Le Courchon Ridge Hike
Hike a ridge for non-stop, magnificent lake views and potential vulture sightings. A challenging but rewarding trek from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, best light for photos
Le Courchon Ridge Hike
Best Time
Cooler temps, best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike a ridge for non-stop, magnificent lake views and potential vulture sightings. A challenging but rewarding trek from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.
"The view is MAGNIFICENT; it's the same the whole way."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The path is wide but covered in large stones. Wear hiking boots for a comfortable and safe trek.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It's an uphill climb from the start. Stay hydrated throughout your hike.
Quick Facts
Rating
5 · 3 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Lake Views
Along the entire ridge
Uninterrupted, magnificent vistas of the lake and landscape unfold with every step.
Vulture Spotting
Ridge summit
Witness majestic vultures soaring gracefully in the skies above the belvedere.
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie Start
Trailhead at Moustier cemetery
Begin your ascent from the charming village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, with convenient parking available.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Footwear
Spectacular Views & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The path is wide but covered in large stones. Wear hiking boots for a comfortable and safe trek.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It's an uphill climb from the start. Stay hydrated throughout your hike.
📸 Non-Stop Scenic Views
The views are magnificent and consistent. Have your camera ready!
📍 Parking in Moustiers
Park in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, near the cemetery, to begin your hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The path is wide but covered in large stones. Wear hiking boots for a comfortable and safe trek.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It's an uphill climb from the start. Stay hydrated throughout your hike.
📸 Non-Stop Scenic Views
The views are magnificent and consistent. Have your camera ready!
📍 Parking in Moustiers
Park in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, near the cemetery, to begin your hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the consistently magnificent and breathtaking views of the lake throughout the Le Courchon Ridge Hike. The opportunity to spot vultures from the summit belvedere is a unique highlight. However, the trail's stony surface and constant uphill climb require sturdy footwear and a good level of fitness.
"We started from the Moustier cemetery and it's all uphill.
The view is MAGNIFICENT; it's the same the whole way.
Once we reached the top, we turned back, but it's possible to continue to another village.
The path is wide but covered in large stones."
Norbert constantin
"This belvedere offers a beautiful view of the lake and allows you to admire the vultures"
Denis L68
"Parking in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie."
Karina K.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common starting point is from the Moustier cemetery in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Parking is available in the village.
Yes, parking is available in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, which serves as the starting point for the hike.
While the hike is often done from Moustiers, it's possible to continue to other villages from the summit, suggesting connectivity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Le Courchon Ridge Hike is a natural trail and does not require tickets for entry. It's a free outdoor activity.
There are no specific fees for hiking the Le Courchon Ridge. Parking in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie might have associated costs depending on the location.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike is described as being 'all uphill' from the start, indicating a moderate to challenging difficulty level.
Expect magnificent, continuous views of the lake and surrounding landscape throughout the entire hike.
Given the consistent uphill climb and stony path, it might be challenging for absolute beginners. Good fitness and proper footwear are recommended.
Visitors have reported seeing vultures from the belvedere at the top, offering a unique wildlife viewing opportunity.
The duration can vary, but starting from Moustiers and reaching the top and returning would likely take a few hours, depending on your pace.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire ridge offers stunning, consistent views of the lake, making every part of the hike a potential photo opportunity. The summit belvedere is particularly scenic.
Mornings offer cooler temperatures and softer light, while late afternoons provide the 'golden hour' for dramatic, warm-toned landscape shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit