Rocher des Deux Trous
Hike to an iconic rock formation in Provence, famed for its natural arches and Van Gogh's inspiration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Rocher des Deux Trous
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to an iconic rock formation in Provence, famed for its natural arches and Van Gogh's inspiration.
"A little slice of heaven on earth with views of Mont Ventoux and Pic Saint Loup."
🚗 Parking Options
Park at Parking de la Caume or near Saint-Paul de Mausole for easy trail access.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trails can be rocky and uneven; good hiking shoes are recommended.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Two Holes Rock
Rocher des Deux Trous
Famous rock formation with two natural arches, a subject of Van Gogh's paintings.
Panoramic Alpilles Views
Summit of Rocher des Deux Trous
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the Alpilles mountain range and surrounding landscapes.
Van Gogh's Artistic Legacy
Saint-Paul de Mausole Monastery
Explore the monastery where Van Gogh stayed and found inspiration for his masterpieces.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Hiking
Van Gogh's Inspiration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Options
Park at Parking de la Caume or near Saint-Paul de Mausole for easy trail access.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trails can be rocky and uneven; good hiking shoes are recommended. 
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. The hike can be strenuous.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, perfect for photography. Don't miss sunset!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Options
Park at Parking de la Caume or near Saint-Paul de Mausole for easy trail access.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trails can be rocky and uneven; good hiking shoes are recommended.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. The hike can be strenuous.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are stunning, perfect for photography. Don't miss sunset!
🗺️ Trail Difficulty
Most trails are easy to moderate, with some sections having ladders and cables.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the beauty of the trekking and the magnificent landscapes, highlighting the unique rock formations and panoramic views. The hike is described as pleasant and easy, making it accessible for many. Some appreciate the connection to Van Gogh's art and the opportunity to enjoy a sunset aperitif.
"Very beautiful trekking. You can park your car in Parking de la Caume and it takes about 20-30 minutes walking to Rocher des Deux Trous."
HUYEN TRANG NGUYEN
"Nice one-hour walk there and back among the pine trees, easy path without much difficulty, the landscape is magnificent!!!"
Laure Pradel
"A little slice of heaven on earth with views of Mont Ventoux and Pic Saint Loup. This famous rock, made famous by Van Gogh, is a perfect place to enjoy an aperitif while admiring the sunset. Let's hope these holes in the rocks remain there for a long time to come!"
Pauline L.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common starting points for hiking to Rocher des Deux Trous are the Parking de la Caume or the parking area near the Saint-Paul de Mausole monastery. Both offer relatively easy access to the trails.
Public transport options directly to the trailheads are limited. It's generally recommended to have a car to reach the parking areas. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is accessible by bus from Avignon.
Many visitors recommend Parking de la Caume for a shorter walk to the rock. The parking at Saint-Paul de Mausole is also a popular starting point for longer loops.
The rock is located just outside Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. The drive to the nearest parking areas is typically around 10-15 minutes.
No, you cannot drive directly to the Rocher des Deux Trous. It is accessible only by hiking trails from designated parking areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee or ticket required to visit and hike to Rocher des Deux Trous. It's a natural attraction.
As a natural outdoor site, Rocher des Deux Trous does not have specific opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, though hiking during daylight is advised.
Parking at the designated lots like Parking de la Caume or near Saint-Paul de Mausole is generally free, but it's always good to check for any local signage.
Yes, Rocher des Deux Trous is accessible year-round. However, weather conditions can affect trail safety, especially in winter.
Yes, there is an admission fee to visit the Saint-Paul de Mausole monastery, where Van Gogh stayed. Check their official website for current prices.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Several trails lead to the rock. A popular option is the loop starting from Saint-Paul de Mausole, offering varied landscapes and views.
The duration varies depending on the starting point and trail. A round trip from Parking de la Caume can take about 1 hour, while longer loops from Saint-Paul de Mausole can be 2-3 hours.
Most trails are considered easy to moderate. Some routes, like the Chemin des Échelles, involve ladders and cables, making them more challenging.
You'll enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the Alpilles, Mont Ventoux, and Pic Saint Loup. The rock itself, with its natural arches, is a unique sight.
Yes, the easier trails are suitable for families with children. However, routes with ladders and steep sections might be challenging for very young children.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the rock formations and the panoramic views. Sunset is particularly spectacular.
The rock with its two holes is the main subject. Also, capture the sweeping vistas of the Alpilles from the summit.
You can try to recreate Van Gogh's perspective by visiting the Saint-Paul de Mausole monastery and imagining him painting the surrounding landscapes.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A standard zoom lens is versatile for various shots.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in natural parks and protected areas before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more extended family outing, consider the loop starting from Saint-Paul de Mausole. While some parts might be more challenging, you can adapt the route to suit your children's stamina. Visiting the monastery itself can also be engaging for older children interested in history and art. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and make it a fun exploration rather than a strenuous trek.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Solo hikers can truly soak in the tranquility of the Alpilles, enjoy the stunning vistas at their own pace, and reflect on Van Gogh's inspiration. It's a perfect opportunity for introspection and connecting with nature. Consider bringing a good book or journal to enjoy during a peaceful break at the summit.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to capture the interplay of light and shadow on the rock formations throughout the day. Consider visiting the Saint-Paul de Mausole monastery to capture architectural details and imagine Van Gogh's artistic process.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails and Routes
Some routes, like the Chemin des Échelles (Path of the Ladders), feature more adventurous elements such as ladders and cables, adding an element of challenge and excitement. +1When planning your hike, consider the 'rocher des deux trous' itself as the primary destination, but also explore extensions to Mont Gaussier and Lac du Peirou for a more comprehensive adventure.
+1 The trails are generally well-marked, but having a map or GPS device is always a good precaution, especially for longer routes. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the paths can be rocky and uneven. Key trails and their characteristics:
* Direct from Parking de la Caume: Easy, ~1 hour round trip, good for quick visits.
* Loop from Saint-Paul de Mausole: Moderate, 2-3 hours, offers diverse scenery.
* Chemin des Échelles: More challenging, includes ladders and cables, for experienced hikers.
Always check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
Van Gogh's Connection to the Alpilles
Visiting the Saint-Paul de Mausole monastery today offers a poignant glimpse into Van Gogh's life and artistic process. You can walk through the cloisters, see the gardens, and even stand by the window where he is said to have painted.
* Saint-Paul de Mausole Monastery: The asylum where Van Gogh stayed and painted.
* 'The Olive Trees' painting: One of Van Gogh's works believed to feature the Rocher des Deux Trous.
* Artistic Inspiration: The natural beauty of the Alpilles fueled Van Gogh's creativity during his stay.
Exploring the Alpilles Region
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence itself is a vibrant market town, famous for its Wednesday market, which is one of the largest in the region and a must-visit for local produce and crafts.
For those interested in immersive art experiences, the Carrières de Lumières near Les Baux offers spectacular digital art shows within ancient quarries. Beyond the villages, the Alpilles are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The region is crisscrossed with hiking and cycling trails, offering opportunities to discover hidden valleys, ancient ruins, and panoramic viewpoints.
+1 The natural landscapes, characterized by olive groves, vineyards, and garrigue scrubland, provide a quintessential Provençal backdrop for any adventure. 
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