Saint-Marc-Jaumegarde: Hiking and Heritage

The area around Saint-Marc-Jaumegarde is largely wooded. Hiking, walks, and historic buildings offer different ways to plan your trip. If you are looking for a hotel in Saint-Marc-Jaumegarde, you can first consider whether you are most interested in a hike, walks, or the history of the buildings.

Hiking and navigation

The hike to Tour Kéyrié starts in Saint-Marc-Jaumegarde, is 10.3 kilometres long, and takes 3 hours and 30 minutes. It is family-friendly and peaceful, following a shaded trail with panoramic views. The length and duration help you estimate the time required; the trail features provide further practical guidance. Check seasonal access restrictions and conditions before setting out.

The D10 departmental road is the main access route to the northern side of Sainte-Victoire. It connects Aix-en-Provence with Vauvenargues and runs through Saint-Marc-Jaumegarde. Local traffic and access restrictions may vary, so check road conditions before you travel.

Built in 1952, the Barrage de Bimont is one of the significant heritage features of Saint-Marc-Jaumegarde. It is also a popular place for walks and an access point to the massif’s various routes. The two hiking references can help with different decisions: the distance and duration are given for the Tour Kéyrié hike, while the Barrage de Bimont is highlighted for walks and access to several routes.

Historic buildings and their layers of history

A château built in the 16th century from Bibémus stone stands on the Esplanade des Plaines. It has four towers, including the square Tour des Templiers. Its materials, construction period, and tower design offer several specific points of interest for anyone interested in architecture and history.

The Tour de Keyrié, also called the Tour de César, stands to the north and was built in the 14th century. It served to monitor the approach of looters or fires. In terms of age, it predates the 16th-century château; its recorded surveillance function also differs from the château’s architectural features.

The Oratoire de Saint Roch is said to have been built in 1720 to seek the saint’s protection from the plague. Its shaft appears to have come from the Roman mausoleum of the Julia family in Aix. These details concern two different aspects of the oratory: the presumed reason it was built and the possible origin of one of its components.

Festival and culture

The “Soirées de Saint Marc” were launched in 2017. The festival focused on concerts, singing, and dancing, welcoming an average of almost 500 spectators per concert. If an event is important to your travel plans, check the dates in advance.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Eygalières, Grans, Saint-Paul-Lès-Durance, Saint-Martin-De-Crau, La Penne-Sur-Huveaune, Rousset, Cabriès, Ensuès-La-Redonne

Go to the main travel overview: Bouches Du Rhone.