Escape the Heat Walk Along the Shady Canals Near St Remy de Provence

The area around St-Rémy-de-Provence is wonderful for hiking. The Alpilles Mountains are crisscrossed with well-marked trails that offer fabulous views.

But let’s face it, who wants to schlep through the mountains on a hot summer day? Isn’t there a better way to stretch your legs and see the beautiful countryside?

Yes—a canal walk.

St-Rémy is surrounded by agriculture—vineyards, olive groves, and fields growing fruits and vegetables of all kinds. A vast network of canals built around the main Canal des Alpilles, supports it all.

Continue reading here for details and images of Keith’s insider tip for hiking near St Remy. This walk is pretty and offers a bit of shade on a hot day.

Other Things to Do in St Remy:

After your walk, there is great dining in St Remy at L’Aile ou la Cuisse – make a reservation and save room for dessert.

Although, parking can be challenging Keith offers this nugget – St Remy Local Secrets Where to Find Parking.

Don’t want to hike, try soaring. Taking Flight in Provence Gliding over St Remy.

Visit Saint Paul-de-Mausole to appreciate Vincent Van Gogh’s St Remy de Provence

Step back to Greek and Roman times with a visit to historic Glanum for glorious views near St Remy de Provence.

Don’t miss the Wednesday morning Marché St Remy de Provence a post by @CuriousProvence

Pick up picnic supplies from the market for a picnic. Keith shares the secrets of St.-Rémy: the best place for a picnic.

Keith Van Sickle

Keith and Val Van Sickle made their first trip to Provence decades ago, and it was love at first sight. After that, they came back every year until 2008, when they began a part-time life there, splitting their time between Provence and California.

Over the years, they’ve travelled all over Provence, seeing sights both well-known and obscure. Their French friends have introduced them to favourite restaurants and wineries and picnic spots and taught them funny local expressions (not all for polite company).

Keith now shares this local knowledge in his new book, An Insider’s Guide to Provence. Packed with the Van Sickles’ favourite things to see and do, it’s a must-have for anyone travelling to this glorious corner of France.

Keith previously published two books about the couple's experiences in Provence. One Sip at a Time: Learning to Live in Provence, and Are We French Yet?, both are available from Amazon.

You can see all of Keith’s blog posts at Life in Provence.