From La Roquette to the Crau des Mayorques

From La Roquette to the Crau des Mayorques

Hike in Cheval-Blanc: an 8.9 km loop through a wild ravine, pastoral trails, and stunning views over the Durance Valley from the Crau des Mayorques.

84460, Cheval-Blanc

Page updated on 21/11/2025

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A wild and pastoral loop

✔ Loop trail

✔ Distance: 8.9 km

✔ Yellow PR trail markers

 

Passage de la Libaude on the Crau des Mayorques, panoramic trail of the Luberon in Cheval-Blanc

Panoramic view of the Petit Luberon from the Crau des Mayorques, wild and open landscape

Around the hamlet of La Roquette on the Crau des Mayorques, nature hikes in Cheval-Blanc


Starting from the old school in the hamlet of La Roquette in Cheval-Blanc, this 8.9 km loop invites you to explore a wild and contrasting side of the Luberon. Right from the start, the trail climbs into the preserved Roque Rousse ravine, where narrow cliffs shelter a discreet and fragile biodiversity. The atmosphere becomes rocky, with passages between boulders and Mediterranean undergrowth.

As you gain elevation, the path reaches the Crau des Mayorques plateau, a vast pastoral area where sheep graze among almond trees and scrubland. From this natural promontory, the view opens widely over the Durance Valley, offering a remarkable panorama stretching from the Alpilles to the agricultural plains.

The descent follows the Croupatas trail, a stony and winding path, before entering a pine-shaded valley and gradually returning to the peaceful surroundings of La Roquette.

This hike is a true immersion into authentic Provence, shaped by farming, grazing, and the rugged relief of the western Luberon, in the heart of Cheval-Blanc.

When to go?

The itinerary can be enjoyed all year round, but it reveals its most beautiful contrasts in spring and autumn when the vegetation is lush and the light enhances the contours of the Petit Luberon.

In summer, temperatures can be high on exposed ridges and shade is scarce on certain sections. Plan a morning start and avoid the hottest hours between 12 pm and 4 pm.

Before you set off, check the access conditions to forest areas, regulated from 15 June to 15 September depending on fire risk.

Points of interest and itinerary

Practical information

  • Start point: Parking lot of the old school, La Roquette district, Cheval-Blanc
  • Elevation gain: +340 m
  • Duration: around 2h45
  • Level: Athletic (rocky passages, technical downhill sections)

Highlights along the trail

  • The wild Roque Rousse ravine
  • The ruins of Pétrossi and the Mayorques farm
  • The Crau des Mayorques plateau
  • The Croupatas passage
  • A spectacular panorama over the Durance Valley

Discover the full itinerary

Panoramic view from La Roquette in Cheval-Blanc, overlooking the limestone ridges and the Petit Luberon forest

 

Prepare for your hike

Practical advice

  • Wear suitable shoes: the trail includes rocky sections, technical descents and stone ledges.
  • Bring at least 1.5 L of water per person, especially in summer.
  • Protect yourself from the sun: hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential.
  • Avoid hiking during the hottest hours (12 pm - 4 pm); start early in the morning instead.
  • No shade on the plateau: the upper part is highly exposed to sun.
  • Download the hiking sheet and GPX track before leaving.

Fire prevention & safety

  • This trail crosses the Petit Luberon National Forest, classified as a sensitive area.
  • Fires, smoking and camping are strictly prohibited throughout the massif.
  • From June 15 to September 15, access may be restricted depending on fire risk.
  • Check the daily map here: www.risque-prevention-incendie.fr/vaucluse
  • For more info: +33 (0)4 28 31 77 11.
  • In case of fire, call 18 or 112 immediately.

Nearby

Why not extend the adventure?

After this challenging loop around the Crau des Mayorques, experienced hikers can continue exploring the southern slopes of the Luberon by following the Trou du Rat Trail. Longer (14 km) and more technical, this route offers a true immersion in the garrigue, with dramatic cliffs, pastoral landscapes, and shaded sections through the Roque Rousse valley.

See all hikes

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Practical information on From La Roquette to the Crau des Mayorques

Opening times and periods

Aucune information disponible

Price(s)

Free of charge.

Informations

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