This final 70.1 km stretch of the Via Aurelia takes you on a three-day contemplative journey from the hilltop village of Ventabren to the ancient city of Arles. With a gentle ascent of 361m and a descent of 619m, the path gradually levels out as it crosses the iconic landscapes of the Salon area and the vast, stony plains of La Crau. Along the way, millennial heritage unfolds between medieval ruins, historic canals, and humble oratories scattered through the Provençal scrubland. Approaching Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage site, marks a moment of profound spiritual significance as you reach the junction with the Way of Arles (GR653). This 18-hour walking experience is a true journey through time, passing Roman aqueducts and the very landscapes that inspired Van Gogh.
While the elevation gain is minimal, the difficulty lies in the length of the stages (averaging 23km per day) and the almost total exposure to the sun across the Crau plain. The 619m of descent is gradual, but the stony ground in certain sections can be taxing on the joints over such a long distance.
Plan your water supply carefully before crossing the Crau plain, as shade and water points are scarce. Be sure to have your credential stamped at the Church of Saint-Trophime in Arles, the symbolic endpoint of this section, and consider a stop in Salon-de-Provence to admire the Saint-Laurent collegiate church.