This 85.4 km odyssey over three days leads you into the heart of authentic Provence, connecting the medieval elegance of Valbonne to the timbered charms of Les Arcs-sur-Argens. Featuring 1287m of ascent and 1368m of descent, the trail snakes through fragrant pine forests, the valleys of the Grasse region, and the first vineyards of the Estérel. Along the way, spirituality reveals itself through Romanesque chapels and ancient oratories lining the Via Aurelia, marking a millennium of devotion. This demanding section requires approximately 22 hours of walking, offering total immersion between wild scrubland and perched villages where time seems to stand still for the pilgrim.
The difficulty lies in the accumulation of 1287m of elevation gain over three days and managing the heat in the sparsely shaded scrubland. The technical descents in the Haut-Var valleys, totaling 1368m of descent, place significant strain on the joints, especially when carrying a full pilgrim's pack.
Plan for significant water reserves between Valbonne and the stage villages, as supply points are rare in the wild. Be sure to have your credential stamped at the Saint-Blaise church in Valbonne before departure and enjoy a tasting of AOC Côtes de Provence wines upon arrival in Les Arcs.