Hiking - Lands of Haute Provence
In summary
-
Sports
-
Duration7 days
-
LevelIntermediate
-
DestinationProvence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur / Alpes de Haute Provence
-
AgeFrom 12 - 90 years
-
CO₂-Emissions105.72 kg CO2
-
Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Discover a hidden corner of Haute-Provence on a journey where light and serenity reign supreme. This walking trip takes you under a perpetually azure sky, offering exceptional sunshine that enhances the landscapes. Between May and July, let yourself be captivated by the blooming lavender , whose mauve hues contrast with the deep blue of the horizon.
Your journey unfolds between unspoiled nature and authentic heritage. From the panoramic ridges of the Lure mountain to the fragrant paths of the Forcalquier region , each stage is an immersion in local culture. You will progress to the rhythm of the garrigue 's scents and the lilting accent of the South of France.
The exertion gives way to contemplation during your stops in charming villages . Enjoy the welcome shade of the narrow streets and the coolness of the Romanesque chapels , veritable havens of centuries-old stone. This adventure promises total disconnection, combining hiking and the gentle Provençal lifestyle for an unforgettable experience.
The highlights
-
The ease of access from the start of the stay in Manosque
-
Charming hotels and bed and breakfasts
-
Mild climate and guaranteed sunshine
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
Here, we prioritize contemplation and discovery over athletic performance. For your comfort, we take care of everything: your route book guides your steps while we ensure the transfer of your luggage between each stage. You hike with peace of mind, supported by our full logistical and technical assistance.
- Self- guided hiking tour in Haute Provence
- Daily stages: between 10 and 18 km, i.e., 3 to 5 hours of walking per day
- Elevation gain: between 300 and 500 m
- Circuit altitude: between 400 m (Manosque) and 1180 m (Foothills of the Lure Mountain)
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 4h
- Average distance/day: 14 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 426 m
Management
Program
-
Arrival in Manosque
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Your journey begins in Manosque , where you will settle in at the end of the day. Take advantage of these first moments to lose yourself in the narrow streets so beloved by Jean Giono and savor the local way of life. Nestled at the foot of the Luberon hills and watched over by Mont d'Or, this sun-drenched town—with nearly 300 days of sunshine a year—is the perfect introduction to the magic of Haute-Provence.
Day 1 -
Loop around Manosque
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 16 km
- Positive elevation gain 418 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Hike of 16 km / 23 km* - Elevation gain of 420m / 650m* - Estimated duration: 4h/6h*
Starting from your accommodation, this day is dedicated to exploring the hills overlooking the town of Giono. The route highlights the region's natural and architectural heritage: you'll discover the secrets of the local ecosystem at the Maison de la Biodiversité (Biodiversity Center ), then cross the charming village of Saint-Martin-les-Eaux . Between rolling landscapes and ancient stone walls, this loop gently leads you back to Manosque at the end of the route.
Dinner and overnight stay in a 3* hotel or charming guesthouse.
*depending on your accommodation and if you are without a car - for more information, please contact us.
Day 2 -
Walk from Manosque to Forcalquier
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 18 km
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Hike of 18.3km or 20.5km* - Elevation gain of 500m - Estimated duration: 5h/6h*
Head towards Forcalquier! This hike begins with a climb to the Col de la Mort d'Imbert pass, followed by a pleasant walk through the forest. Along the way, you'll stop in the charming villages of Dauphin and Saint-Maime , testaments to the rich medieval past of Haute-Provence. The final kilometers unfold at the pace of lavender fields, on quiet country roads leading to the heart of Forcalquier.
Dinner and overnight stay in a 3* hotel with swimming pool.
*depending on your accommodation and if you are without a car - for more information, please contact us.
Day 3 -
Loop around Forcalquier
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Distance 11 km
- Positive elevation gain 303 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Enjoy the gentle morning air as you explore the hidden corners of Forcalquier before heading to a timeless site: the Rochers des Mourres . True limestone sentinels sculpted by erosion, these geological formations, shaped like giant mushrooms, are fascinating reminders of a vanished sea. A surreal stroll that offers a moment of complete escape in the heart of your travels.
Dinner and overnight stay in a 3* hotel with swimming pool.
Day 4 -
Walk from Forcalquier to Cruis
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 14 km
- Positive elevation gain 428 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Your self-guided tour continues towards Cruis, an authentic stop nestled at the foot of the Lure mountain range. This approximately 4-hour hike is a true mosaic of landscapes: you'll alternate between passing through typical small hamlets, admiring the blue of lavender fields, and exploring the geological formations of the marl. A day of hiking punctuated by spectacular views across the entire region.
Dinner and overnight stay in a charming inn in the heart of the village of Cruis.
Day 5 -
Loop around Cruis
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 10 km
- Positive elevation gain 480 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
For your final day, set off to conquer the Lure mountain . With its pristine limestone cap, it bears a striking resemblance to its famous neighbor, Mont Ventoux. Once at the summit, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama stretching across the entire Haute-Provence region. The "Tour des Jas" trail punctuates your hike with the discovery of old stone sheepfolds, these typical pastoral shelters that tell the story of this wild mountainside.
Dinner and overnight stay in a charming inn in the heart of the village of Cruis.
Day 6 -
Return to Manosque and departure
- Transportation Car - 00h50 - 50km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Your adventure is drawing to a close. We hope this walking immersion in the heart of Haute-Provence has allowed you to grasp the soul of this "land of light" that inspired the work of Jean Giono. You leave with memories imbued with the sunshine of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. After a final breakfast, a taxi shuttle (approximately 50 minutes) will take you back to Manosque, where you can retrieve your vehicle or other transport (train, bus).
Day 7
Accommodation
High above Manosque, you'll discover a place to unpack your bags. More than just a hotel, it's a welcoming haven where you can savor the simple pleasures of Haute Provence. This establishment offers a harmonious blend of the charm of a Provençal country house and the modern amenities you'll need to fully enjoy your stay.
This charming hotel is comfortably housed within the imposing walls of an 18th-century farmhouse. A warm and attentive family team welcomes you to share the understated charm of this residence, nestled in the heart of a 7-hectare estate of meadows and hills.
From its hilltop perch, surrounded by remarkable, centuries-old trees, the estate overlooks the Valensole Plateau to the east, the Luberon Massif to the south, and the iconic Montagne de Lure to the north… with a glimpse of the Forcalquier Citadel to the west. A few steps along the small path are all it takes for the majestic Luberon to reveal itself. Forcalquier and the small village of Niozelles are just a stone's throw away.
Access
Go to the starting point
- TER: SNCF station “Manosque – Gréoux-les-Bains”.
- TGV: Aix-en-Provence station then TER shuttles
- A51 motorway, exit 18 (Manosque)
Price details
The price includes
- 6 half-board stays in 3-star hotels or guesthouses
- Luggage transport
- Return transfer
- Travel file via the navigation app
- logistical and technical assistance
The price does not include
- Drinks and extras
- Possible visits
- Round trip from your home to the first accommodation on the route
Options
- Single person option : CHF91.48 / unit
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
For French citizens:
Valid national identity card (CNI): for all participants, including children.
For foreign nationals:
Valid national identity card or passport: depending on your country of origin.
Visa: if necessary, depending on your nationality and the length of your stay.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- Bath towel: preferably quick-drying.
- Sunglasses: with UV protection.
- Daypack (20-30 L): for carrying your daily essentials.
- Water bottle or hydration pack: with a capacity of at least 1.5 L.
- Sunscreen: high SPF.
- Lip balm: with sun protection.
- Headlamp or torch: with spare batteries.
- First aid kit: with bandages, disinfectant, etc.
- Waterproof bag: to protect your belongings during water sports activities.
Clothing to bring
- Breathable T-shirts (ideally made of technical material): to stay dry during physical activities.
- Lightweight fleece jackets or sweatshirts: for cool mornings or evenings.
- Waterproof windproof jacket: essential in case of rain or wind.
- Hiking pants (avoid jeans): comfortable and allow for movement.
- Shorts or bermudas: for hot days.
- Spare clothes: enough for the duration of the stay.
- Hiking shoes: with good grip for varied trails.
- Hiking sandals or water shoes: for water activities such as canoeing and kayaking.
- Light shoes or flip-flops: for relaxing moments in accommodation.
- Cap or hat: to protect oneself from the sun.
- Swimsuit: for swimming in rivers or pools.
- Hiking socks: comfortable and breathable.
