In the Footsteps of Saint Mary Magdalene

from Gémenos to Plan d’Aups

Stage 9

Now you’ve crossed the Massif du Garlaban, you’ll soon have another hill range in your sights: the Massif de la Sainte-Baume. This stage promises to delight pilgrims as it leads to a sacred site – the cave where Saint Mary Magdalene lived out her last years as a hermit.

Stage profile

Length: 19 km
Ascent: 1245 m – Descent: 717 m
Duration: 6h20
Level of difficulty: fairly difficult

On your way: Landscapes and relief

You set off from Gémenos along the same path as Saint Mary Magdalene. The trail passes through vegetation similar to that of the other stages, with some Alpine influences in the Sainte-Baume Regional Nature Park. Pass by the torrent du Fauge and enjoy the freshness of the exceptional natural environment of the Sainte-Baume massif, the backdrop to this hike. Once over the Col du Fauge, you’re back in the mountains. Keep the Saint-Pilon chapel in your sights, and shortly after the pass, you’ll see the Parisiens chapels. Behind the Pas de la Cabre, the grotto of Saint Mary Magdalene welcomes you. The magnificent forest opens its arms and you reach the Hostellerie. A 360° panoramic view from the Chapelle du Saint-Pilon, stretching from the Mediterranean to the Alps.

chemin-des-roys-chapelle-st-pilon--jean-marc-prieur-pnr-saintebaume.jpg

Must-see sights: Keep your eyes peeled

The natural scenery on this stage is rich, but so is the cultural and religious heritage. Stroll through the narrow streets of Gémenos, a town full of character with its 16th-century castle and, above all, the Abbey of Saint-Pons. The highlight of the stage is undoubtedly the grotto of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, in the Plan d’Aups forest, frequented by more than 40 sovereigns from Saint-Louis (1254) to Louis XVI (1660), thanks to the paths of the Kings from the Basilica. Catholics flock here in droves, as the saint is said to have lived here for the last 30 years of her life. This must-visit site in the Var is a natural site and spiritual sanctuary of great beauty.

Where to sleep?

You’ll find some great addresses at the heart of the Sainte-Baume hills, a stone’s throw from the cave. The Hostellerie de la Sainte-Baume is a unique address nestling at the heart of the Sainte-Baume Regional Nature Reserve, boasting both top-comfort rooms and dormitories. The Dominican monks who run the Hostellerie also serve delicious dinners to recharge your batteries after your hike in the Var area. Tranquillity and spirituality are also on the menu at Domaine Saint-Roc Estello. This religious haven, offering group accommodation, is set in magnificent 7.5-acre grounds and features dormitories and bathrooms for relaxing and freshening up after your visit to the Sainte-Baume Sanctuary. Another great address: Maison Rouge boasts chic guest rooms tucked away in the countryside of Provence. Last but not least, the Hôtel Lou Pèbre d’Aï, complete with grounds, a pool and, especially, superb cuisine, all in beautiful surroundings inviting peaceful contemplation, promises to please.

Find out more

Practical info

Contact: Office de Tourisme La Provence Verte – Carrefour de l’Europe 83170 Brignoles / +33(0)4 94 72 04 21 / https://www.la-provence-verte.net/ – contact@provenceverte.fr

Top addresses

Hostellerie de la Sainte Baume (maison d'accueil religieuse)HOTEL - RESTAURANT

The Hostelry in Saint Baume is not a classic hotel. It is a religious house held by friars, the Dominicans. They received : Individuals, couples and families, groups: diocese,...

Plan-d'Aups-Sainte-Baume

Domaine Saint-Roc Estello

Lou Pèbre d'AïHOTEL - RESTAURANT

In the heart of the Sainte Baume massif. Master chef.

Plan-d'Aups-Sainte-Baume

Maison RougeBED & BREAKFAST

House built by journeymen carpenters in an elegant country style.

Plan-d'Aups-Sainte-Baume

He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” . Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.”. Jesus said to her, “Mary.”. She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”). (John 20, 15-16)

Words from the Gospels to meditate on

See the "Step by Step" directions