This majestic 80.8 km crossing links the rocky outcrop of Saint-Paul-de-Vence to the ancient episcopal city of Fréjus, in the heart of the Estérel massif. Over three days of hiking, you will tackle 1686m of ascent and 1919m of descent, crossing the valleys of the Grasse region before reaching the red volcanic soils of the coast. The trail meanders through olive groves and fragrant scrubland, passing historical gems such as the Saint-Cassien chapel and the Roman remains of the Fréjus aqueduct. Between sea and mountains, this approximately 22-hour journey offers a deep spiritual dimension, marked by the early Christian heritage of Provence. Arriving at the Saint-Léonce cathedral marks the culmination of an unforgettable sensory and historical pilgrimage.
The effort is sustained with 1686m of total ascent, requiring excellent endurance over three consecutive days. The main difficulty lies in the sun exposure on the Estérel ridges and managing water supplies on isolated rocky sections. The technical descents (1919m of total descent) can be strenuous on the knees, especially with a heavy pilgrim pack.
Remember to get your credential stamped at the Saint-Paul-de-Vence tourist office and at the Fréjus cathedral. Carry at least 3 liters of water per day, as springs are rare in the volcanic Estérel massif. A spiritual stop at the small rural chapels of the hinterland will greatly enrich your experience.