The 9 most beautiful hikes around Aix-en-Provence

Need a large bowl of fresh air and a little sun? Here is a selection of the most beautiful hikes around Aix-en-Provence.

Enjoy the sweetness of the rays of the sun, admire the splendid landscapes, breathe the fragrances of the garrigue and listen to the tranquility of nature... This is exactly what the hiking routes around Aix-en-Provence offer. There are miles and a way to visit the country of Aix, walking around is surely one of the best.

Escape the time of a walk and discover the local heritage. Aix-en-Provence and its surroundings are numerous. This selection of the most beautiful hikes around Aix-en-Provence will need your way.

1. La Sainte-Victoire

This guide of the most beautiful hikes around Aix-en-Provence could not have started any other way than by suggesting you to climb the Sainte-Victoire. A symbol of Provence and muse of Cézanne , this massive limestone deserves a few drops of sweat.

The path crosses the Priory of Sainte-Victoire, as well as many views of Lac du Bimont and its dam. Once at the top and at the foot of La Croix de Provence, you can enjoy a splendid panorama from the Alps to Mont Ventoux . Put on good shoes, and go for adventure!

2. The historic centre of Aix-en-Provence

Here is a walk that will allow you to visit Aix-en-Provence: the city with thousand fountains and the capital of the calisson. The course is to be done in any season, with family, with friends or with a couple. This city of water, art and history opens its doors to you and makes you discover both its culture, its art of living and its architecture.

It is advisable to go to the point of departure by public transport. You will pass through the key points of the city: the Cours Mirabeau, the fountain of the Rotonde, the Pavillon Vendôme, and many more. Many shaded places are on the course. Take a break with a coffee on the terrace, and opt for the hike!

3. Nature trail between scrubland and pinewood

In the heart of the pine forest and the Provencal Garrigue, enjoy the scents of thyme, rosemary and lavender. The trail of this wild ride offers many surprises.

This hike around Aix-en-Provence is aimed at visiting the Roque d’Antheron. This village, located on the edge of the Durance, is surrounded by beautiful wild and preserved landscapes. You will have the opportunity to climb to the Judge’s Bastide. From here, an extraordinary panorama of the Luberon and the Durance is offered to you. You are also advised to stop at the Cistercian abbey of Silvacane for a moment. As a bonus: you may have the opportunity to cross a herd of Jacourelles goats.

4. From Cézanne to the balconies of Aix-en-Provence

The Sainte-Victoire as a backdrop, you will discover the colors and landscapes as Paul Cézanne lived them. Here, in the heart of nature, you will feel with intensity the presence of the painter.

The trail follows the footsteps of the Master of Modern Paint to reach the Arc River. This small river takes its source in the Var before throwing into the pond of Berre. End the hike by enjoying the tranquility of the place and the shade of the trees.

5. Between vineyards and olive trees

In the center of Aix, discover the countryside of Saint-Cannat. This small Provencal village abounds in agricultural land, in which you will enjoy walking.

Your path passes between vineyards and olive groves. Then in the undergrowth of pines and oaks. This hike around Aix-en-Provence will surely delight you.

6. The scents of Provence

Want to know more about Provence and its scents? You're falling to the peak! This walk is done with the nose. Visit the north of the Sainte-Victoire in the perched village of Jouques.

The paths cross the aromatic fields. Thym, lavender, rosemary. Your senses are awakening: colors and odors are only one. Before returning to the village, admire the chapel Sainte-Trinité as well as the mill Saint-Vincent, lavandin distillery and olive oil mill.

7. Tour du lac du Bimont

The trails of this hike around Aix-en-Provence are largely shaded. They offer some views of the north side of the Sainte-Victoire, but above all magnificent views of the Lac du Bimont.

Continue your walk without forgetting to admire the landscape and vegetation. Advent yourself in the brushes and steep corners, away from the crowd.

8. At the foot of the Sainte-Victoire

11 km of walk in the sumptuous setting of the Sainte-Victoire. After following the Route de Cézanne, you enter the largest vineyard in the Bouches du Rhône. On your course, there are many indications about the grape varieties of the region's wines. You will know the secrets of the AOC Côte de Provence Sainte-Victoire.

Between the vineyards, this hike around Aix-en-Provence is full of charm. On the way back, you will have the opportunity to taste some wines, with moderation!

9. The Cézanne Mill and the Zola Dam

Here is a nice hike around Aix-en-Provence that will lead you to the Moulin de Cézanne. It is a place that, after receiving remarkable artists like Paul Cézanne, Leo Marchutz and André Masson, hosts exhibitions of painting and sculptures.

Your path will also take you to the Tholonet Castle and the Zola Dam. In the distance you will see the Holy See. Discover the ruins of the ancient Roman aqueduct and its cascade.