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Tour of the Provence Mines d'énergies North (Bouches-du-Rhône) |
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Starting in Gréasque, the trail climbs towards Mimet, the highest village in the Bouches-du-Rhône department, offering breathtaking views of the Étoile mountain range and the Sainte-Victoire massif. Descending towards Gardanne, hikers pass the remains of mine shafts, including the famous Yvon Morandat Shaft, which bear witness to centuries of lignite extraction. The route then crosses the landscapes of Meyreuil, where nature is reclaiming the former slag heaps, now covered with pine forests and fragrant garrigue. In Fuveau, the heritage takes on a more Provençal character with its steep, narrow streets and panoramic views over the Arc Valley, so beloved by the painter Paul Cézanne. Local biodiversity, characterized by kermes oak and wild thyme, flourishes on these lands once dedicated to coal mining.
The landscape of Provence Mines d'énergies Nord, located in the Pays d'Aix region, is a mosaic of limestone hills and gently rolling plains. This area, marked by its past as a lignite mining site, juxtaposes Provençal nature with discreet vestiges of industrial activity, such as vegetated spoil heaps. The flora is typically Mediterranean: fragrant garrigue, composed of thyme and rosemary, dominates the dry slopes, while Aleppo pine forests and holm oaks cover the higher ground. Reforestation areas are also found on former mining sites, creating a recovering ecosystem. The fauna is that of the Provençal maquis, rich in insects (cicadas), small reptiles, as well as wild boar and birds that nest in the pine forests, creating the bright, dry atmosphere characteristic of inland Provence.
Nearby paths:
It is advisable to follow the beacons all along your hike and to bring you the 
