Autumn, with its flamboyant landscapes and mild climate, is the ideal season to explore the magnificent trails of Grande Avignon. Two Grande Randonnée trails (known as GR by those in the know) stand out for exploring this region: the GR42 and the GR63. These routes immerse you in nature, while allowing you to discover historical sites and picturesque villages.
Between the Côtes du Rhône vineyards and historic monuments
Trail 1: The famous GR42
Le GR42, 450 km long, connects Saint-Étienne to Grau-du-Roi, crossing varied landscapes and emblematic sites of France. In Grand Avignon, stages 16 and 17 take you to discover towns rich in history and natural beauty.
step 16
From Saint-Laurent-des-Arbres to Villeneuve-lez-Avignon
- 20 km
- About 5 hours of walking
Your journey begins at Saint-Laurent-des-Arbres, a village surrounded by vineyards, famous for its historical heritage, including the tower and the Romanesque church. Leaving this charming village, you cross the commune of Roquemaure, renowned for its Lirac appellation. Take the time to stroll through the narrow streets of the old town and enjoy a tasting in local cellars.
For a nature break, Miémart Island offers an ideal setting for a picnic, with its preserved space close to the historic center. If you prefer a more hearty lunch, the Auberge de Miémart will delight you with its fresh and generous dishes.
The hike then continues towards Sauveterre and Pujaut, passing through the Caderache massif. There, the typical Mediterranean vegetation surrounds you, and you will have the opportunity to discover the “Rock Trouca“, a rock pierced by erosion offering a breathtaking view, framed like a natural painting. With a little luck, you might even see wild goats frolicking on this site!
Your day ends at Villeneuve lez Avignon, where you can enjoy theProvençal atmosphere of this historic city, and choose from a wide range of accommodation to spend the night.
step 17
From Villeneuve-lez-Avignon to Aramon
- 16 km
- About 3 hours of walking
Before continuing your hike, take the time to discover the treasures of Villeneuve lez Avignon, especially the Fort St-Andre Saint-André Abbey and its sumptuous gardens or, the Philip the Fair TowerThese monuments offer spectacular views of Avignon, Mont Ventoux, and the Alpilles.
As you return to the path, you will cross Les Angles, with its old hilltop village and its orientation table which allows you to contemplate the surroundings. The path will then take you through the vineyards and scrubland, passing through Rochefort-du-Gard and Saze, before arriving in Aramon, a town with a rich historical heritage.
Aramon marks the end of this stage of the GR42, where you can admire the 17th century mansions and the castle that belonged to Diane de Poitiers.
through the Gard scrubland
Trail 2: The GR63, in the footsteps of Urbain V
The GR63, also known as the “Urban Trail V”, is a long hike that crosses landscapes of scrubland and vineyards, following in the footsteps of Pope Urban V.
A historical link with Avignon and Villeneuve lez Avignon
Avignon, famous for its Palais des Papes and its majestic ramparts, is the focal point of this historic journey. The neighboring town of Villeneuve lez Avignon, with its Fort Saint-André and its Chartreuse, reinforces this link between papal history and the region. These two towns, separated by the Rhône, offer hikers a decor rich in heritage, with spectacular panoramas from the Rocher des Doms in Avignon, where we can see the landscapes they are about to explore.
Section 16
From Rochefort-du-Gard to Castillon-du-Gard
- 13 km
- About 4h
Across the Gardoises Garrigues, section 16 of the GR63 is one of the most enchanting of this route, linking Castillon-du-Gard to Rochefort-du-Gard passing through Saint-Hilaire-d'Ozilhan. This 13 km segment, bathed in the golden light of autumn, crosses the scrubland and vineyards, offering splendid views of lands of changing hues. Hikers will discover landscapes typical of the south of France, where the scents of thyme and rosemary mingle with the bright colors of the vineyards in autumn.
Saint-Hilaire-d'Ozilhan, a small picturesque village nestled in the heart of this unspoiled nature, is a essential stepIts narrow streets and stone houses reflect the authenticity of the region, while the surrounding vineyards produce renowned local wines, which travelers can savor along the way.
The Notre-Dame de Rochefort-du-Gard sanctuary: A unique spiritual break
Perched on a promontory, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Rochefort-du-Gard offers an incredible view of the surrounding plain. This sacred place, a true haven of peace, invites pilgrims and hikers to a spiritual pause. To reach its summit, you will follow a stations of the cross, its famous "sacro monte", commemorating the Passion of Christ, through 14 stations. Beyond beliefs, this circuit is a meditative journey in the heart of one of the most beautiful sites of the destination.
This sanctuary is also a high place of pilgrimage, since it was the scene of more than 70 miracles documented since the XNUMXth century, including miraculous healings.
Looking for a unique experience?
A night at the sanctuary is an option not to be missed!
Although reserved for pilgrims, this night offers a full immersion in a setting filled with serenity, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Falling asleep under the stars, to the sound of prayers whispered and surrounded by history, is an unforgettable experience that adds an extra dimension to this adventure already rich in discoveries.
The GR63 is therefore more than a hike; it is an invitation to discover a territory where nature, history, and spirituality meet, offering a new wonder with each step. Whether you are passionate about history, a nature lover, or simply seeking tranquility, this path offers you a unique journey through time and space.
These two hiking routes, the GR42 and GR63, are perfect for discovering le Grand Avignon in autumnThe landscapes are adorned with shimmering colors, the villages come alive to the rhythm of the grape harvest, and history is revealed at every step.
Whether you are a heritage lover, a nature lover or simply looking for peace and quiet, these hikes will offer you moments of escape and discovery, in a region rich in natural and cultural treasures. So, prepare your walking shoes and set off on an adventure on the trails of the Grand Avignon !
Do not hesitate to also consult all our proposals for hiking or cycling tours but also our ideas for walks !
You may also like...
More fall adventures!
Need inspiration? Check out our special articles autumn in Provence !
Themes
