In brief
- Distance : 10.3 km – Elevation : +243 m
- Estimated duration : 3h40
- Difficulty : Moderate
- Starting point : Salettes water plan in Mormoiron
- To see : old ochre quarries, colorful cliffs, views of Mont Ventoux
- Particularity : red and yellow sandy areas, shaded path, sensitive natural environment to respect
A walking route in the heart of the colors of Vaucluse
In the heart of the Monts de Vaucluse, just a stone’s throw from Mont Ventoux, the ochres of Mormoiron trail transports hikers into a mineral world of rare intensity. This marked circuit, approximately 10 km starting from the Salettes water plan, harmoniously combines nature, industrial history, and panoramic viewpoints.
Between ochre sand and underbrush, a palette of landscapes
The trail begins by the water, following the lake on a constructed path. Very quickly, the atmosphere changes: the first sandy formations appear, and the ochre cliffs outline the contours of a deep valley. Once a mining area, this sector is now a sensitive natural space to be explored with care and respect.
The Vallat de Marquetton is a nice warm-up. The gradual ascent, bordered by tree-top adventure workshops, crosses ravines where red and golden hues tell the geological history of the site.
History and industrial traces
Towards the third kilometer, the sand takes on a paler hue: this marks the entry into the former ochre deposit of Sablon, exploited since 1887. We walk along the ruins of the extraction site, sometimes hidden by vegetation. Although some structures have disappeared, the site retains a palpable memory of its mining past, particularly in the shapes carved into the cliffs or the remnants of galleries.
The old ochre quarries line the second part of the circuit. Some merit a slight detour from the marked trail, but always with caution. The vegetation has reclaimed its rights, offering stunning contrasts between bare rock and pines.
Vines, cherry trees, and views of Ventoux
After a stretch of forest, the path returns to the typical crops of Vaucluse: olive trees, cherry trees, and vineyards accompany the steps of the walkers. Several times, the gaze opens toward Mont Ventoux, majestic in the distance, and the Dentelles de Montmirail that cut the horizon.
The descent towards the hamlet of the Deaf crosses a clearing and then winds through the woods. This area offers a smooth transition between agricultural landscapes and colorful reliefs. The atmosphere is peaceful, ideal for a break in the shade.
Return to the water plan: a final ochre cliff
The last section, a little wilder, reveals a well-preserved ochre cliff. The path, sometimes discreet, follows the undulations of the relief before joining the road, and then the initial parking area. This conclusion wraps up a loop rich in colors, textures, and geological memories.
Practical information
- Signage : Yellow at the start, then green in some sections, with a few parts unmarked
- Recommended map : IGN 3140ET or 3140ETR
- Useful apps : Downloadable GPX – Visorando recommended for guidance
- Advice : avoid high temperatures, the itinerary offers few water points
- Parking : Parking at Salettes water plan
- Equipment : shoes with good grip – paths can be slippery
- Site respect : do not collect sand or fragments – protected area
Nearby
- Salettes water plan : monitored swimming in summer, picnic area
- Ventoux Adventure Park : tree climbing at the entrance of the trail
- Villes-sur-Auzon : small typical village a few kilometers away, ideal stopping point
A colorful loop, between nature and memory
This trail reveals the ochres of Mormoiron from all angles: red cliffs, golden sands, forgotten old galleries. Accessible without excessive difficulty, it enchants with its variety, viewpoints, and peaceful atmosphere. A beautiful immersion in the hues of Vaucluse, between industrial memories and natural beauties.
