This 99.2 km passage through the wild Var region takes you from the Mediterranean blue of Saint-Raphaël to the mystical lands of Bras in approximately 25 hours of walking. Leaving the coast behind, you will tackle 1,815m of elevation gain and 1,512m of loss, winding through forested massifs and the renowned vineyards of the Côtes de Provence. The route passes through the village of Roquebrune-sur-Argens and the Thoronet Abbey, a Cistercian masterpiece where silence invites deep spiritual introspection. Between rocky hills and the shade of cork oaks, every step on this ancient Roman road brings you closer to the heart of Provence, far from the coastal bustle. It is a sensory journey where the scents of thyme and rosemary accompany the pilgrim toward the sacred relics of Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume.
With a cumulative elevation gain of 1,815m, this section is physically demanding and requires excellent endurance over three consecutive days. The heat can be overwhelming in the exposed scrubland areas between Roquebrune and Le Thoronet, and some forest tracks have unstable and stony ground. Supplies are few and far between, requiring strict management of your water and food reserves.
Be sure to stop at Thoronet Abbey to get your credential stamped and enjoy the church's unique acoustics. Carry at least 3 liters of water per day, as water points are scarce on the limestone plateaus of the Var backcountry. For an authentic experience, try staying in communal hostels or local guest houses in Lorgues to break up the distance.