Saint-Marc-Jaumegarde combines a specific hike with notable buildings from different centuries. A route to Tour Kéyrié has a defined time and distance; the château, Tour de Keyrié and Barrage de Bimont represent different chapters of the local heritage. Most of the area is wooded. When planning, you can decide whether to focus on the hike or devote more of your stay to architectural and cultural history.
Hiking to Tour Kéyrié
The hike to Tour Kéyrié starts in Saint-Marc-Jaumegarde, takes 3 hours and 30 minutes, and covers 10.3 kilometres. It is family-friendly and peaceful, and the shaded path offers panoramic views. These time and distance details make it easy to plan the hike as a separate activity. Seasonal access restrictions apply, so check the conditions before setting out.
To the north stands Tour de Keyrié, also known as Tour de César. It was built in the 14th century to watch for approaching looters or fires. Its historical function was therefore closely linked to keeping watch for potential dangers.
Château, towers and heritage
A château stands on the Esplanade des Plaines. It was built in the 16th century from Bibémus stone and has four towers, including the square Tour des Templiers. Its construction date and material give the château a specific historical context, while the towers add distinctive details to the complex.
Built in 1952, the Barrage de Bimont is one of the important elements of Saint-Marc-Jaumegarde’s heritage. It is also a popular place for walks and a gateway to the various routes through the massif. This structure thus combines cultural significance with a role in walking and hiking.
The Oratoire de Saint Roch also has a story passed down through tradition: it is said to have been built in 1720 to ask the saint for protection against the plague. The shaft appears to have come from the Roman mausoleum of the Julia family in Aix.
Guided tours and culture
The Jardin des 5 sens et des formes premières offers guided tours for groups of ten or more by appointment on Wednesdays and Thursdays. If you plan to take a group tour, check the dates before booking, as arrangements may change.
The “Soirées de Saint Marc” were launched in 2017. The festival featured concerts, singing and dancing, and each concert attracted an average of almost 500 spectators. Alongside historic buildings, music and dance are therefore among the cultural themes associated with Saint-Marc-Jaumegarde.
Getting to the northern side of Sainte-Victoire
The northern side of Sainte-Victoire is accessible mainly via departmental road D10. It connects Aix-en-Provence with Vauvenargues and passes through Saint-Marc-Jaumegarde. When travelling there, bear in mind that traffic and access restrictions may vary locally.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Chamas, Eyguières, La Penne-Sur-Huveaune, Cassis, Carry-Le-Rouet, Saint-Paul-Lès-Durance, Venelles, Mimet.
Go to the main travel overview: Bouches Du Rhone.
