Plan-D'aups-Sainte-Baume offers several distinct highlights: the medieval Chemin des Roys and trails to the Grotto, natural areas of the Sainte-Baume, and historic sites and exhibitions. When planning a hike, it is particularly helpful to distinguish between the short routes to the Grotto and a difficult, four-hour circular hike.

Getting to Know the Forest and Nature

The Sainte-Baume state forest covers more than 2,000 hectares. Its undergrowth has exceptionally high biodiversity. The sensitive natural area of La Brasque covers 88 hectares and is managed for public access and to protect and preserve the area. These areas offer nature enthusiasts different scales for orientation: an extensive forest and a smaller, sensitive area with its own management remit.

Trails to the Grotto and Panoramic Views

The Chemin des Roys starts near the Trois Chênes car park and leads to the Grotto in about 45 minutes to one hour. The GR 9 and the Chemin du Canapé can be reached near the Hostellerie and offer an alternative route to the Grotto; the walking time is about 30 to 45 minutes. The time ranges overlap at the 45-minute mark, making them much closer to each other than the walking time for the circular hike to Pic de Bertagne.

The medieval Chemin des Roys opened in 1295 and is lined with seven oratories. Those planning a longer hike can take the route to Pic de Bertagne, a difficult circular hike of four hours over 9.9 kilometres. It offers panoramic views from the Mediterranean to the Alps. Forest fire restrictions may affect access, so check current access conditions before setting out.

The Allée Royale also offers its own viewpoints: from there, you can see the Sainte-Baume cliffs, the Grotto of Mary Magdalene and the Chapelle du Saint-Pilon. The Allée Royale also has two picnic tables adapted to the needs of people with reduced mobility. From the Chapelle du Saint-Pilon, the 360-degree view stretches from the Mediterranean to the Provençal hinterland.

Pilgrimage History and Cultural Heritage

The Sainte-Baume sanctuary, including the Grotto of Mary Magdalene and the Chapelle du Saint-Pilon in Plan-D'aups-Sainte-Baume, was listed as a Monument historique by decree dated 24 July 2025. The combination of grotto and chapel makes this a specific point of interest for anyone interested in the religious and historical heritage of the Sainte-Baume.

Further architectural and archaeological details add to this picture: the Chapelle des Parisiens, also known as the Chapelle des Morts, was built in 1636 and restored in 2007. The altar stone of the Holy Virgin in Plan-D'aups-Sainte-Baume comes from a Gallo-Roman temple dedicated to the goddesses who protected the waters of Plan-d'Aups. The former Béthanie monastery was built against a rock face.

Exhibitions and Educational Activities

The former Béthanie monastery offers Christian educational sessions for all age groups; they are open to families and groups. As participation conditions may change, check in advance what applies to your visit. The Espace Le Corbusier displays original sketches signed by Le Corbusier. At the Espace Tourisme et Découverte de la Sainte-Baume – CIAP, you will find a permanent, interactive exhibition on the historical and natural heritage of the Sainte-Baume massif. Access details may change; check them before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Mazaugues, Bandol, Pourrières, Bargème, Rayol-Canadel-Sur-Mer, Cogolin, Seillans, Flayosc.

For the overview of the wider region: Var.