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walking |
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self guided |
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| A walk through Van Gogh's Provence |
Van Gogh arrived here in the late 19th century, and this beautiful region inspired some of his greatest work: the chiseled teeth of the Alpilles mountains that soar high above the Rhône Valley, the sunflower fields, the piercing Provençal sun that highlights the façades of village homes, the Mistral winds that rhythmically sweep the lone cypress tree. You will follow Van Gogh’s steps into the most secret of the Alpilles landscapes. You will spend time in the artsy town of Saint-Rémy, the spectacular village of Les Baux, and the Roman city of Arles along the way. |
| Day 1 : Saint-Remy-de-Provence
Avignon>Saint-Rémy
Trip starts in Avignon. Transfer from Avignon towards the Alpilles. (20 km, 30 min) Explore the artsy Saint-Rémy de Provence and its environs, the muse of Van Gogh’s paintbrush. Head into the sunlit hills to discover the remains of the Roman town of Glanum. Market on Wednesdays. Dinner and night in Saint Rémy.
Day 2 : Eastern valleys and crests
Saint-Rémy>St Paul de Mausole>La Caume>Saint Rémy
- Walking time about 5 hours - +550m/-550m
Walk from Saint Rémy into the Alpilles hills, then along the fabulously panoramic ridge-line. Along the way, take the time to visit the Saint-Paul de Mausole monastery, where Van Gogh spent over a year, creating over 150 paintings, and some of his best work. Dinner and night in Saint Rémy.
Day 3 : From the Roman ruins to the Val d’Enfer
Saint-Rémy>Péiroou>Baumeyrane>Val d'Enfer>Les Baux de Provence
- Walking time about 4 hours - +270m/-100m
Today’s scenic forestry path hovers high above the valley, giving you spectacular views of the hills to the north and the Mediterranean Sea to the south. You descend through the sculpted limestone “valley of hell” towards the perched village of Les Baux de Provence: its homes packed tightly and defiantly on top of the cragged rock, earning its listing as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Dinner and night in the Baux de Provence.
Day 4 : Vineyards and olives trees of the Baux Valley
Les Baux>Maussane>Les Baux
- walking time about 4h - +250m/-250m
A circular walk for you to admire the renowned silvery-green olive groves, and through the village of Maussane (market on Thursday). Visit the famed 17th century Cornille mill where you can taste one of Provence’s best olive oils, or try a tapenade at Jean Martin. Back to les Baux along cypress lines and vineyards. Dinner and night in the Baux de Provence.
Day 5 : Crests and valley’s of Saint Gabriel
Les Baux de Provence>Les Traversières>Chapelle St Gabriel>Arles
- walking time about 5 hours - +150m/-350m
Head westward on the ridge path, with outstanding views of Mont Ventoux, the Montagnette and the Rhône Valley, all the way to the very end of the Alpilles range; descend through hills and pine forests to the 12th century Romanesque Saint Gabriel Chapel. Afterwards, a short transfer to Arles (10 km, 15 min) in the heart of the town to explore Van Gogh’s second home, and discover the treasures of the city’s Romanesque center! Market on Saturdays. End of the trip.
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| Included |
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- 4 nights double occupancy with private facilities
- 4 breakfasts, 4 dinners
- day 1: transfer by taxi from Avignon to St Rémy de Provence
- day 5: transfer by taxi from the end of your walk to Arles
- Luggage transfers days 2 to 5
- Our Road Book with detailed walking itineraries and a map.
Not included
Lunches, entrance fees into museums, insurance, drinks, items of personal nature
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| Hotels |
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| Sous les Figuiers |
A small and charming hotel, in a quiet area, steps from the historic centre of Saint Rémy de Provence. Entirely renovated, most of the 13 rooms have a terrace leading to a lovely garden shaded by centuries-old fig trees. Have a savoury breakfast on the terrace and relax next to the swimming pool. |
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| Le Mas d'Aigret |
Hidden in the heart of the Alpilles mountains, with an exceptional view of the medieval fortress of Les Baux and its surrounding olive groves. 15 rooms set in a centuries-old building, harmoniously restored with sophistication and taste. Refined Provençal cuisine in a breathtaking setting. Swimming pool in the garden. |
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