Walking in Provence - East : Alpes Maritimes, Alpes de Haute-Provence, Mercantour

Explore 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. Discover the dramatic Verdon Gorge, the Geological Reserve of Haute Provence, perched medieval villages, and ruined castles set against a backdrop rich in history and wildflowers. Eastern Provence offers an exceptional walking destination in every season. This comprehensive guidebook describes 30 circular day walks suitable for beginners and experienced walkers alike. 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. Explore dramatic mountain ridges, alpine lakes, deep river gorges, and the striking red rocks of the Estérel coastline, with highlights including the famous Sentier Blanc-Martel, Mont Mounier, Mont Pelat, and the Gorges de Daluis. Navigate with confidence using sketch maps for each route and downloadable GPX files to support your planning and navigation. Plan your 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. Seasonal guidance helps you choose the best time to walk, with coastal and lowland walks suitable year-round and high Mercantour trails best enjoyed in summer and autumn. Deepen your experience with introductory sections on the region's history, plants and flowers, wildlife, regional specialities, and the art and literature inspired by this exceptional corner of southern France.