Walking in Provence - West - Janette Norton

Explore western Provence and discover one of southern France's most varied and evocative landscapes, stretching from the lavender fields and gorges of the Drôme Provençale and Vaucluse to the forested ridges and perched villages of the Var. Rich in Roman history, medieval abbeys, arcaded market towns, and wild natural scenery, western Provence offers an exceptional walking destination in every season. Suitable for beginner and experienced walkers alike, this comprehensive Cicerone guidebook describes 30 circular day walks across three distinct areas of western Provence: the Drôme Provençale, the Vaucluse, and the Var. Routes range from 4 to 16km (2–10 miles) and can be enjoyed in 2–7 hours, graded from easy to difficult to suit a range of abilities and fitness levels. Choose from 30 circular day walks across the Drôme Provençale, Vaucluse, and Var, exploring dramatic gorges, mountain ridges, lavender country, perched medieval villages, ruined castles, and the famous Colorado Provençal ochre landscape near Apt. Discover the highlights of western Provence, including the Dentelles de Montmirail, the Gorges de la Nesque, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, the Abbaye de Sénanque, Montagne Sainte-Victoire, and the Sainte-Baume ridge and massif in the south. Navigate with confidence using sketch maps included for each route in western Provence, with downloadable GPX files to support your planning and navigation on the ground. Plan your Provence walking holiday from charming key bases including Nyons and Buis-les-Baronnies in the Drôme Provençale, Vaison-la-Romaine and Apt in the Vaucluse, and St-Maximin-la-Ste-Baume and Aix-en-Provence in the Var. Choose the best time to walk in western Provence with guidance on seasons, showing why spring and autumn are the most pleasant times to visit, while most walks at lower elevations are accessible and enjoyable year-round. Deepen your experience of the region with introductory sections on the history of Provence, its plants and flowers, wildlife, regional food and drink, and the art and literature inspired by this exceptional corner of southern France. Extend your walking with the companion volume, Walking in Provence: East, which together with this guide covers the full breadth of Provence's varied and beautiful landscapes. Explore the gorges, villages, and wild landscapes of western Provence with confidence using this trusted Cicerone guidebook. From the lavender country of the Drôme Provençale to the forested ridges of the Var, this is the essential companion for walking in one of France's most beloved regions.