About this tour
Trace Mary Magdalene's final years through Provence's hidden corners on this seven-hour pilgrimage. Begin with a solitary walk up to the grotto in Sainte-Baume massif where she spent three decades in retreat, then descend to the colourful hilltop town of Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume to visit the basilica holding her relics. A local sandwich and rosé sustain you mid-journey. The day closes with a leisurely drive through Sainte-Victoire valley, where you can wander vineyard rows or explore a quiet village at your own tempo.
Highlights
- Solo walk to Mary Magdalene's cave shrine in Sainte-Baume
- Local sandwich and rosé wine included
- Medieval basilica housing Mary Magdalene's skull
- Colourful Provencal village with free time to explore
- Scenic drive through Sainte-Victoire wine valley
- Optional vineyard walk and local wine tasting
What to expect
You'll arrive at Sainte-Baume and climb at your own pace to the grotto where Mary Magdalene is said to have lived in solitude for 33 years. The walk is contemplative rather than rushed; bring water and wear sturdy shoes. The cave itself feels intimate and austere. Back down in Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, wander narrow streets lined with cafés and boutiques, then step inside the basilica to see the relic shrine. The afternoon unwinds with a driver taking you through rolling vineyard landscapes. If energy remains, you can stroll between vines or slip into a quiet village for wine tasting at a family producer.
Good to know
Moderate fitness required for the grotto walk—it's steep but manageable. Wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. Wine tasting costs €5 per person and is restricted to those 18+. Hotel pick-up covers the Marseille and Aix-en-Provence area.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.