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OVERVIEW

Just a skip away from the glitz and glamour of the French Riviera lies the alluring charm of the hidden gems in the Pays de Grasse. Tucked amidst the lush hills above Cannes, this region offers a delightful tapestry of verdant landscapes and captivating scents. Wander leisurely through rolling hills adorned with olive groves, fragrant herbs, and sun-kissed plateaus, leading you to some of the most enchanting villages: Gourdon, St Paul de Vence, and Tourrettes sur Loup. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty. Savour sweeping views from the snow-dusted peaks of the Alps to the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea while treating your palate to exquisite French fare and wine.

Embark on a 5-day excursion to revel in this haven of tranquility, brimming with fascinating history, architectural wonders, and awe-inspiring vistas. Inhale the crisp, rejuvenating air, explore the unspoiled backcountry of the French Riviera, and let the Pays de Grasse awaken your senses anew.

Highlights

  • The diverse and captivating landscapes of both the majestic mountain peaks and the deep blue Mediterranean sea
  • Awe-inspiring vistas over the French Riviera from clifftop vantage points
  • Authentic hilltop villages of Gourdon, St. Paul de Vence, and Tourrettes-sur-Loup
  • Visit the Picasso Museum and Forte Carré, where Napoleon was imprisoned
  • Indulge in delectable local specialties, savouring the flavours of the region
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of colourful markets, such as the Friday morning market in Vence and the Sunday morning market in Antibes

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
5 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.
PRICE FROM
$ 1255

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 495

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5

DAY 1
ARRIVAL IN PONT DU LOOP

Your journey begins with a scenic 30-minute afternoon transfer from Grasse to Pont du Loup, where you’ll spend the night. If you’re arriving from Nice airport, you can opt for a convenient 1-hour bus ride on the 650 route to Grasse, or take a slightly longer 1-hour and 10-minute train journey from Nice centre.

Consider arriving a day ahead to explore Grasse, renowned for its perfume heritage. Don’t miss the chance to delve into the fascinating world of fragrances at the International Perfume Museum and admire masterpieces at the cathedral, showcasing artworks by acclaimed painters like Rubens. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Provence at the Art & History Museum, offering insight into life in the region across different eras.

Walking: No scheduled walking for today
Accommodation: Pont Du Loup

 

 

DAY 2
LOOP GOURDON

Today offers two enticing options: embark on a hike to Gourdon and back, with the possibility of extending your journey with a short additional loop upon reaching Gourdon. From the village, follow the renowned Sentier du Paradis to reach one of France’s most picturesque villages. While the ascent is steep, the reward is ample – indulge in a satisfying meal and enjoy breathtaking panoramas stretching from the village’s edge to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and the iconic Gorges du Loup, where the river carves through deep ravines. For those seeking further adventure, consider adding a brief loop above Gourdon before retracing your steps back to the village. Spend the night in Pont du Loup, reflecting on the day’s unforgettable experiences

Walking:  7km or 11km
Elevation: +620m or +750m / -600m or -750m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Pont Du Loup

 

DAY 3
COURMES TO VENCE

Following breakfast, a short 15-minute transfer transports you to the heart of the Gorges du Loup, specifically to the quaint hamlet of Courmes. From this point, ascend on a steep and winding path, offering stunning views of the gorges. As you climb, you’ll reach the picturesque Plateau St Barnabé and its namesake hamlet, characterized by a scattering of charming houses. Begin your descent towards Vence, with the sparkling sea unfolding before you. Arrive in the lively and historic center of Vence, where you can explore The Chapelle Matisse. Spend the night here, soaking in the ambiance of this captivating town.

Walking: 14km / 4 hours
Elevation: +395m / -690m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Vence

DAY 4
HIKE IN VENCE AND TRANSFER TO ANTIBES

Today offers a plethora of options to suit your preferences. You can opt to unwind and take a break from hiking, meandering through the cobbled, narrow streets, discovering charming little squares, and savoring al fresco dining at one of the many restaurants. Alternatively, you can embark on one of the following hikes listed below for a day of adventure.

Easy hike: Commencing from the captivating historic center of Vence, your journey begins with a leisurely stroll through the serene Sine woods. As you venture forth, you’ll traverse a blend of mostly flat forested trails and paved roads. As you draw nearer to St. Paul de Vence, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking vista that unfolds before you. Along the way, take in the sight of charming small chapels dotted along the path.

Moderate hike: Tourrettes-sur-Loup, a picturesque medieval village nestled against a backdrop of rolling hills, awaits your exploration along the path from Vence. Passing through the enchanting woods of La Sine, you’ll eventually reach this charming destination, where you can immerse yourself in the timeless allure of the village.

Challenging hike: This hike presents a formidable challenge tailored for seasoned adventurers, yet the rewards are boundless, as the vistas unfold in all their splendor. Stretching from the snow-capped summits of the Alps to the azure expanse of the Mediterranean, the panoramic views are truly breathtaking.

Regardless of your choice, plan for a 45-minute afternoon transfer from Vence to Antibes, as today marks your transition from the hinterlands to the seaside. In Antibes, delve into the old town’s rich history, characterized by its ramparts along the sea and protective walls encircling the port. Lose yourself in the labyrinth of winding streets, explore enticing restaurants, peruse numerous shops, and don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Picasso Museum. Spend the night in Antibes, soaking in the coastal ambiance.

Walking: 4.5km or 8km or 12km / 1.5hrs or 2.5hrs or 4.5hrs
Elevation: +95m or + 320m or +712m / -240m or -280m or -712m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Antibes

DAY 5
LOOP CAP ANTIBES AND ONWARD TRAVEL

Following breakfast, embark on your final loop hike, marking the culmination of your tour. A public bus (ticket not included) conveniently transports you from the city centre to the starting point of your walk—a swift 20-minute ride to Cap d’Antibes. Your journey commences at Garoup Beach, famously favored by Fitzgerald. The coastal path unfolds before you, alternating between paved sections and rugged, untamed terrain. As the waves gently lap against the rocks, you’ll be treated to magnificent vistas—gazing westward towards the Lérins Isles and eastward to the majestic Baous of Vence and St. Jeannet, with the snow-capped peaks of the Alps looming in the distance. It’s a serene conclusion to your walking tour.

Upon completing your hike, catch the Nr 2 bus back to your hotel (a 20-minute ride) or opt for a leisurely stroll back to the centre of Antibes.  We recommend exploring the Picasso Museum and visiting the 16th-century Fort Carrée, where Napoleon was once imprisoned, to round out your experience in Antibes.

Walking: 4.5km / 1.5hrs
Elevation: +90m / -90m
Meals: Breakfast

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • 4 nights accommodation in hotels
  • 4 buffet breakfasts
  • Luggage transfers throughout the trip
  • Transport on day 1,3 and 4
  • Our comprehensive set of notes with detailed walking itineraries, integrated maps and insider tips (where to get the freshest baguettes, where to taste olive oil or wine)
  • Awe-inspiring vistas over the French Riviera
  • Authentic villages nestled in wooded valleys, surrounded by high mountains

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

The accommodation has been handpicked to reflect the character and history of the region. During this tour, you will spend each night in double occupancy rooms with private facilities. Chosen for its location, facilities and history, our accommodation in Pont Du Loup, Vence and Antibes is used to welcoming walkers. The hosts are very knowledgeable about the region and they will always be happy to chat with you about the history, food and wine. Of course, you can always call us too should you need anything during your walk. Upgrades are available on the last 3 nights – please call us if of interest.

You will be provided with 4 daily buffet breakfasts after each of the nights’ stays. With the wide variety of offerings at your fingertips, you can enjoy choosing whatever takes your fancy for lunch and dinner. Lunches are available at various cafes or food stores daily. There are numerous places to get dinner each night, your hosts will happily give you a list of recommendations. If you have any food allergies or intolerances please let us know at the time of booking so we can let your hosts know. Should you have severe food allergies, it’s always worth bringing a few of your own snacks with you.

We can easily add additional nights accommodation if you’d like to take more time to immerse yourself in this fabulous region.

  • Night 1 & 2

  • Night 3

  • Night 4

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE

Distance is not a major consideration in your training program. However, you should still incorporate some long walks as it will increase your cardiovascular fitness.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

MOUNTAINOUS / UNEVEN TERRAIN

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

GENERAL INFO

AVAILABILITY

March to November (Not July or August)

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

Travelling to the Start of the walk

The walk starts in Pont Du Loup at your first accommodation and ends in Antibes on the final morning at your accommodation. Please refer to your itinerary. You will need to get yourself to Grasse, most likely from Nice, and we will pick you up from Grasse station – so let us know when you will be arriving before departure.  From the end of your walk, you will need to organise your travel away from Antibes. To make it easy we have collated some useful information that will assist you in making arrangements for your travel.

By plane: The easiest option would be to fly into Nice and then catch the train or bus from Nice to Grasse. There are many airlines that fly from Paris to Nice. Below are possible websites that provide a number of different carriers to choose from.

https://www.kayak.com/flights 

www.google.com/flights

By train or bus: The train from Nice to Grasse will take around 1hr and will cost around AUD$20. Alternatively, you can catch the 650 bus from Nice to Grasse which will also take around 1hr and cost around AUD$6. Please find below ways to book.

https://www.thetrainline.com/en/train-times

https://en.oui.sncf/en/tgv

https://www.rome2rio.com/map/Bastia/Calvi

Travelling from the End of the walk

By train of bus: You can catch a train or bus from Antibes back to Nice which takes around 30 minutes.

https://www.thetrainline.com

https://en.oui.sncf/en/tgv

https://www.rome2rio.com/map/Bastia/Calvi

WALKING

The walk is moderate with some elevation, with full-day walks averaging about 9.5km. We highly recommend that you incorporate some extra time after the walk to rest but also to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty, savoring sweeping views from the snow-dusted peaks of the Alps to the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea, while treating your palate to exquisite French fare and wine.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice in our FAQ section.

WEATHER

From March the temperature begins to rise so be prepared for warmer days if you walk in summer. Shoulder season is by far the best time as the weather is perfect for walking and the added advantage of having fewer people around in the villages and on the coast (we walk away from the populated areas on the walk so crowds are not an issue.)

See the weather information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Mar 2024 - 5 Nov 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $1255

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $495

    Not available in July or August

    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Mar 2024 - 5 Nov 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $1395

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $495

    UPGRADED VERSION. Not available in July or August

    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Mar 2025 - 4 Nov 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $1305

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $515

    Not available in July or August

    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Mar 2025 - 5 Nov 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $1495

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $525

    UPGRADED VERSION. Not available in July or August

    BOOK NOW

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Overview

OVERVIEW

Just a skip away from the glitz and glamour of the French Riviera lies the alluring charm of the hidden gems in the Pays de Grasse. Tucked amidst the lush hills above Cannes, this region offers a delightful tapestry of verdant landscapes and captivating scents. Wander leisurely through rolling hills adorned with olive groves, fragrant herbs, and sun-kissed plateaus, leading you to some of the most enchanting villages: Gourdon, St Paul de Vence, and Tourrettes sur Loup. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty. Savour sweeping views from the snow-dusted peaks of the Alps to the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea while treating your palate to exquisite French fare and wine.

Embark on a 5-day excursion to revel in this haven of tranquility, brimming with fascinating history, architectural wonders, and awe-inspiring vistas. Inhale the crisp, rejuvenating air, explore the unspoiled backcountry of the French Riviera, and let the Pays de Grasse awaken your senses anew.

Highlights

  • The diverse and captivating landscapes of both the majestic mountain peaks and the deep blue Mediterranean sea
  • Awe-inspiring vistas over the French Riviera from clifftop vantage points
  • Authentic hilltop villages of Gourdon, St. Paul de Vence, and Tourrettes-sur-Loup
  • Visit the Picasso Museum and Forte Carré, where Napoleon was imprisoned
  • Indulge in delectable local specialties, savouring the flavours of the region
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of colourful markets, such as the Friday morning market in Vence and the Sunday morning market in Antibes

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
5 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.
PRICE FROM
$ 1255

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 495

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5

DAY 1
ARRIVAL IN PONT DU LOOP

Your journey begins with a scenic 30-minute afternoon transfer from Grasse to Pont du Loup, where you’ll spend the night. If you’re arriving from Nice airport, you can opt for a convenient 1-hour bus ride on the 650 route to Grasse, or take a slightly longer 1-hour and 10-minute train journey from Nice centre.

Consider arriving a day ahead to explore Grasse, renowned for its perfume heritage. Don’t miss the chance to delve into the fascinating world of fragrances at the International Perfume Museum and admire masterpieces at the cathedral, showcasing artworks by acclaimed painters like Rubens. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Provence at the Art & History Museum, offering insight into life in the region across different eras.

Walking: No scheduled walking for today
Accommodation: Pont Du Loup

 

 

DAY 2
LOOP GOURDON

Today offers two enticing options: embark on a hike to Gourdon and back, with the possibility of extending your journey with a short additional loop upon reaching Gourdon. From the village, follow the renowned Sentier du Paradis to reach one of France’s most picturesque villages. While the ascent is steep, the reward is ample – indulge in a satisfying meal and enjoy breathtaking panoramas stretching from the village’s edge to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and the iconic Gorges du Loup, where the river carves through deep ravines. For those seeking further adventure, consider adding a brief loop above Gourdon before retracing your steps back to the village. Spend the night in Pont du Loup, reflecting on the day’s unforgettable experiences

Walking:  7km or 11km
Elevation: +620m or +750m / -600m or -750m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Pont Du Loup

 

DAY 3
COURMES TO VENCE

Following breakfast, a short 15-minute transfer transports you to the heart of the Gorges du Loup, specifically to the quaint hamlet of Courmes. From this point, ascend on a steep and winding path, offering stunning views of the gorges. As you climb, you’ll reach the picturesque Plateau St Barnabé and its namesake hamlet, characterized by a scattering of charming houses. Begin your descent towards Vence, with the sparkling sea unfolding before you. Arrive in the lively and historic center of Vence, where you can explore The Chapelle Matisse. Spend the night here, soaking in the ambiance of this captivating town.

Walking: 14km / 4 hours
Elevation: +395m / -690m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Vence

DAY 4
HIKE IN VENCE AND TRANSFER TO ANTIBES

Today offers a plethora of options to suit your preferences. You can opt to unwind and take a break from hiking, meandering through the cobbled, narrow streets, discovering charming little squares, and savoring al fresco dining at one of the many restaurants. Alternatively, you can embark on one of the following hikes listed below for a day of adventure.

Easy hike: Commencing from the captivating historic center of Vence, your journey begins with a leisurely stroll through the serene Sine woods. As you venture forth, you’ll traverse a blend of mostly flat forested trails and paved roads. As you draw nearer to St. Paul de Vence, prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking vista that unfolds before you. Along the way, take in the sight of charming small chapels dotted along the path.

Moderate hike: Tourrettes-sur-Loup, a picturesque medieval village nestled against a backdrop of rolling hills, awaits your exploration along the path from Vence. Passing through the enchanting woods of La Sine, you’ll eventually reach this charming destination, where you can immerse yourself in the timeless allure of the village.

Challenging hike: This hike presents a formidable challenge tailored for seasoned adventurers, yet the rewards are boundless, as the vistas unfold in all their splendor. Stretching from the snow-capped summits of the Alps to the azure expanse of the Mediterranean, the panoramic views are truly breathtaking.

Regardless of your choice, plan for a 45-minute afternoon transfer from Vence to Antibes, as today marks your transition from the hinterlands to the seaside. In Antibes, delve into the old town’s rich history, characterized by its ramparts along the sea and protective walls encircling the port. Lose yourself in the labyrinth of winding streets, explore enticing restaurants, peruse numerous shops, and don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Picasso Museum. Spend the night in Antibes, soaking in the coastal ambiance.

Walking: 4.5km or 8km or 12km / 1.5hrs or 2.5hrs or 4.5hrs
Elevation: +95m or + 320m or +712m / -240m or -280m or -712m
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Antibes

DAY 5
LOOP CAP ANTIBES AND ONWARD TRAVEL

Following breakfast, embark on your final loop hike, marking the culmination of your tour. A public bus (ticket not included) conveniently transports you from the city centre to the starting point of your walk—a swift 20-minute ride to Cap d’Antibes. Your journey commences at Garoup Beach, famously favored by Fitzgerald. The coastal path unfolds before you, alternating between paved sections and rugged, untamed terrain. As the waves gently lap against the rocks, you’ll be treated to magnificent vistas—gazing westward towards the Lérins Isles and eastward to the majestic Baous of Vence and St. Jeannet, with the snow-capped peaks of the Alps looming in the distance. It’s a serene conclusion to your walking tour.

Upon completing your hike, catch the Nr 2 bus back to your hotel (a 20-minute ride) or opt for a leisurely stroll back to the centre of Antibes.  We recommend exploring the Picasso Museum and visiting the 16th-century Fort Carrée, where Napoleon was once imprisoned, to round out your experience in Antibes.

Walking: 4.5km / 1.5hrs
Elevation: +90m / -90m
Meals: Breakfast

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • 4 nights accommodation in hotels
  • 4 buffet breakfasts
  • Luggage transfers throughout the trip
  • Transport on day 1,3 and 4
  • Our comprehensive set of notes with detailed walking itineraries, integrated maps and insider tips (where to get the freshest baguettes, where to taste olive oil or wine)
  • Awe-inspiring vistas over the French Riviera
  • Authentic villages nestled in wooded valleys, surrounded by high mountains
Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

The accommodation has been handpicked to reflect the character and history of the region. During this tour, you will spend each night in double occupancy rooms with private facilities. Chosen for its location, facilities and history, our accommodation in Pont Du Loup, Vence and Antibes is used to welcoming walkers. The hosts are very knowledgeable about the region and they will always be happy to chat with you about the history, food and wine. Of course, you can always call us too should you need anything during your walk. Upgrades are available on the last 3 nights – please call us if of interest.

You will be provided with 4 daily buffet breakfasts after each of the nights’ stays. With the wide variety of offerings at your fingertips, you can enjoy choosing whatever takes your fancy for lunch and dinner. Lunches are available at various cafes or food stores daily. There are numerous places to get dinner each night, your hosts will happily give you a list of recommendations. If you have any food allergies or intolerances please let us know at the time of booking so we can let your hosts know. Should you have severe food allergies, it’s always worth bringing a few of your own snacks with you.

We can easily add additional nights accommodation if you’d like to take more time to immerse yourself in this fabulous region.

  • Night 1 & 2

  • Night 3

  • Night 4

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE

Distance is not a major consideration in your training program. However, you should still incorporate some long walks as it will increase your cardiovascular fitness.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

MOUNTAINOUS / UNEVEN TERRAIN

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

AVAILABILITY

March to November (Not July or August)

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

Travelling to the Start of the walk

The walk starts in Pont Du Loup at your first accommodation and ends in Antibes on the final morning at your accommodation. Please refer to your itinerary. You will need to get yourself to Grasse, most likely from Nice, and we will pick you up from Grasse station – so let us know when you will be arriving before departure.  From the end of your walk, you will need to organise your travel away from Antibes. To make it easy we have collated some useful information that will assist you in making arrangements for your travel.

By plane: The easiest option would be to fly into Nice and then catch the train or bus from Nice to Grasse. There are many airlines that fly from Paris to Nice. Below are possible websites that provide a number of different carriers to choose from.

https://www.kayak.com/flights 

www.google.com/flights

By train or bus: The train from Nice to Grasse will take around 1hr and will cost around AUD$20. Alternatively, you can catch the 650 bus from Nice to Grasse which will also take around 1hr and cost around AUD$6. Please find below ways to book.

https://www.thetrainline.com/en/train-times

https://en.oui.sncf/en/tgv

https://www.rome2rio.com/map/Bastia/Calvi

Travelling from the End of the walk

By train of bus: You can catch a train or bus from Antibes back to Nice which takes around 30 minutes.

https://www.thetrainline.com

https://en.oui.sncf/en/tgv

https://www.rome2rio.com/map/Bastia/Calvi

WALKING

The walk is moderate with some elevation, with full-day walks averaging about 9.5km. We highly recommend that you incorporate some extra time after the walk to rest but also to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty, savoring sweeping views from the snow-dusted peaks of the Alps to the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea, while treating your palate to exquisite French fare and wine.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice in our FAQ section.

WEATHER

From March the temperature begins to rise so be prepared for warmer days if you walk in summer. Shoulder season is by far the best time as the weather is perfect for walking and the added advantage of having fewer people around in the villages and on the coast (we walk away from the populated areas on the walk so crowds are not an issue.)

See the weather information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

Map

MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Mar 2024 - 5 Nov 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $1255

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $495
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Mar 2024 - 5 Nov 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $1395

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $495
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Mar 2025 - 4 Nov 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $1305

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $515
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Mar 2025 - 5 Nov 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $1495

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $525
    BOOK NOW
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