We'll climb up to the Trou de l'Argent, overlooking the limestone massif of La Baume, and where there's a limestone massif… there's a cave! The Trou in question is a necessary passage point to reach the summit of Montagne de la Baume! A must-do hiking tour for experienced hikers in the heart of the Haute-Provence Geopark.
The Programme:
- An introduction to the UNESCO Geopark of Haute-Provence and its astonishing geology: a tumultuous geological history
- A 1.5-hour ascent to reach the foot of the Trou de l'Argent, where you climb a metal ladder to squeeze through a narrow entrance
- Discovery of a small underground world, offering a few natural windows to the outside
- Ridge hike to admire the panorama of the Alps, before descending through the forests on the north slope of Montagne de la Baume
- Complimentary aperitif at the top!
Difficulty: level 4/5. 4 to 4.5 hours of actual walking and 650 m of uphill elevation gain over the course of the day • Hike suitable for people in good physical condition. Steep trail on the ascent, at a leisurely pace. You may feel dizzy at the summit, but you will be kept safe and guided.
Supervision: Group hike (maximum 10 people), led by a mountain tour leader. They will provide you with the technical information and help you discover the local environment. The route may be changed depending on the weather conditions or the physical fitness of the participants.
Essential equipment: 1 comfortable backpack (20–30 L) for your belongings // hiking boots with cleats // 1 outfit suitable for walking (breathable and lightweight clothing) // 1 water bottle (minimum 1 L/person) // 1 cap or hat, sunglasses and sun cream // 1 technical waterproof windbreaker (Gore-Tex type) or a raincoat // your medication (if you take any).
Optional equipment: phone or camera, binoculars, hiking poles (if you are used to walking with them!)
