Hiking - L'EPINE - Le Duffre

This hike takes you to the highest point of the Baronnies and offers an exceptional 360° view over the entire Southern Alps.

“Climbing the roof of the Baronnies is no easy feat. While the start of the hike is quite easy, the ascent to Le Duffre is a little less so. The meadows on the Sarcéna and Aup ridges are teeming with an exceptional diversity of flora. Up there, you feel a sense of peace, and the wind cools you down during the climb. Once you reach the summit, a breathtaking landscape unfolds before you.” Léo MICHELET, intern at the Baronnies Provençales Regional Natural Park.

• Before waypoint 1: be sure to close the fence gates after you pass through.


• Before waypoint 6: the descent is quite steep.


• RESPECT THE TRANQUILITY of the area. Avoid shouting and do not use sound devices (radios, etc.), out of respect for other users and for the peace of the local wildlife, especially during breeding and wintering periods when animals are much more vulnerable. 


• Avoid picking wild plants: some of them are protected species.


• Part of the route is very exposed to the sun. Bring the necessary gear (water, hat, sunscreen, etc.) on hot summer days. It's best to start early in the morning to avoid the hottest hours of the day.


• WARNING: PASTORAL AREA on the trail: if you encounter livestock guardian dogs, do not pet or threaten them. Stop, then wait patiently for them to "inspect" you before calmly continuing on your way, bypassing the flock as much as possible. It is preferable not to bring your own dog; if you do, keep it on a leash. Remember to close any gates behind you.


• FIRE RISK. Fire is the enemy of the forest… and the hiker! Do not smoke in the forest and do not light any fires, especially since it is forbidden in any season! During the summer, before setting out on a hike, check the conditions and regulations for access to forested areas.