Under the silhouette of Mont Ventoux

At 1912m in altitude, Mont Ventoux is Provence’s highest peak. Its remarkable silhouette will paint the backdrop of this scenic and diverse exploration of Provence. The trip starts in Séguret and Gigondas, two medieval villages perched high over the Rhône valley, framed by never-ending seas of reputed vineyards. From Gigondas you approach the Dentelles de Montmirail, a set of jagged limestone teeth that soar high and defiantly over the Rhône Valley: a playground for magnificent walking and scenery. You then charge towards the foot of Mont Ventoux – through orchards and vineyards, with extraordinary panoramas and a great diversity of landscapes.

Day 1 : One of the most beautiful villages in France
Avignon>Séguret
Your walking holiday begins in Avignon, city of the Popes, before a direct transfer to Séguret. Seguret is a village out of a fairy tale, its homes grouped tightly in a few rows and backing up against the sheer rock, a timeless village perched high above the Rhöne Valley. Its tiny cobbled streets are wedged between rows of centuries-old homes, and overlooking a sea of vines. The village is listed among the most beautiful in France. Dinner and night in Séguret.

Day 2 : The wines of Gigondas
Séguret>Gigondas>Vacqueyras
- walking time about 5 hours - 17km - +350m/-450m
From Séguret you walk along quiet farm tracks above the Rhône Valley and walk to Gigondas, world famous for its sublime red wines. From Gigondas -- after a wine-tasting perhaps? -- you climb to get a closer view of the spectacular Dentelles de Montmirail, a veritable playground for walking and hiking, before descending to Vacqueyras, also reputed for its wine. Dinner and night in Vacqueyras.

Day 3 : The golden nectar of muscat wines
Vacqueyras>Le Barroux
- walking time about 5h30min. - 15km - +420m/-250m
Your Provence walking holiday continues through the untamed slopes, and you reach the ruins of a church, set beside ancient cave dwellings; from there you descend to Beaumes de Venise, where you can indulge in a glass of Muscat. Then it’s onward to Le Barroux, a hilltop village crowned by its 12th century castle and quiet streets, even off the beaten walking holiday path. Dinner and night in Le Barroux.

Day 4 : Ventoux: the summit of Provence
Le Barroux>Malaucène
- walking time about 4h30min. - 13km - +500m/-500m
Today you make your approach towards Mont Ventoux, its giant silhouette as a backdrop for your hike, its barren white peak glistening in the sun. Through shaded paths of pine and cedar you reach the chapel of Piaut, where in generations past locals climbed during periods of draught to pray for rain. Descend the pilgrimage path to Malaucène. Dinner and night in Malaucène.

Day 5 : On the north slope of Ventoux
Malaucène>malaucène
- walking time about 5 hours - 17km - +400m/-400m
Today's circular walk passes through the shaded and densely forested northern slope of Mont Ventoux. A walking path lined with Austrian black pine will lead you up to a remote chapel, with great views of the Baronnies Mountains. Two more Romanesque chapels dot your path back to Malaucène. Dinner on your own. Night in Malaucène.

Day 6 : Vaison la Romaine
Malaucène>Le Crestet>Vaison la romaine
- walking time about 6 hours - 18km - +400m/-280m
From Malaucène you walk northward on thyme and rosemary-drenched hills to the perched, authentic village of Le Crestet. Relax and enjoy your last afternoon in Vaison with its Gallo-Roman remains, the largest archaeological site in France. Dinner on your own. Night in Vaison.

Day 7 : To Avignon, city of the Popes
Vaison>Avignon
- walking time about 3 hours -
Visit the medieval village of Vaison and its Roman ruins before your transfer to Avignon. Spend the afternoon discovering the city or go on an optional walk to Villeneuve lez Avignon, 2nd home to Avignon’s Popes. Your Provence walking trip ends after transfer.

- 6 nights double occupancy with private facilities
- 6 breakfasts, 4 dinners
- Day 1: transfer by taxi from Avignon TGV train station to Séguret
- Day 7: transfer by taxi from Vaison to Avignon
- Luggage transfers days 1 to 7
- Our Road Book with detailed walking itineraries and a map.

Not included
Al lunches & dinners not noted in itinerary, entrance fees into museums, insurance, drinks, items of personal nature

path closures in the summer: from July 1st to September 30th the forest paths may be closed due to the risk of forest fire. The path restrictions are quite rare for this holiday however (in the Ventoux region). Information is available at 6:00pm for the following day at the local prefecture, by telephone or internet.

A short walk from the charming village of Séguret, listed among the most beautiful in France. The hotel is a former postmaster’s office where you'll savour refined regional dishes in a quiet and relaxing setting. In the summer months the tables are set on the shaded courtyard terrace. 7 rooms of great character and a pool hidden among the vines.

Beautiful 19th century building, set in the heart of the countryside, beside abandoned thermal springs that, one century ago, attracted tourists from around the world. In the outskirts of Vacqueyras, famous for its red wines. The comfortable and sun-lit rooms are full of Provençal charm. The restaurant proposes refined, Provençal menus with a modern twist. Swimming pool.

In the heart of the medieval village of Le Barroux, perched high above the plains with marvelous views, facing Provence’s highest mountain – Mont Ventoux. Small hotel with comfortable rooms and fabulous Provençal cuisine.

Set in the main square of Vaison la Romaine with a quaint terrace overlooking the town. The owners have a penchant for modern art: the hotel and its rooms are used as a gallery, showcasing art and regularly hosting new exhibits. Simple but comfortable rooms and an exceptionally warm welcome, even warmer for those travelling by foot or by bike!

WALK INN SARL - 30 Bd PAUL FLORET - 84000 AVIGNON - PROVENCE - FRANCE
Provence Hiking and Biking Tour Operator - N° licence : IM084100007 - A.P.S Member- info@walkinnprovence.com