The peak of the Chiran Mountain

Description

The summit of Chiran, its astronomical observatory and its panoramic views of the Alpine peaks. Located just opposite the Mourre de Chanier (highest point of the Regional Natural Park of Verdon, at 1 930m), Mount Chiran (1 905m), topped by its astronomical observatory, and its ascension are the highlights for a hiker. The particular geological formations in this sector have modeled remarkable landscapes. You will reach the alpine pastures and discover the traces of pastoralism throughout the hike. From the parking lot, head down to the village of Blieux for 200m until you reach a wooden sign saying "Portail de Blieux et Sommet du Chiran". 1 - Take the path on the right by a small concrete bridge. Five metres after the bridge, leave the main path leading to the house and take a small trail around it to the right. The climb begins quickly. In a short series of hairpin bends,you will discover the rare lavender fields of the pre-Alpine area. Continue climbing the path which can sometimes be steep, with multiple bends but occasionally flat, then around a corner, we can glimpsethe waterfalls of "la Clue". Pass along the right side of the canyon, after crossing several rocks. After this rocky landscape, pass, at the crest, the Robine canal before regaining further up some grazing areas. Follow the path, on a traverse, towards Portail de Blieux. 2 - At the mountain pass (Portail de Blieux, 1 620m),reach the track at the top and through it, reach the top of the Chiran (300m of elevation over 2.9km). 3 - At the top, a reading table will allow you to enjoy the panoramic views of the Alpine peaks. The same route is used for the return.

Difficulty

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

Before you go

• We recommend at least 2 L of water per person, a hat and proper walking shoes. Make sure to close the gates, you are on pasture lands. If you cross paths with herding dogs, otherwise known as mountain dogs, go around the herd quietly. (Read the recommendations provided in the web links)

Getting there

Start: Le Bas Chaudoul, Blieux, Blieux (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/19709-BLIEUX---Le-sommet-du-Chiran). Time estimated by GPX Path with the Mac app rule, breaks not included.
• Official elevation gain: 939 m, Parcs naturels régionaux de Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur