The Massif des Costes is in the Cotes Mountain range in the Bouche-du-Rhône department in the South of France, formerly known as Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
This area encompasses five villages situated on a chain of hills stretching from the southeastern part of Salon-de-Provence to Aix-en-Provence. More precisely, it spans from the plateau of the Roques d’Aurons to Vernègues, with its highest point the Grand Puech (394m altitude). It covers an expansive plateau extending 8km from the hamlet of Cazan in the east to Lamanon in the west, and spans 5 to 6 km from Alleins in the north to Pélissanne in the south.
The Massif des Costes acts as a natural divider between the lower Durance and the Touloubre valley, through which the coastal river flows into the Mediterranean via the Etang de Berre.
Within each of the five municipalities, there are remarkable viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of hills, plains, vineyards, and olive groves shaped by human endeavour, alongside pine forests and the golden stones characteristic of the region. Here, simplicity reigns supreme!
In Alleins, ascend to the rocky outcrop overlooking the modern-day village. From the remnants of the castle, now in a state of ruin, you’ll be impressed of a breathtaking 360° panorama. Feast your eyes upon the majestic Alpilles, the gentle slopes of the Petit Luberon, the expansive Durance plain, and to the south, the oak forest adorning one of the hills of the Cotes range.
In Aurons, visit Notre-Dame d’Aurons, the statue of the Virgin sculpted from Oppède stone. Here, amidst the serene atmosphere, you can revel in sweeping vistas of the surrounding hills, the iconic silhouette of Sainte-Victoire, and the sprawling southern plain.
At La Barben, go to Saint-Sauveur church, visitors can admire a beautiful landscape offering views on the Touloubre plain and the scenic environs and the area of Salon-de-Provence.
In Pélissanne, go to the orienteering table during sunset. During the day, this spot offers a view at 180° from the St Victoire Mountain to Arles but also to the garrigue, the pine forest, the olive groves, the vineyards, the habitations, Pélissanne town and old town centre and the hills of Lançon and Coudoux.
In Vernègues, the best view is when the sun rises. The Grand Puech offers visitors a view at 360°, the highest point of the Massif des Costes. You can admire the view on the St Victoire, the Durance plain, on the petit Luberon, the Alpilles, the Touloubre lane and on the area of Salon-de-Provence. If you are lucky and it’s a sunny day you can see the lake of Berre.
Want to go for a walk.
The access to the forest is restricted between the 1st June to the 30th September with a prefectorial decree or a municipal decree. For your safety remain informed:
