The Mule Trail

Description

A walk along the old mule paths takes you from the edge of the lake to the plateau to enjoy a breathtaking view! Between the history of the Verdon, the flora, and the landscapes, you will also discover traces of the old agriculture, (small sheds, dry-stone wall terraces...) and recent agriculture (cereal production and lavender on the plateau) not to mention magnificent view on the lake of Sainte Croix. From the parking lot, follow the road along the lake towards the nautical base and the campsite (chemin de Paraloup), on the left. Walk along the small road for 800m by the lake. There are a few dry-stone walls, olive trees, and picnic areas. 1- At the intersection, continue on the small road straight ahead. Continue for 800m to the Mule trail on the plateau. 2- Climb to the left the trail along a rump. Higher up (109m in height), at the intersection, go up the road on the left, crossing it. 3- At the end of the climb, go left for about 150m on the trail along the plateau, edge of field. Descend to the left on the marked route (PR). Reach the road at point 1 and return to the starting point by the road taken on the way.

Difficulty

Official rating: moderate, by Parcs naturels régionaux de Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.

Before you go

• Avoid the strong summer heat (south facing path is exposed!). Take 2L of water per person, a hat, and walking shoes. Preferred seasons: spring and fall.

Getting there

Start: Devant la mairie, Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon (04).

Sources

• Track: Parcs naturels régionaux de Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur (Chemins des Parcs), Licence Ouverte 2.0, Licence Ouverte 2.0 (Etalab) (www.cheminsdesparcs.fr/trek/54240-SAINTE-CROIX-DU-VERDON---Le-sentier-des-Muletiers). Time estimated by GPX Path with the Mac app rule, breaks not included.
• Official elevation gain: 180 m, Parcs naturels régionaux de Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur