Hiking Trails Around Belvédère Sainte-Victoire
Six routes selected by Bernard, all accessible within 15 minutes of Belvédère. Downloadable GPS tracks included.Sainte-Victoire at Your Doorstep
From Belvédère, you are ideally located on the western side of Sainte-Victoire. Within just a few minutes by car, and sometimes even on foot, you can access some of the most beautiful trails in Provence.Bernard has selected six routes for you, ranging from an easy lakeside walk for families to a more challenging climb up to the Croix de Provence. Each trail includes a GPS track that you can download to your phone before heading out.Source for the GPX tracks: Visorando
Cézanne’s Mill and the Zola Dam
🟢 Easy
6,94 km - 2h50
Lake Bimont and Lake Zola
🟢 Easy
9,40 km - 3h25
Cézanne Refuge from the Bouquet Parking Lot
🟡 Moderate
3,58 km - 1h30
Sainte-Victoire: Cézanne Refuge and the Priory
🟡 Moderate
18,24 km - 7h50
The Croix de Provence via Les Venturiers
🔴 Difficult
14,94 km - 6h25
From Pic des Mouches to the Croix de Provence
🔴 Very Difficult
20,54 km - 7h
Cézanne’s Mill and the Zola Dam
🟢 Easy
A gentle, cultural walk starting from Le Tholonet, through the landscapes so dear to Cézanne. The trail leads to the 17th-century mill, follows the remains of a Roman aqueduct and its small waterfall, then reaches the Zola Dam. Ideal for families and enjoyable in every season.
Points of Interest: Cézanne’s Mill, now converted into an exhibition space, the ruins of the Roman aqueduct, the waterfall, the Zola Dam, and its views of Sainte-Victoire.
What to Bring: Light hiking shoes, water, and a hat in summer.
Lake Bimont and Lake Zola
🟢 Easy
An easy loop for everyone, connecting the two reservoir lakes of Sainte-Victoire. The route alternates between pine forests, lakeside paths, and viewpoints over the mountain. A peaceful, refreshing getaway just minutes from Belvédère.
Points of Interest: The Bimont Dam, the turquoise waters of the lake, the Zola Dam, and panoramic views of the western face of Sainte-Victoire.
What to Bring: Hiking shoes, water, and sun protection. Bimont Dam is accessible on weekends and public holidays.
Cézanne Refuge from the Bouquet Parking Lot
🟡 Moderate
A short but steady climb to Cézanne Refuge, on the southern side of Sainte-Victoire. The trail crosses the garrigue and offers beautiful views of the mountain cliffs. A brief route, ideal for a half-day outing.
Points of Interest: Cézanne Refuge, views of the southern face, and trails among the holm oaks.
What to Bring: At least 1.5 L of water, hiking shoes, and a snack. Download the GPX track before you leave, as cell service is limited on-site.
Sainte-Victoire: Cézanne Refuge and the Priory
🟡 Moderate
A full-day hike from the Bimont Dam to the Priory of Sainte-Victoire, passing by Cézanne Refuge. The route climbs toward the heights and rewards you with the discovery of the monastic site and sweeping summit views. A complete day in the mountains.
Points of Interest: Cézanne Refuge, the Priory and its 17th-century chapel, the Croix de Provence, and 360° views.
What to Bring: At least 2 L of water, high-cut hiking boots, a windbreaker, and a picnic. Start in the morning and plan for a full day. Avoid in very hot weather.
The Croix de Provence via Les Venturiers
🔴 Difficult
The iconic ascent to the Croix de Provence via the northern side, starting from Vauvenargues. The Venturiers trail climbs through the shade of oak trees before the final ascent to the Priory and the monumental cross. A Sainte-Victoire classic, both athletic and panoramic.
Points of Interest: The historic Venturiers trail, the Priory, the Croix de Provence at 946 m, and panoramic views over the Pays d’Aix and Lake Bimont.
What to Bring: 2 L of water, high-cut hiking boots, and a windbreaker. Demanding climb, good hiking fitness required.
From Pic des Mouches to the Croix de Provence
🔴 Very Difficult
The great ridge traverse of Sainte-Victoire, from Pic des Mouches, the highest point at 1,011 m, to the Croix de Provence. A long, demanding loop with rocky passages and technical sections. Reserved for experienced, well-equipped hikers.
Points of Interest: Pic des Mouches and its orientation table, the ridge traverse, the Priory, the Croix de Provence, and 360° panoramas.
What to Bring: 2.5 L of water, full hiking gear, and an early morning start. Absolutely avoid in wet weather, as the rocks can be slippery, and in strong winds on the ridges. Check the weather forecast the day before.