I was tired after yesterday’s efforts up and down hills around Ste Croix de Caderle and so Day 20 of Travel in France started late morning. LaSalle was crammed with people – Monday Market Day – and the only main street is one car wide. Then there was an accident – probably someone driving too fast, very common around here. Finally we parked the car next to the cemetery above Soudorgues and set off for the Col de Cabane Vieille on the GR63
We followed the red route, but the circuit can be extended by following the blue lines. The path started on a paved road before climbing the hill on an easy path with views down into the valley on the left. Soon we reached the top, and a major crossroads.
The point of this walk is to enjoy the views from the pass, where you should linger amongst the scent of heather, herbs, and broom, and sit and watch the changing colours.
The second part of the walk, towards the Col de Mercou, was difficult – narrow and slippery, with limited views of the hills and valleys beyond. The path has been eroded by rain and the digging of the sangliers.
The third section, back to Soudorgues, had previously been easy but there was considerable damage here too, with walls broken down and loose stones on the path. I will show you the nice bits only – I was too busy concentrating on where to put my feet to photograph anything else!
The Auberge in Soudorgues provided a cold drink before heading back to St Hippo to buy honey and then to the gîte, a book, and the sunshine!
You may be interested in
Photographs of walks in this area
The Church
Managing the land, and farming
The Maquis in this area
I would love to hear from you!