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Van Gogh's Footsteps
Provence
France
Join this weeklong self-guided hiking tour through the Alpilles in order to discover this beautiful region at your own pace.
The trip starts in Avignon, where the Popes established residence for a brief period during the 14th century. From there, you start your walk across the renown vineyards of Provence, stopping to visit picturesque villages along the way.
Your journey comes to an end in Arles, a beautiful city with a plethora of ancient Roman ruins.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Vineyards and olive groves of Provence
- Retracing the life and brush strokes of Van Gogh
- Perched medieval village of Les Baux de Provence
- Roman Arles
Walking Tour
Meeting:
Avignon
Airport:
Marseille
Transfer:
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Rates and Dates for 2024
Rates include:
Accommodations, All breakfasts, Local transfers described in the itinerary, Emergency phone number & Road Book
A | 2024 | 7 day Self guided walking tour (High) | 7d / 6n | €875 | $960 |
Group discount (4-6 pax), pp | (€60) | ($65) |
Single supplement | €475 | $520 |
Solo hiker supplement | €625 | $690 |
B | 2024 | 7 day Self guided walking tour (Low) | 7d / 6n | €790 | $870 |
Group discount (4-6 pax), pp | (€60) | ($65) |
Single supplement | €400 | $440 |
Solo hiker supplement | €560 | $615 |
Transfer and Other Charges:
2024
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Make you own way to Avignon on Day 1
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2024
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Many train connections available from Arles (where trip ends) to Marseille or Avignon
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2024
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Possible accommodation upgrade - inquire for rates
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B |
2024
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03/01
- 03/31
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7d / 6n
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7 day Self guided walking to...
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2
/6
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Reserve
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A |
2024
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04/01
- 06/25
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7d / 6n
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7 day Self guided walking to...
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2
/6
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Reserve
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A |
2024
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09/01
- 09/30
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7d / 6n
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7 day Self guided walking to...
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2
/6
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Reserve
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B |
2024
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10/01
- 11/15
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7d / 6n
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7 day Self guided walking to...
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2
/6
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Reserve
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Rates do not include:
All lunches and dinners, Drinks, Transfers before and after the trip & Entrance fees
Sample Itinerary - subject to changes
Day 1: Arrival in Avignon
You can arrive in Avignon any time during the day. Discover the beauty of one of Provence’s great cities.
Meals included: none
Overnight in Avignon
Day 2: Saint Rémy de Provence
Free morning in Avignon, during which you can wander through the covered market (except on Mondays - no market). Transfer after lunch to St Remy de Provence. Free afternoon in St Remy, with the option to follow the “Van Gogh’s” walking tour in and around town.
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in Saint Rémy
Day 3: Walk around St Rémy de Provence
If you are in St Remy de Provence on a Wednesday or Saturday, make sure to visit the market in the morning.
From St. Rémy you pass St. Paul de Mausole, the former monastery where Van Gogh spent the last year of his life. From there you head up a quiet valley, following a botanical path to the ridge of the Alpilles mountains, and to the “Rocher des deux trous”. From here the views are outstanding... You then have two options: either a leisurely stroll back down the mountain or a breathtaking path on a rocky crest, adding a bit of adventure and a lot of “wow” to the day’s walk (followed by the same leisurely stroll back down the mountain…).
Note that the second option is a more challenging walk in an otherwise easy walking holiday, and you may not feel comfortable completing it unless you have some walking experience on jagged and uneven paths.
Hiking about 3h (10 km) +250m /-250m OR 6h (18 km)
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in Saint Rémy
Day 4: Saint Rémy de Provence to Les Baux de Provence
Heading back to the ridge of the mountain, you follow a track through the bush – among thyme and citrus flowers – with open views of the mountains to the north and the flatlands to the south. Soon the medieval village of Les Baux appears, perched dizzyingly on its rocky spur, with the ruins of its 1000 year-old castle.
Hiking about 3h30 +270m / -100m
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in Les Baux de Provence
Day 5: Hike to Maussane
You dip down into the plains, where the prestigious olive groves carpet the landscape, their silvery leaves glistening in the sun. You can taste some of the local olive oils and specialties in Maussane, a quaint Provençal town, Then, you will need some energy to climb back towards Les Baux on a hidden path behind the village...
Hiking about 4h30 + 250m / - 250m
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in Les Baux de Provence
Day 6: Les Baux de Provence to Arles
After climbing to the rounded summit above the village, it’s an undulating stroll along the ridge. You walk along the entire western edge of the mountain, and until its very end, as it descends into the plains, to the Romanesque St. Gabriel chapel.
Transfer to Arles after your hike.
Hiking about 5h30 +100m / -350m
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in Arles
Day 7: Departure
End of trip after breakfast.
NOTE: Path restrictions in the ALPILLES
From June 1st until September 30th access to forest paths may be forbidden or partially restricted (access until 11:00am) if the risk of forest fire is high.
Walks may vary due to weather conditions and dry season (lack of rain = forest fires). It is the client's responsibility to get this information, that is featured no later than 6pm a day ahead.
Clients can ask the reception to call for them, if they want to make sure they understand the instructions correctly.
Any extra cost due to those restrictions (or to any other reason) will be at the clients’ charge (extra transfers). If the paths happen to be restricted - forbidden, we will do our best to offer alternative options.
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Meeting:
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Avignon
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Airport:
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Marseille
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Train station:
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Avignon
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Transfer:
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Transfers are not available for this trip. You need to make your own way to Avignon on Day 1.
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Level:
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Easy to Moderate
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Hiking 3 to 5 hours per day
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Participants:
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Min
2
participants
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Max
6
participants
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Trip Diffculty: Easy to Moderate
Walking from 3 to 5,5 hours per day
Easy:
The easy walks are a way for you to get some fresh air, see beautiful landscapes and discover places (cities, sites) on a relatively flat and smooth itinerary.
If you like to have the time to meander, take in the sights, and just generally take your time, then this is the level for you!
You will walk between 2 to 4 hours a day – 9 to 14 km on an easy terrain. Average ascent / descent of 300 meters per walk.
There may be some climbing up to perched villages and monuments, but you do not need to be an athlete or a hard-core walker to complete these itineraries.
Moderate:
This level is for people who exercise regularly (walking, cycling, aerobics…). You are in good shape and don’t mind scrambling a little bit to get to some stages of the itinerary. For you, walking uphill at a slow pace for a relatively long period of time is not an issue and you enjoy going for day-long hikes.
You will walk over different types of terrains. There are no particular skills required as you will not encounter any technical difficulties, but some good reliable walking shoes are recommended.
When hiking , you will walk between 4 to 5 hours a day – 10 to 15 km on a relatively easy terrain though you can expect some uneven or steep stages during your walk. Average ascent /descent of 300 to 650 meters per walk.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except: (a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card. Passport NoteFranc. more
Saint Rémy de Provence area
Month
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Jan
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Feb
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Mar
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Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
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Nov
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Dec
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Average High Temperature (°F)
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51
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54
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62
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69
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75
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85
|
89
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87
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80
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70
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59
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52
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Average Low Temperature (°F)
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34
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35
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40
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46
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53
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60
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64
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63
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57
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50
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42
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35
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Average High Temperature (°C)
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11
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12
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17
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21
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24
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29
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32
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31
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27
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21
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15
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11
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Average Low Temperature (°C)
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1
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2
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5
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8
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11
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16
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18
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17
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14
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10
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5
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2
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Source: NOAA
Seasons
The Provençal climate is characterized by the bright and ever-present Provençal sun. The winds and rains are sporadic year-round.
Winters are most often mild and sunny, with incredibly clear skies. This is a great season with incredible lighting.
Autumn & Spring, with their mild weather, can sometimes bring with them more abundant rains.
Summer months can be very hot and dry, with occasional thunderstorms that cool the air.
We recommend visiting between March and June or September and November, when the mild temperatures are ideal.
Mistral Wind
The mistral is a strong and turbulent wind that blows in gusts. It cools the hot summer temperatures and produces a brisk chill in the winter.
It is always accompanied by the sun, an intense blue sky, and spectacular visibility.
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*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
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Accommodations
This is a progressive trip, so you will be staying in different establishments along the way.
Description
We favour small local establishments, often family-run hotels or B&Bs, that employ local people. Selected by our track finders, our accommodations are chosen based on the friendliness of the owners, the quality of the service, the charm of the establishment and, quite often, the quirkyness (of both accommodation and owners!) that makes where you sleep an integral part of your adventure.
Your package includes standard accommodation (with all basic comfort and services) but it is possible to upgrade to more comfortable accommodations for an extra fee.
Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1: Hotel Boquier in Avignon
Night 2 & 3: Castellet des Alpilles in St Remy
Night 4 & 5: Mas d'Aigret in Les Baux
Night 6: Hotel du Forum in Arles
Hotel Boquier in Avignon
In a quiet pedestrian street, in the heart of Avignon, stands the Boquier hotel (2 stars). This atypical and cozy building from the 18th century will warmly welcome you. Each of the 13 comfortable room comes equipped with air conditioning, a flat screen television, a private shower room and Wi-Fi access.
Le Castelet des Alpilles in St Rémy de Provence
This early 20th century family house was turned into a hotel in 1952 and has been run by the same family for three generations. Most of the 19 rooms are facing south onto the Alpilles and the view from the terrace is breathtaking. All bedrooms offer a private bathroom, a TV, air-conditioning and free WIFI connection.
Guests can also go for a swim in the outdoor pool if they wish.
Mas d'Aigret in Les Baux
At the foot of the Village of Baux-de-Provence, the Mas d'Aigret welcomes in one of the 16 elegant rooms. Each room has its own décor and all feature a safe, air conditioning, private facilities, flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi access.
Guests can unwind in the lovely garden and enjoy a swim in the outdoor heated pool.
Hotel du Forum in Arles
Acquired in 1921 by the Oggier family and passed down from father to son over the generations, this family hotel comprising of two buildings is full of history, with its old stones and ancient furniture.
The 38 rooms are all different, but all are equipped with a flat screen TV, reversible air conditioning, safe and private bathroom. There is free WIFI in the hotel.
In the evening, you can relax by the pool in the lovely inner courtyard.
Meals
Only breakfasts are included in your package.
Breakfast will be provided by the accommodations.
Tack:
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Horses:
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Pace:
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Hiking 3 to 5 hours per day
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Level:
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(2
out of 5) Easy to Moderate
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Riders:
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Min
2
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Max
6
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Trip Diffculty: Easy to Moderate
Walking from 3 to 5,5 hours per day
Easy:
The easy walks are a way for you to get some fresh air, see beautiful landscapes and discover places (cities, sites) on a relatively flat and smooth itinerary.
If you like to have the time to meander, take in the sights, and just generally take your time, then this is the level for you!
You will walk between 2 to 4 hours a day – 9 to 14 km on an easy terrain. Average ascent / descent of 300 meters per walk.
There may be some climbing up to perched villages and monuments, but you do not need to be an athlete or a hard-core walker to complete these itineraries.
Moderate:
This level is for people who exercise regularly (walking, cycling, aerobics…). You are in good shape and don’t mind scrambling a little bit to get to some stages of the itinerary. For you, walking uphill at a slow pace for a relatively long period of time is not an issue and you enjoy going for day-long hikes.
You will walk over different types of terrains. There are no particular skills required as you will not encounter any technical difficulties, but some good reliable walking shoes are recommended.
When hiking , you will walk between 4 to 5 hours a day – 10 to 15 km on a relatively easy terrain though you can expect some uneven or steep stages during your walk. Average ascent /descent of 300 to 650 meters per walk.
Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except:
(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Passport Note
France is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement.
Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for the following durations:
(a) nationals of EU countries for an unlimited period;
(b) nationals of Australia, Canada and the USA for stays of up to 90 days.
Passport Required? |
British |
Yes |
Australian |
Yes |
Canadian |
Yes |
USA |
Yes |
Other EU |
1 |
Visa Required? |
British |
No |
Australian |
No |
Canadian |
No |
USA |
No |
Other EU |
No |
Return Ticket Required? |
British |
No |
Australian |
Yes |
Canadian |
Yes |
USA |
Yes |
Other EU |
No |
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Van Gogh's Footsteps
Tour Code:
ZZ-FR-Hike12
7 days /
6 nights
~$960.00
Dates: Mar-Jun to Sep-Nov
Level :
Difficulty Levels Explained
1. |
Easy
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Easy pace and an average-to-sedentary level of fitness. You should be in good health and fit enough for full day of normal sightseeing and walking.
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2. |
Easy to Moderate
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An average level of fitness or some experience with the featured
activity is recommended.
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3. |
Moderate
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Requires you to have performed the featured activity regularly, with
some periods on challenging terrain. Activities are mandatory and
you may be traveling at high elevations. You need to be in good health and physical condition to enjoy these trips, with adequate muscular strength and cardiovascular endurance.
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4. |
Demanding
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You must be extremely physically fit and are expected to hike or
ride four to six hours over steep or more rugged terrain. |
5. |
Strenuous
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Prolonged hiking/biking on moderate to difficult terrain (five to nine hours a day).
May include high altitude, rugged terrain etc.. |
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accomodation
Airport:
Marseille
Activities:
Hiking, sightseeing
Location on Google Map
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Climate
Download tour PDF
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