
Location: Aix en Provence
Accommodation Name: 3* hotel
After breakfast you will be transported to Manosque (included) to take a late morning train to Aix en Provence. The train takes about 50 minutes and costs approx 15 Euros (not included). This is a beautiful artistic city with a profusion of fountains, cafes spilling onto the streets, interesting architecture including St. Sauveur’s Cathedral with its beautiful triptych of ‘The Burning Bush’ by Nicholas Fromant (1476) and nearby there is the Cezanne Museum. It is an easy city to walk around and the flower and fruit markets on Saturdays are exceptional. Excellent restaurants can be found in the maze of backstreets, representing Provence, France and its colonial backwash.
Accommodation: We offer a modern 3* hotel near the centre of Aix en Provence.
All the rooms are ensuite.
Day 8 : Arrangements End After Breakfast
Location: Nice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tour ends after breakfast. The hotel is situated a 15 minute walk from the coach /bus station for Nice or Marseilles.
What's Included
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7 breakfasts, 4 dinners
Enjoy 7 breakfasts and 4 dinners during your stay.
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7 nights accommodation on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities where available
Stay for 7 nights in hotels or guesthouses with twin share rooms and ensuite facilities where available.
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Luggage transfer except between Riez and Aix en Provence
Luggage transfer is provided except between Riez and Aix en Provence, where you will take it with you on the train.
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Information pack including route notes & maps
Receive an information pack that includes route notes and maps.
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Emergency hotline
Access to an emergency hotline for assistance during your trip.
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GPX files of the walks will be emailed to you
GPX files of the walks will be emailed to you for navigation.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided in 2*, 3* hotels and 1 Chambre d’hotes.
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Transfer to Manosque
Transfer to Manosque is included for the train to Aix en Provence.
What's Not Included
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3 dinners, lunches & beverages
3 dinners, lunches, and beverages are not included.
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Entrance fees
Entrance fees to attractions are not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
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Travel to the start and from the end point of the trip
Travel to the start and from the end point of the trip is not included.
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls are not included.
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Unscheduled transfers
Unscheduled transfers required during the trip are not included.
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Guide
This is a self-guided walking holiday; a guide is not included.
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Single room supplement
A supplement will apply if you are traveling solo or book a single room.
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Excess luggage
Excess luggage is not included.
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Train fare from Manosque to Aix en Provence
The train fare from Manosque to Aix en Provence is not included and costs approximately 15 Euros.
Accommodation
7 nights hotels / guesthouses. Accommodation is in 2*, 3* hotels and 1 Chambre d’hotes. The hotels described are our usual choice of accommodation, however if these are not available then alternatives are used and if these are of a different standard you will be informed at the time of booking. Baths/showers: Many rooms with ensuite/private facilities have a shower rather than a bath, usually because of limited space. Some hotels/guesthouses may however have a separate room in the house where a bath is available to guests.
Grading
(grade 4) This is a very subjective matter on this tour. Walkers' Britain walking grades presume a certain standard common to similar tours and an individual’s perception of their own fitness in relation to a grading will vary. The walking on this tour is variously: moderate (Grade 4) and quite challenging. A reasonable level of fitness, a reasonable head for heights and an ability to cope on rocky paths is required for the gorge and several other days. You need good boots throughout the tour: The trails are generally good, but on occasion there are steep or winding sections of loose limestone shingle. Carry plenty of drinking water and adequate protection against the sun, including a sun hat. There are steep ascents/descents sometimes in hot weather. You will need to take care walking on this tour. Day stages: In the region of 14km to 20km per day with average altitude gains of 550m. 5 to 8 hours walking per day for most people. Slow walkers will take longer.
Mode of Transport
Luggage transfer is provided except between Riez and Aix en Provence, where you take it with you on the train. After breakfast, you will be transported to Manosque to take a late morning train to Aix en Provence.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides 7 nights of accommodation in 2* and 3* hotels, as well as one Chambre d’hotes. The hotels typically offer ensuite/private facilities, although some may have shared bath facilities due to limited space. If the usual hotels are not available, alternatives will be used, and you will be informed at the time of booking if these are of a different standard.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour package includes 7 breakfasts and 4 dinners. Lunches and beverages are not included.
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Is luggage transfer provided during the tour?
Luggage transfer is provided except between Riez and Aix en Provence, where you will need to take your luggage with you on the train.
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What kind of support is available during the tour?
An emergency hotline is available for support during the tour. Additionally, you will receive an information pack including route notes and maps, and GPX files of the walks will be emailed to you.
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Is this a guided tour?
No, this is a self-guided walking holiday. You will be provided with route notes, maps, and GPX files to navigate the trails on your own.
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What is the difficulty level of the walks on this tour?
The tour is graded as moderate to quite challenging (Grade 4). A reasonable level of fitness, a head for heights, and the ability to walk on rocky paths are required. The trails are generally good but can include steep or winding sections with loose limestone shingle. Daily walks range from 14km to 20km with altitude gains of around 550m, taking 5 to 8 hours per day for most people.
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What should I bring for the walks?
You will need good boots, plenty of drinking water, and adequate protection against the sun, including a sun hat. The walks can include steep ascents and descents, sometimes in hot weather, so it is important to be well-prepared.
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What happens if the gorge is closed on the day of the walk?
If the gorge is closed, there is an alternative walk to the beautiful viewpoint at Rancoumas, overlooking the gorge and surrounding mountains. This return walk takes between 3 to 5 hours, with an ascent gain of around 500m. You will be collected after the walk and transferred with your baggage to La Palud.
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Are there any additional costs not included in the tour package?
Yes, additional costs not included in the tour package are travel insurance, travel to the start and from the end point of the trip, personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls, unscheduled transfers required during the trip, and a supplement if you are traveling solo or book a single room. Excess luggage is also not included.
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Self-guided holidays - inclusions
We have designed our self guided walking and cycling tours to include a number of elements to help you enjoy your holiday more, while leaving out some things to give you more freedom to tailor the trip to your needs and interests. Refer to the Trip Notes for more information on the specific inclusions for each trip. What’s included: - Detailed Route Notes - Accommodation - Luggage transfers - Any scheduled transfers as per Trip Notes - Emergency support - Some meals (mostly breakfasts) What’s NOT included: - Transport to/from start/finish points - Most meals - Any entrance/park fees - Travel insurance - Personal expenses along the way - Unscheduled transfers required during the trip
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Trip Grading & Preparation
Match your level of fitness & requirements Please read this information carefully to find out which grade is most suited to your level of fitness and requirements. To make the most of your Walkers' Britain holiday it is essential and your responsibility to choose a trip that is well within your capabilities. All our active holidays are graded and clearly marked in each trip description. All mountains have uphill and downhill sections and by definition walking and cycling demand some effort. However all things are relative, and these grades assume that you are a reasonably active person who enjoys walking or cycling. Few trips are extreme and most allow ample time for sightseeing and enjoying the scenery. If in doubt about the grade of any holiday, please contact us for advice or request the tour dossiers, you can also chat with our team about the right travel insurance for you. Grade 1 – Introductory These trips involve walking for four to five hours per day or cycling for 15-50 km per day at a slow but steady pace. You will need a reasonable level of fitness and good health. Suggested Preparation 30 minutes of aerobic-type exercise (either road cycling or jogging), three times a week for three months leading up to your trip. Grade 2 – Introductory to Moderate These trips involve a combination of what is described in our Introductory and Moderate levels. The emphasis is on introductory activity but including several moderate stages. Grade 3 – Moderate These adventures involve walking for up to six hours per day or cycling for up to 65 km per day, at a steady pace. You will need a good level of fitness and be in good health. Suggested Preparation 45 minutes of aerobic-type exercise (road cycling or jogging) three times a week for three months leading up to your trip. Grade 4 – Moderate to Challenging This trip grading involves a combination of what is described in our Moderate and Challenging levels. The emphasis is on moderate activity but including several challenging stages. Grade 5 – Challenging These active holidays involve walking up to nine hours per day in mountainous terrain with steep ascents and descents, pass crossing & alpine weather conditions, or cycling for up to 80 km per day over undulating terrain, with some steep and sustained hills. You will need an excellent level of fitness, be prepared to carry a daypack weighing up to 8 kg and be completely comfortable in adverse weather conditions. Suggested Preparation 1 hour of aerobic-type exercise five times a week for three to six months leading up to your trip. We also recommend regular hill walking with a pack in variable weather conditions or road cycling.
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Route notes
While our tours vary in terms of difficulty, route finding is made simple and convenient with our specially prepared package of maps and route notes. On many of the walks it is easy enough to navigate carefully using the route notes provided with a cursory glance at the map. As holidays reach the higher grades, you will need to take more care and we would expect you to have at least some knowledge of using a compass. Maps for our tours also vary considerably, from up-to-date GPS referenced additions, to old map copies which may still be the only ones obtainable for a particular area. The differences in style, grade and destinations of our tours are features that make them of continual interest and delight to our walkers & cyclists. Each set of route notes can contain the following elements relevant to the route: History and information on the region and the route you are walking. Detailed maps including points of interest and accommodation. Detailed step-by-step descriptions (with pictures) of the route and information on detours/optional additions. Transport timetables and information for getting there and away. Safety information and advice. Contact details of accommodation, transport, local representatives and emergency support. Advice for things to do along the way. Suggestions for dining and self catering.
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How our self-guided holidays work
Self guided walking and cycling holidays offer freedom, independence and choice, allowing you to tailor your holidays in the UK & Europe to your interest and travel style. Our detailed Route Notes will contain all of the information you need to plan how you would like to approach each day, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. As you are not limited by the constraints of group travel, you are free to shorten or lengthen your walk as the terrain permits and can even take a day off, although you may need to travel onto your next accommodation by taxi or public transport in order to do so.
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Low Deposit
Walkers' Britain requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of walkers' britain charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.