This magisterial 69.3 km crossing takes you from the heart of the County of Provence to the city of King René, requiring approximately 18 hours of walking over three days. Leaving Brignoles and its rich medieval past, you will cross the Sainte-Baume ridges and pass through authentic villages like Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, home to the basilica of Mary Magdalene. The route features 1447m of ascent and 1499m of descent, winding through AOC Coteaux d'Aix vineyards and evergreen oak forests. The approach to Aix-en-Provence is dominated by the imposing silhouette of Mount Sainte-Victoire, a natural beacon for pilgrims. This section is where spirituality meets the unique light that so inspired Cézanne, offering a profound moment of introspection before reaching the fountains of Aix.
With 1447m of total ascent, this stage is rated difficult due to its length and the series of stony climbs often under intense sun. The ridge sections can be taxing on the joints during the 1499m of cumulative descent, especially between Pourcieux and Châteauneuf-le-Rouge.
Plan a major spiritual stop at the Basilica of Saint-Maximin to get your credential stamped. Carry at least 3 liters of water per day, as springs are rare on the limestone plateaus between villages. A variant via the Cengle plateau offers breathtaking views of Sainte-Victoire.