Right from the start, the trail slaloms between rocks and chestnut trees. Then the blocks get taller, leaning against each other, forming faults. On the outskirts of the King’s Chamber (Chambre du Roi), the rock formations are so precarious that one wonders how they hold together – impressive!
With every step, you have the vague impression that an elf or goblin is about to appear before you. You notice strange shapes on the rocks, and the forest seems inhabited.
And there, you step into the legend. That of a king and a traitor, whose ghost wanders the nights of the full moon…here hides a mysterious chamber, will you find it? The passageways are so narrow that your children can play at being wall-walkers. And in front of this staircase that seems to lead nowhere, you’ll be tempted to say “Open Sesame” – you never know!
Beyond the King’s Chamber, a monumental profile emerges from the rock. Can you see it?
The locals call him Lou gardian.
In this tangle of shapes, sculptures take shape: a face, a giant spoon, elsewhere a gargoyle. Yet no artist residencies on the horizon. It’s just the work of wind and rain over the millennia. You move a few meters, a breath of wind and pfutt … everything disappears. The rock seems to be sculpted by your imagination.
The flora in spring and the colors of the chestnut grove in autumn.
Even if the trail is largely shaded, your hike will be more pleasant.
Because we can’t get enough of it, and we like to share it with others.
The Annot sandstone formations are not located in a restricted area; pets are allowed. Of exceptional biological and scenic interest, they are designated as a Sensitive Natural Area.
This site requires your full respect for two reasons: first, it is fragile, and second, it consists of private parcels of land.
If you plan to do the 3 h loop after heavy rain, the presence of sloping marly areas can make the trail slippery. In this case, we advise you to start your hike on the Vers-la-ville path. Don’t forget your hiking poles.
You can park in the station car park of the Chemins de fer de Provence. If you’re doing the loop, we recommend parking in the village: you won’t have to go back up to the station to get your car at the end of the hike.
Bring a baby carrier if you plan to bring your youngest child along; be aware that some sections of the trail are uneven. The climb is steep and, in some places, exposed, so be sure to bring plenty of water.
Even though this hike may seem easy, hiking shoes are essential. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars.
Possible alternative: a 2-hour round trip to the King’s Chamber (Chambre du Roi), which avoids the wide but vertiginous passage through the cliff.
Outside the snow season
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