11-Nights Hiking Provence: Hilltop Villages to Les Calanques

Provence is celebrated for its clear light and cobblestoned villages, historic palaces and abbeys set amid lavender fields. Yet the Provence you discover when exploring on foot is even more magical. Starting in Avignon, head to the Alpilles with its jagged peaks and sunbaked pines. Set off through olive groves, fields of poppies, and hillsides fragrant with wild thyme in the Luberon. Go truffle hunting, meet a cheesemaker, and taste local wines along the way. End with a spectacular hike amidst the limestone cliffs of the Les Dentelles de Montmirail.

Highlights:

• Hike the postcard-perfect medieval villages of Bonnieux, Gordes, and Les Baux de Provence
• Walk vineyard trails, enjoy gourmet picnics with fresh Provencal fare, and stroll through bountiful markets
• Marvel at Van Gogh's St. Remy landscapes, just as he painted them

Important Trip Details:
This is a moderately challenging hike with hiking distances of 6-7 miles per day. You should be comfortable hiking 3-4 hours per day. Elevation gain and loss is moderate, usually 600-1,500 feet.

Minimum Age: 16