This 28.9 km journey leaves Nostradamus' city behind to delve into the wild heart of the Alpilles Regional Natural Park. With an ascent of 155m and a descent of 198m, this approximately 7-hour and 15-minute walk takes you through vast stretches of scrubland and silver olive groves, typical of limestone Provence. Along the way, you will discover the medieval village of Eyguières before skirting the foothills of the Alpilles range, where the silence is only broken by the sound of cicadas. The spiritual dimension reflects in the isolated oratories you pass, reminding us of the devotion of pilgrims who for centuries have walked between white rocks and deep blue skies towards Maussane.
Despite the relatively flat terrain (only 155m of ascent), the main difficulty lies in the length of the stage and the almost total exposure to the sun on the white limestone tracks. Some sections of stony paths in the Alpilles can be taxing on the joints over time.
Be sure to refill your water in Eyguières, as the crossing to Maussane lacks any supply points. Take a break at the Maussane Tourist Office to get your credential stamped; the town is famous for its high-quality olive oil production.