dossier

Provence Cote d Azur Walk

PROVENCE & COTE D'AZUR WALK - DAY BY DAY

Hôtel les Alcyons***, just a few kilometres from Le Lavandou

Le Lavandou takes its name from the lavender fields on the banks of the River Betailler and, despite the growth in tourism along this stretch of the coast, it has so far preserved much of its Provençal character. Hôtel les Alcyons is about a 25 minute walk from Le Lavandou and faces the little beach at Aiguebelle. All Breakaway guests will stay in the first floor rooms with balcony with sea view, tv, minibar and air conditioning.

Further details on the hotel website.

Sunday  Arrive at Le Lavandou

We meet you at Marseilles airport and take you to your hotel where our guide will review over dinner the week’s program.

Monday  Port Cros 10km/6mi/5hr

We start with a 40 min ferry ride (fare included) from Le Lavandou to Ile de Port Cros - the wildest and most natural of the Iles d’Or (Golden Islands). Starting at the port on the northern tip, we cross the island heading south to the coast. The flora and fauna are so well preserved that even bicycles aren’t allowed on the island - and smoking is strictly forbidden. After a picnic, we return along the north coast with magnificent views back across the Med and great places to swim.

Tuesday  Fort de Brégançon 10km/6mi/4hr

A gentle coastal path leads us from the Plage du Pellegrin around beautiful sweeping bays to the beach of L’Estagnol. We have a quick swim before lunch in an amazing beach restaurant. To help digest, we have a game of pétanque, chance of another swim and continue to Brégançon - the French President’s summer residence. On the way home, a short detour to the picturesque village of Bormes-les-Mimosas.

Wednesday  Cap Lardier  11km/7mi/5hr

A superb coastal path, lined with pillar-box red poppies, bright yellow cistus and startling white mimosas, leads us from the sandy beach at Gigaro to Cap Lardier, a noted bird sanctuary. Before returning to the hotel, we take a short detour to the typically Provençal artists village of Ramatuelle.

Thursday  Le Lavandou & Millionaire’s Cruise

We start the day with a visit to the Provençal market at Le Lavandou. A luxury yacht awaits us at the port from where we sail to a remote bay. We celebrate arrival at our destination with ice cold champagne apéritifs, followed by a buffet lunch on board. In the afternoon, we can dive from the boat to swim and snorkel in the clear blue waters of the Med, or simply relax in sunny luxury. Upon return to Le Lavandou, we walk back to the hotel along an amazing coastal path - a perfect end to a super day.

Friday  Massif des Maures  12km/7mi/4hr

Our circular route follows an old charcoal burner’s path through shaded green forests of Aleppo pines, chestnuts and ancient oaks – many of the villagers of the hamlets on the densely wooded slopes of the Massif des Maures still make their living from gathering the sweet chestnuts. After a picnic we head over to the charming village of Collobrières – THE place to sample marrons glacés!

Saturday  Cap St Tropez  10km/6mi/4.5hr

Our final day’s walk is mostly at sea level along a well trodden path, carpeted with Mediterranean maquis. Wild mint, rosemary and lavender scent the sea-swept air as we discover tiny coves only accessible by foot. After a leisurely picnic against a backdrop of the snow-capped Alpes Maritimes, we carry on to the honey-pot resort of St Tropez, passing millionaires' houses and Bridget Bardot's cottage enroute. You can wander along the quayside, visit the Citadelle, or savour a kir royale in Place Carnot and watch the world go by.

Sunday  Leave Le Lavandou

Subject to transfer timings, we'll leave the hotel after breakfast and drive (2 hours) to Aix-en-Provence.  Time to stroll around this beautiful university town before lunch (optional) on the terrace of a 150-year old restaurant on the Cours Mirabeau.  It's then just a 20 minute drive to the airport to catch flights home.

WALKING DETAILS

A moderate level walk at the upper end of our 2 boot range, largely on semi-shaded coastal paths. The few short ascents afford spectacular views. Walking boots are essential.