Hikes
The nearest hikes
Located at the heart of this Grand Site de France since 2004, Le Chant des Pins offers privileged access to the Sainte-Victoire Mountain, a true gem of France’s natural heritage that deserves to be preserved.
In 2019, during the renewal of its label, the Concors massif was added, creating the Grand Site Concors Sainte-Victoire.
In 2019, during the renewal of its label, the Concors massif was added, creating the Grand Site Concors Sainte-Victoire.
The Sainte-Victoire Mountain Trails
Sainte-Victoire Mountain peaks between 900 and 1,000 meters in altitude, depending on where you are along its ridge. If you plan to reach the Croix de Provence or its Priory, make sure you’re properly equipped—you’ll face a 600-meter elevation gain through rocky and rugged terrain.
Your effort will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Alpine peaks, Mont Ventoux, the Étang de Berre, and the Sainte-Baume mountain.
Be aware, this is no simple forest walk—let alone a casual stroll down the Cours Mirabeau! Also, note that access to the site is regulated during the summer season.
👉 Information: Site access / Hiking trails
Your effort will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Alpine peaks, Mont Ventoux, the Étang de Berre, and the Sainte-Baume mountain.
Be aware, this is no simple forest walk—let alone a casual stroll down the Cours Mirabeau! Also, note that access to the site is regulated during the summer season.
👉 Information: Site access / Hiking trails
The Bibémus Forest and Bimont Dam
The Bibémus Forest and Bimont Dam are popular spots among locals from Aix-en-Provence, who never tire of the site’s beauty and grandeur. Just a 5-minute drive away, you can reach the Bimont Dam and, from the parking area, explore several trails at the foot of Sainte-Victoire Mountain.
We especially recommend the route leading down to the Zola Dam, located a bit lower in the valley. This trail follows the Infernet Gorges downstream from the Bimont Dam before reaching the Zola Dam. The return journey takes you through the Bibémus Forest back to the parking area, your starting point.
⏱ Plan for a 1.5 to 2-hour walk.
We especially recommend the route leading down to the Zola Dam, located a bit lower in the valley. This trail follows the Infernet Gorges downstream from the Bimont Dam before reaching the Zola Dam. The return journey takes you through the Bibémus Forest back to the parking area, your starting point.
⏱ Plan for a 1.5 to 2-hour walk.
The César Tower Trail and the Ridge Path
The trail leading to the César Tower (or Keyrié Tower) and continuing along the ridge path starts directly from the lodges. Easily accessible, it’s perfect for a jog or a casual walk to stretch your legs.
From the tower, enjoy an unparalleled panoramic view of Aix-en-Provence. If you follow the ridge path all the way to Vauvenargues (10 km), you’ll be treated to continuous views of the Sainte-Victoire Mountain.
*Vauvenargues: a charming Provençal village with a few local shops and the famous Picasso Castle, the painter’s final residence and resting place.
From the tower, enjoy an unparalleled panoramic view of Aix-en-Provence. If you follow the ridge path all the way to Vauvenargues (10 km), you’ll be treated to continuous views of the Sainte-Victoire Mountain.
*Vauvenargues: a charming Provençal village with a few local shops and the famous Picasso Castle, the painter’s final residence and resting place.