The Gorges du Caramy stretch for about 4.5 kilometres between Tourves and Mazaugues; the Baume Saint-Michel is evidence of use dating back to the early Neolithic. Mazaugues is located in the Sainte-Baume Regional Natural Park. The landscape and cultural history reveal themselves in different ways, from a hiking route along the Caramy to archaeological remains and historic buildings.

Gorges and trails along the Caramy

The Caramy has carved the Gorges du Caramy between Tourves and Mazaugues. A hiking route follows the river from its source near Mazaugues through the gorges to the Roman bridge at Tourves. Along the way, it passes through the Saut du Cabri canyon. This connects the river landscape with a specific destination near Tourves; the gorges themselves stretch for about 4.5 kilometres.

The Gorges du Caramy offer opportunities for walks, swimming, fishing and picnics. Seasonal access conditions may vary. If you are planning a swim or picnic, check the conditions in advance. This allows you to tailor your visit to the conditions at the time, without combining the valley’s different activities into a single outing.

Geological history and historic traces

The Baume Saint-Michel is a rock shelter in Mazaugues that has been used since the early Neolithic. Later, it served as a painted shelter and a place where local flint was worked. A small rock chapel dedicated to Saint Michael was also established at the Baume. The archaeological use of the site and the chapel represent different chapters in the area’s history.

For information and reservations for visits to the Baume Saint-Michel, call 04.94.86.39.24. Allow 1 hour and 30 minutes to visit the site. The medieval castle is also a historic landmark in the village and an important stop on the historical walking tour of Mazaugues.

Another historic trace is bauxite mining, which finally ceased in Mazaugues in the late 1980s. The restored Glacière de Pivaut adds another aspect to the area’s heritage: it is listed in the register of historic monuments. Visitors can therefore choose between archaeological, architectural and industrial themes, rather than just a single account of the area’s past.

Nature destinations and getting around

The Glacière de Pivaut is located in a protected natural area where notable insect and plant species can be observed. From the D95, access is via a car park and an interpretive trail with explanatory panels. The route combines a visit to the restored monument with information on site and views of the surrounding nature.

The Cirque des Escarettes is a limestone cirque above Mazaugues and the Vallon de l’Herbette. It is accessible only on foot via the GR99; the walk from the Caucadis car park is 5 kilometres. This access differs from that to the Glacière de Pivaut, which has a car park and an interpretive trail. Take the walk to the Cirque into account when planning your visit.

The Espace Sports Orientation des collines de Mazaugues offers another way to explore the landscape. It features four themed orienteering courses, with a guidebook, orienteering map, information panels, posts and question boxes. It caters both to families and to competitive athletes. Unlike the hiking route along the Caramy, the focus here is on several themed courses and the accompanying orienteering materials. Which option you choose depends on whether you would rather follow a riverside trail, reach a nature destination on foot or take on the orienteering courses.

Discover more destinations: Cuers, Vidauban, Ramatuelle, Sanary-Sur-Mer, Fréjus, Les Salles-Sur-Verdon, Ginasservis, Cabasse.

For the full travel guide: Var.