Nature escape: La Routo,
the Chapels trail
The week is coming to an end, the temperatures are pleasant, the weather is favorable, it's decided we're going with friends to get some fresh air. I put on a good pair of shoes, I prepare my backpack and off we go, heading for the Chapelles trail!
A trail steeped in history
In the enchanting meanders of the Provençal countryside, the trail of the Tarascon chapels takes shape like an Ariadne's thread linking past and present, spirituality and wild nature. This loop steeped in history, between shadow and light, takes us to discover small treasures scattered throughout the Alpilles.
We park at the Planet car park very close to the Saint-Gabriel chapel site, this car park is the starting and ending point for this walk. Once we have passed the barrier we follow the path on the left marked PR.
At the crossroads, we continue following the sign “Chapelle St-Gabriel 0,8 km”.
We pause for a moment to admire the chapel, perched on a steep hill at the eastern gateway to the Alpilles Regional Natural Park. It stands at the crossroads of the Via Domitia and Via Aurelia, amidst a forest of Aleppo pines and the ruins of Ernaginum. It is a true masterpiece of southern Romanesque art, particularly with its richly decorated portal. It has been listed as a Historical Monument since 1840.
Observe, listen, feel the nature around you
What a pleasure it is to walk in nature! It recharges your batteries, clears your mind, and gives you a new lease on life. After several minutes of walking, I recognize some familiar scents of the Provençal countryside, like thyme, which perfumes so many local recipes. As we continue our walk, I notice that the vegetation is sometimes dense with Aleppo pines, and sometimes sparse and open.
We can also hear the song of the cicadas accompanying us, enlivening this peaceful environment, far removed from any hustle and bustle. All my senses are alert and appreciate each discovery.
Nature at the service of nature
Did you know ? In the wild and preserved hills of the Alpilles, a fragile balance between man and nature has been perpetuated for centuries. Pastoralism, an ancestral practice, has shaped the landscape of the Alpilles and is not just limited to a tradition, but is of capital importance for the preservation of the ecosystem and the safeguarding of biodiversity, particularly against fires.
The Alpilles, with their rocky landscape and green valleys, are home to a unique diversity of flora and fauna. However, this delicate ecosystem is constantly threatened, especially during hot weather and when the mistral blows. By grazing, sheep, cattle and goat herds play a crucial role in vegetation management. Their selective diet promotes the growth of herbaceous plants while controlling the spread of invasive species. Their action also reduces the risk of fire by reducing the quantity of combustible material, which contributes to the safety of residents and the preservation of emblematic landscapes.
An original work surrounded by nature
I am struck by several depictions of goats made from natural materials. They are placed there, in the open countryside, and some measure over 2 meters. I learn that they were created by the Saint-Rémy artist, Yoann Crépin.
The step by step route
To accompany you throughout this walk, step by step, download the Chemins des Parcs application on your smartphone or go to the website and enter the name of the route.
Practical information and recommendations
Hiking
Duration: 5 hours – 14,4 km
Difficulty: medium
Type: Buckle
Choose this circuit when it is not too hot and there is not too much wind because this part of the massif is not very shaded and quite exposed to the mistral.
Adapt your clothing to the weather, bring enough water and avoid going alone.
Before setting off on any hike, between June 1st and September 30th, check the access to the forest areas, which is regulated by prefectural decree.
Ask the Tarascon Tourist Information Office to discover other walks.