This 55.4 km section, connecting Coudoux to Fontvieille over three days, offers a profound immersion into the heart of the Alpilles massif and the Crau plain. With an elevation gain of 306m and a loss of 489m, the route leads pilgrims through silvery olive groves and the renowned vineyards of the Coteaux d'Aix, passing through Salon-de-Provence. The path invites spiritual contemplation before numerous dry-stone oratories and Roman remains that line the ancient Via Aurelia. You will traverse wild scrubland and historic villages like Eyguières before spotting the famous windmills of Fontvieille, signaling the approach to Arles. This journey represents approximately 15 hours of walking where the Provençal silence accompanies every step toward Saint James's shrine.
The difficulty lies mainly in the cumulative length over three days and the almost constant exposure to the sun in the scrubland areas. The 306m elevation gain is moderate, but the rocky terrain can be taxing on the joints during the descents towards Fontvieille. Water management is crucial, as some sections between Salon and Eyguières are isolated and lack supply points.
Plan a stop at the Saint-Laurent collegiate church in Salon-de-Provence to stamp your credential and admire Nostradamus's relics. Take advantage of the stop in Eyguières to refill water at the village fountains before entering the Alpilles. For a unique experience, spend the last night near the Montmajour Abbey, a Romanesque masterpiece located just before the final arrival.