Col de Garlaban (628m) walks

Circuit following in Marcel Pagnol's footsteps, passing by the Baume du Plantier (Manon’s Cave) then reaching the legendary Garlaban. The return journey passes by the peak of Taoumé and Grosibou Cave and ending with the Vallon de Passe-Temps.

This is an exciting hike that combines the appeal of hiking with cultural interest. Throughout the circuit, you will discover the locations where Marcel Pagnol's works were filmed. In addition, at the top of Garlaban, the view is breathtaking, with a 360° panorama of Marseille, the Mediterranean Sea and the beginning of the Côte d'Azur, as well as the surrounding landscape, including La Sainte-Victoire and the Sainte-Baume mountain range.

Have you heard of the rock carvings in the Garlaban massif? This route takes you there, where you can admire them in peace. The path is not easy, but it offers beautiful views of the mountains surrounding Marseille and the Bellons. On the way down, you will discover the Baume du Plantier (Manon's cave), the Vallon des Piches, the Ferme d'Angèle and the Puits de Raimu.

A beautiful loop with spectacular views at the top and a return via the Vallon des Piches, which offers views over the whole of Marseille.

Set off to discover these famous places in the Aubagne region: Puits de Raimu, Mas de Massacan, Col d'Aubignane, Pierres gravées de Louis Douard, Col et Sommet du Garlaban, Puits du Mûrier, Baume Sourne, Pic du Taoumé, Grotte de Grosibou, Pas du Loup and Pierre Gravée du Berger, Jas de Batisto, Tête Ronde, Barres du Saint Esprit and the ruins of the village of Aubignane from the film Regain.

A challenging 16 km circular route to discover the summit of Garlaban via the Scolopendres trail, the Barquieu spring near the Grand Ravin and the corniches of the Grand Vallon, the Puit de l'Aroumi via the Puits du Murier and Baume Sourne, which can be visited in full sunlight or with a powerful torch. Finally, the Pic du Taoumé and the famous Grosibou cave. Return via the Pas du Loup towards the Col d'Aubignane.

This hike will allow you to discover a large part of the Garlaban massif. In my opinion, it is one of the most beautiful. The views from the peaks are superb. From the summit of Grande Tête Rouge, you can see all of Marseille from Callelongue to L'Estaque, and from Garlaban, the Gulf of La Ciotat and Cassis.