LAURIS - From the Recaute Valley to the Sautadou Combe

LAURIS - From the Recaute Valley to the Sautadou Combe

Set off on a hike in Lauris: an easy 5.8 km loop in the heart of the Petit Luberon, through fragrant garrigue, limestone cliffs and scenic viewpoints. A small but beautiful summary of the Luberon.

84360, Lauris

Sommaire

An easy hike in the heart of the Petit Luberon

✔ Loop

✔ Distance: 5.8 km

✔ Marking: PR + GRP®

 

Hike overview

Group of hikers on the Recaute valley trail in Lauris

View of the Recaute valley and its limestone cliffs

Natural rock formation with cave and grotto in the Petit Luberon


Starting from the Recaute valley, this accessible loop takes you into the heart of the Petit Luberon, between fragrant garrigue and limestone cliffs. Located near the village of Lauris, the hike allows you to enjoy low, drought-resistant vegetation where thyme, rosemary and rockrose thrive.

The path crosses a typically Provençal landscape, dotted with natural and heritage curiosities: a small dry-stone borie perched on a rocky spur, caves and grottos shaped by erosion, and even an underground water channel that bears witness to human ingenuity.

All along the walk, viewpoints succeed one another. Sometimes you overlook the Durance valley, sometimes the steep cliffs that are home to remarkable wildlife. With a bit of luck, you may spot birds of prey and songbirds in flight, perhaps even the Bonelli’s eagle or the raven.

Accessible to all, this 5.8 km loop offers in about two hours an unforgettable sensory immersion, paced by birdsong and the scents of the garrigue. A true glimpse of the Petit Luberon to discover in any season, while respecting the preserved nature that makes this site so rich.

When to go?

This hike is accessible all year round. However, spring and autumn are the best seasons to fully enjoy it: the vegetation displays its most beautiful colors and the temperatures are ideal for walking.
In summer, it is best to go in the morning to take advantage of the cool air, and don’t forget to check the forest access conditions, which are regulated due to fire risk.

QR code forest access

Points of interest and itinerary

Access and Parking

  • By road: 27 km southeast of Cavaillon via the D973, and 19 km northwest of Pertuis via the D973Y.
  • Parking: recommended car park on the Chemin de Recaute, 3 km north of Lauris, at the foot of the Combe de Valbigonce.

Practical Information

  • Start: Parking Chemin de Recaute, Lauris
  • Elevation gain: +199 m
  • Duration: about 2h00
  • Level: Easy

Sights Along the Way

  • A small dry-stone borie perched on a rocky spur
  • Caves and grottos shaped by limestone erosion
  • Mediterranean vegetation: Aleppo pines, rosemary, rockroses
  • Local wildlife: raven, birds of prey, and possibly the Bonelli’s eagle
  • Beautiful viewpoints over the cliffs and the Durance valley

Discover the Full Itinerary

View of the Recaute valley in Lauris, Luberon

Prepare your hike

Practical Tips

  • Wear suitable shoes: some sections are steep, rocky and sometimes slippery.
  • Respect the peace of the birds of prey nesting in the area.
  • Stay on the marked trails (PR and GRP®) to protect flora and fauna.
  • Bring water, especially in summer.
  • Remember to download the map and GPX track before you leave.

Fire Prevention & Safety

  • Fire is the enemy of the forest... and of hikers: do not smoke or light any fire in the forest, at any time of year.
  • Between June 15 and September 15, access to the massifs is regulated according to fire risk. Check access conditions at: www.risque-prevention-incendie.fr/vaucluse
  • In case of emergency, dial 18 or 112.

Nearby

Want to keep exploring?

From Lauris, extend your adventure with other trails in the southern Luberon. Starting from Lourmarin, the hike "From One Castle to Another" takes you from village to village through vineyards and hills, with stunning viewpoints.
Near Mérindol, the trail "Between Garrigue and Durance" offers a Mediterranean immersion, between fragrant pine forests and valley panoramas.

See all hikes

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