Path of the Penitents

From Place de la République, cross over the fountain and follow the urban signage for the Penitents' Discovery Trail. Continue up Rue Clovis Piscon, then turn left at Porte Saint-Cristol and, via Rue Saint-Roch, ascend to the Saint-Roch Chapel. This trail is the preferred route for discovering the unique puddingstone rock. It was formed millions of years ago by the consolidation of rock fragments torn from the uplifting Alpine chain. Erosion sculpted the cones and slabs that form the cliff from a thick layer of hardened Mio-Pliocene puddingstone. The path passes at the foot of the Penitents, which, according to legend, were monks petrified by Saint Donat for succumbing to the temptation of beautiful Moorish women. At the pass, take the path descending to the left towards the north-facing slope of the Penitents. By a series of wooden steps, descend under the oak trees, pass in front of 3 constructed viewpoints and rejoin the track at the foot of the hill.

Option: from the pass, possibility of doing the San Peyre loop. Total duration: 3h30, mileage: 4 km, elevation: 420 m.
Turn left and return by the main track towards the village of Les Mées. Pass in front of the “Tunnel de la mine” and by the rue du Rocher join the departure route.

Type : Marked loop

Distance : 4.5km

Elevation : 230m

Duration : 2h

Difficulty : Moderate

Max altitude : 600m