Traveler Description
This majestic mountain was the subject of several Paul Cezanne paintings.

Address: Route du Tholonet

Traveler Reviews

Best public transport value
Reviewed by A TripAdvisor Member on Apr 3, 2008


This is a stunning mountain which was so beloved of Cezanne for its changing perspectives. The south side is dry, white and dramatic while the north is more wooded. It is indeed true, and something that was so fascinating to Cezanne, that its profile differs from every angle. From the centre of Aix it is often totally invisible and then suddenly instantly present. But the most important thing for green travellers to know is that a minibus called La Victorine travels regularly from outside L'Office de Tourisme, Place de la Rotonde, to both sides of the mountain. The cost is a staggering 1.10 euros (stet) single and, if you take the southern route to Puyloubier, will convey you 18 kilometers through lovely scenery. It is worth finding a good map of all the walking routes and get off at an approprriate stop but; if you simply want to go the whole way, you will find a pretty village with petanque and vineyards with wine from the pipe available to buy, sometimes. A word of caution. The two cafes are often closed, especially in winter, so take your own provisions just in case.You will also need to take water. There is a restaurant but it is not always open, The northern route to Vauvenargues, where Picasso spent his last years, is equally attractive and cheap. I hope you will avoid car hire for these two day trips and use the fantastic public transport.

stunning
Reviewed by A TripAdvisor Member on Sep 29, 2006


As you drive out of Aix-en-Provence heading east on the D17, the mountain comes up out of nowhere. I wish we had left more time just to hike and wander around, but even a short hike was the perfect antidote to the parking and traffic nightmare around Aix. We drove along the south side, where there are good parking lots and not-so-helpful hiking maps. The trails are good, however, and we found Cezanne's refuge in spite of ourselves. Stopped in Puyloubier afterwards, from which you can apparently hike up to the 11th c. Ermitage St-Ser. We only had time for pizza though, at the Cafe Ste Victoire, which is right on the main street through town. If it is getting dark and you see a bar with a bunch of guys watching TV, that is it - walk through and up the stairs for some fantastic pizza.