Walking in Provence - East

Explore eastern Provence and discover one of southern France's most varied and rewarding landscapes, stretching from the red rocks and Mediterranean coastline of the Estérel to the high alpine terrain of the Mercantour, with the dramatic Verdon Gorge and the Geological Reserve of Haute Provence in between. Rich in history, wildflowers, perched medieval villages, and ruined castles, eastern Provence offers an exceptional walking destination in every season. Suitable for beginners and experienced walkers alike, this comprehensive Cicerone guidebook describes 30 circular day walks across three distinct areas of eastern Provence: the Alpes Maritimes, the Alpes de Haute-Provence, and the Mercantour. Routes range from 4 to 21km (2–13 miles) and can be enjoyed in 2–8 hours, graded from easy to difficult to suit a range of abilities and fitness levels. Choose from 30 circular day walks across the Alpes Maritimes, Alpes de Haute-Provence, and Mercantour, exploring dramatic mountain ridges, alpine lakes, deep river gorges, perched medieval villages, and the striking red rocks of the Estérel coastline. Discover the highlights of eastern Provence, including the Verdon Gorge and its famous Sentier Blanc-Martel, the Geological Reserve of Haute Provence, Mont Mounier, Mont Pelat, the Gorges de Daluis, and the Estérel circuit above the Mediterranean coast. Navigate with confidence using sketch maps included for each route in eastern Provence, with downloadable GPX files to support your planning and navigation on the ground. Plan your Provence walking holiday from key bases including Vence and Grasse in the Alpes Maritimes, Digne-les-Bains and Castellane in the Alpes de Haute-Provence, and Guillaumes and the Val d'Entraunes in the Mercantour. Choose the best time to walk in eastern Provence with guidance on seasons, showing why coastal and lowland walks are suitable year-round while the high Mercantour trails are best enjoyed in summer and autumn when the mountains are clear of snow. Deepen your experience of the region with introductory sections on the history of Provence, its plants and flowers, wildlife, regional specialities, and the art and literature inspired by this exceptional corner of southern France. Extend your walking with the companion volume, Walking in Provence: West, which together with this guide covers the full breadth of Provence's varied landscapes. Explore the wild landscapes, ancient villages, and dramatic gorges of eastern Provence with confidence using this trusted Cicerone guidebook. From the Mediterranean coast to the high peaks of the Mercantour, this is the essential companion for walking in one of France's most beautiful and varied regions.