This spectacular 73.1 km three-day journey above the French Riviera offers total immersion between sea and mountains, with a demanding total ascent of 2797m. Starting from the La Pausa chapel in Roquebrune, the pilgrim rises toward the Trophy of Augustus in La Turbie before heading inland via the Laghet sanctuary, a significant site of Provençal devotion. The trail winds through limestone cliffs and oak forests, passing through the perched villages of Aspremont and Colomars to cross the Var River and reach the hills of Grasse before arriving in Mougins. The constant physical exertion, coupled with 2774m of descent, invites deep inner meditation against the backdrop of the shimmering Mediterranean below. This is a unique spiritual and scenic odyssey where ancient heritage constantly interacts with the fervor of the historical Way of St. James.
The main challenge lies in the cumulative elevation gain (2797m D+) spread across steep, stony climbs, especially between La Turbie and Mount Macaron. Crossing the Var River and the series of 'rollercoaster' hills around Mougins place significant strain on the joints after 73 km. Sun exposure on the limestone ridges can make the trek exhausting during the summer months.
Plan for a spiritual stop and an overnight stay at the Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Laghet to get your credential stamped in a historic setting. Ensure you carry at least 3 liters of water at the start of each stage, as water points are scarce on the ridges between Aspremont and the Var. In Mougins, be sure to visit the Church of Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur to beautifully conclude this section.