Hiking at Gros Cerveau
On the summits, between land and seaHiking west of the Toulon mountains
High aboveOllioules, this hike in the Gros Cerveau massif offers superb panoramic views of the hills and Mediterranean coastline. Departing from the observatory parking lot, you walk through the limestone massif on undulating paths, between forest, garrigue and scree. Depending on your fitness level, you can choose to hike the short circuit or the long circuit to reach the summit and the Gros Cerveau structure.
5 good reasons to hike Gros Cerveau
- Hike at sunrise or sunset to take in the sights
- See the villages of Provence perched on the hills
- Marvel at the panoramic view of the Mediterranean coastline
- Meet the Rove goats at the summit
- Appreciate the recent restoration of the Gros Cerveau fort
Two circuits, one starting point
The two hiking trails have a single starting point: the Gros Cerveau astronomical observatory parking lot. Once you’ve decided on your route, either the short circuit of around 9 km (approx. 3h30 walk) or the long circuit of over 15 km (approx. 5h30 including lunch break), cross the road to take the GR 51 towards La Cadière d’Azur. Wooden signposts show you the way.
Our advice
Whether it’s at sunrise, when the massif awakens and the golden light mixes with the light morning mist, or when the sun sets and the islands and calanques turn orange, pink and purple, the spectacle is majestic. What’s your favorite time to go hiking?
Provence postcard
This hiking itinerary takes youfrom views of the hinterland and hills – the Destel gorges, Evenos sandstone, perched villages – to plunging views of the coastline of the Cassis creeks and the islands of Les Embiez and Porquerolles. Along the way, you may come across a few friendly Rove goats, making for a memorable photo break.
These two trails are quite strenuous, and the presence of scree and lapiaz – tricky passages on the cliffside – call for the utmost caution. Remember to bring plenty of water, as you won’t find any on the way. Depending on the route you choose, you can picnic on the picnic tables, in the shade or in the sun, depending on the season. You should also check the weather conditions before setting off.
Focus on
l’ouvrage du Gros Cerveau
At the summit of your hike, at an altitude of 436 metres, you can’t miss the imposing Gros Cerveau structure. Built in 1890, this pentagonal former military building is currently being restored by the commune of Sanary-sur-Mer. The Gros Cerveau hill links the communes of Ollioules and Sanary-sur-Mer.
The Gros Cerveau structure, closed to the public for many years, will soon be welcoming school groups to raise awareness of environmental protection.
To the observatory
By car from the A50 freeway and exit 13 or 14, head for Ollioules town center, then Gros Cerveau via rue Renée Cassin. Follow the “Route du Gros Cerveau” along the hills of Ollioulaise, direction “Station de renouvellement des eaux Hugueneuve” and “Observatoire” to the astronomical observatory parking lot, where you can park your vehicle.
The trailhead can be reached on foot from Ollioules town center via the GR51.