Simiane-Collongue lies at an altitude of 235 metres in a hollow on the northern slope of the Chaîne de l’Etoile. Its location sets the scene for walks and excursions: forests cover about two thirds of the municipality, which has an area of 2,400 hectares. If you would like to combine a stay amid the landscape with a taste of village history, you will find both marked hiking routes and historic buildings, as well as insights into local life here.
Landscape and hiking trails
The landscape is considered typical of Provençal Mediterranean habitats. The garrigue includes kermes oaks, holm oaks, Aleppo pines and dry grasslands. The municipal area also includes ecological zones and protected area designations such as Natura 2000, ZNIEFF and ENS. There are numerous hiking trails in the municipal forest; walkers can collect drinking water at the Venel spring.
The hikes described vary considerably in duration and difficulty. The Simiane-Collongue / Mimet – Pilon du Roy & Baou Trauqua hike takes 2.5 hours, is considered moderately difficult and begins with a challenging climb. At Col des Ouides, a four-hour hike, also of moderate difficulty, follows a fairly steep climb to the pass; along the way, it offers a beautiful panorama. A shorter alternative is the Boucle de l’Horloge, an easy 20-minute circular walk. This makes it possible to compare the time required for the hikes without assuming they are equally demanding. As trail conditions can change, check the latest information before setting off.
The Balade dans le Canyon Provençal walk starts at the Simiane-Collongue Tourist Office and is done on foot. For planning purposes, both the starting point and the mode of travel are specified; access details may change.
Buildings, views and village life
The Tour de l’Horloge, also known as the Tour Sarrasine, stands on a rocky outcrop and is a preserved remnant of the former fortress of the lords of Collongue. From the viewpoint at the tower, you can see across the village and the entire valley as far as the Terril and Saint Victoire. Those interested in the history of the area can also visit the Château de Simiane: built at the end of the 18th century to replace the former Château de Collongue, it is considered the last example of a bastide built in Provence during the Ancien Régime.
The Cours des Héros offers a glimpse of local life. There is a market there year-round, along with other events; pétanque is also still played. As event times may change, it is advisable to check dates before visiting.
Visits and special interests
The Ferme des Marres is open to the public year-round without a reservation. You can check the latest visiting arrangements before you go. Visitors can observe farm animals, including cows, sheep, ponies, goats, donkeys and chickens, along the paths around the property. This offers a different way to spend time in the area than going for a hike or visiting the historic buildings.
The Benedictine community of the Sisters and Brothers of Simiane offers a place of silence, prayer and retreat. An exhibition of works from the community’s workshops is also on display. These include art weaving, batik and terracotta, as well as glass, mosaic, lamp and enamel work. If you are planning a visit, check the visiting arrangements in advance, as they may change.
A chapel also offers a specific visiting time: it is open to the public on the last Saturday of every month. Its altar includes a Roman cippus bearing an engraved funerary inscription, as well as a slab with a fifth-century low-relief vine motif; both elements are classified as historic monuments. Check the opening date in advance if you are planning your visit around it.
Discover more destinations: Graveson, Velaux, Aigues-Mortes, Pont De Crau Arles, Les-Pennes-Mirabeau, Peyrolles-En-Provence, Saint-Andiol, Boulbon.
For the broader travel guide: Bouches Du Rhone.
