Maquis Trail of Gordes via the Sénancole

Maquis Trail of Gordes via the Sénancole

Follow the Maquis trail of Gordes: a 10.3 km loop through wild gorges, WWII Resistance history, and stunning views of the Sénanque Abbey in the heart of the Luberon.

84220, Gordes

Page updated on 07/08/2025

In the footsteps of the Resistance in a breathtaking landscape

Loop trail

Distance: 10.3 km

GR® - GRP® - Yellow PR waymarking - Local PR

 

When to Go?

This hike can be done from spring to autumn, but the best seasons are spring and early autumn, when the light enhances the beauty of the gorges and there are fewer visitors.

 

In summer, plan an early morning start to enjoy the cool air of the Sénancole gorges. Make sure to bring plenty of water and wear shoes with good grip. After rain, some parts of the trail can become slippery.

Don’t forget to check the access conditions for forest areas before setting out.

View of the wild Sénancole gorges in Gordes

Maquis stele in Gordes honoring the 1944 resistance fighters

Limestone and garrigue landscape of the Luberon along the hiking trail


This hike starting from Gordes invites you to explore one of the major historical Resistance sites in the Luberon: the Maquis of the Sénancole. This waymarked loop trail alternates between unspoiled nature and remembrance, in the heart of the iconic landscapes of the Luberon Regional Natural Park.

From the center of Gordes, ranked among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, the route leads you to the Village des Bories and the wild valley of the Sénancole. You'll walk through holm oak forests, rugged paths, and rocky terrain, until you reach the Sénanque Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian masterpiece.

Along the trail, interpretive panels recount the history of the maquis and the tragic events of the summer of 1944. The Resistance memorial, erected in the valley, pays tribute to the fighters who gave their lives for freedom. A historic and nature-filled hike, perfect for combining exercise, culture, and remembrance in the Luberon.

With its technical sections and demanding terrain, this route is best suited for experienced hikers seeking an immersive experience between local history and landscape heritage.

Points of interest and itinerary

Practical Information

  • Start: Place du Château, Gordes
  • Elevation gain: +407 m
  • Duration: 3h30
  • Level: Intermediate (rocky terrain, narrow paths)

Highlights along the way

  • The wild gorges of the Sénancole
  • The commemorative stele of the Gordes Maquis
  • The Sénanque Abbey
  • The Grailles plateau with panoramic views over the Monts de Vaucluse
  • Interpretive panels tracing the history of the local Resistance
  • Typical fauna and flora of the limestone Luberon

Access to forest areas is regulated in summer

Check the prefectural decrees before any outing in the Luberon or the Monts de Vaucluse.

See real-time access conditions

 

Prepare for your hike

Practical Tips

  • Hike of about 11 km with 350 m of elevation gain: good physical condition required.
  • Hiking shoes recommended: steep and rocky terrain in the gorges.
  • Bring at least 1.5 L of water per person, especially in summer.
  • Cap, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential.
  • Start early in the morning to avoid high temperatures.
  • Download the guide and GPX track beforehand (no network in the gorges).

Fire Safety and Regulations

  • This trail crosses a sensitive natural area in the Luberon.
  • Fires, barbecues, and cigarettes are strictly forbidden.
  • From June 15 to September 15, access to forest areas is regulated.
  • Check real-time conditions at: risque-prevention-incendie.fr/vaucluse
  • Information line: +33 (0)4 28 31 77 11
  • In case of fire or emergency: call 18 or 112.

Nearby

Want to keep exploring?

After the Maquis Trail, why not try another loop around Gordes? The Col de Gordes trail takes you through oak forests, dry stone walls, and stunning viewpoints over the Calavon Valley. A shorter route, ideal for a half-day nature outing.

See all hikes in Gordes

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Maquis Gordes Senancole (1).jpeg
Abbaye Sénanque (1).JPG
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Practical information on Maquis Trail of Gordes via the Sénancole

Opening times and periods

Aucune information disponible

Price(s)

Free of charge.

Informations

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