Hiking Provence’s Blue Coast
Here are some very thorough directions (with pictures) for those of us with directional disabilities to help you hike Provence’s Côte Bleue (Blue Coast) Trail without walking in circles trying to find that elusive trailhead. Trail markers are rare here, so keep these directions handy. Don’t miss the spectacular “Grotte Marine” water cave!
Hiking Provence’s Côte Bleue (Blue Coast) – Directions for the Perpetually Lost
I really should start a guide book series for those of us that were born with absolutely no sense of direction. There’s actually a real term for that – “Geographical Dyslexia,” or “Directional Disability” and it’s genetic (thanks Mom!). I personally could get lost in my backyard… Actually I did once, and NO I had not been drinking… Life before a GPS was awful, but even now with a GPS in hand I can still get lost!
Should you struggle as I do, here are some very thorough directions (with pictures) to help you hike the Côte Bleue Trail without walking in circles trying to find that elusive trailhead. Trail markers are rare here, and official maps do not always reference all trails, so keep these directions handy. GGG to the rescue!!!
The Calanques of the Côte Bleue, those fjord-like inlets carved into bright white limestone, are part of the lesser known stretch of coastline located west of Marseille in the protected “Parc Régional Marin de la Côte Bleue”. The region is called the “Côte Bleue” (Blue Coast) in reference to its tantalizing deep turquoise blue waters and is very popular with snorkelers and divers.
This is off the beaten track at its best! These hidden beaches are mostly unknown to tourists… This is where you will find the locals on any given sunny afternoon. Tiny quaint fisherman’s villages and pleasant petite ports, I love how authentic the area feels. Time really has stood still here…
The Saffron Fields of Provence… When you think of Saffron, you probably think of golden hues, exotic scents, and warm climates in faraway places. But Provence? Olives and Lavender, yes… But never once did I consider it as a viable Saffron growing territory. The Crocus bulbs that are responsible for Saffron (Crocus sativus (Iridaceae) have one very important soil requirement – excellent drainage. Crocus bulbs hate wet feet… So, after all, what better place than Provence with its rocky terrain and hot dry climate!
Have you heard of the Colorado Provencal? The Wild West in Provence? Imagine the stunning colors of Arizona’s Grand Canyon at dusk, and you will have an idea of the beauty awaiting you. Sands in infinte shades red, orange, yellow, and even white glow under the bright golden sun of Provence against a bright blue sky. A site created through the fantastic joint efforts of Mother Nature and Man.
