Ermitage Saint-Jean-du-Puy

Trets

Every 1 May, a pilgrimage climbs to the hermitage of Saint-Jean-du-Puy, set at 658 m on a peak overlooking the Arc valley. Facing it rises the Sainte-Victoire mountain. According to the tradition reported by the commune of Trets, Saint Cassian founded it in the 5th century, as an extension of the abbey of Saint-Victor in Marseille, on an ancient pagan temple, perhaps of Diana. We have found no source confirming these origins. Cassianite monks are said to have held it until the 15th century, then hermits followed one another. At the Revolution, the site was sold as national property, and the inhabitants of Trets became its owners. Hermits returned and frequented the place until 1891; it then fell into ruin. A tourist association created in 1934 saved it, and the site was listed on 20 April 1938. Visitors can see the hermitage, the communal house, the vault of the chapel of Sainte-Élisabeth and a small bell turret.

Ville de Trets — Ermitage Saint-Jean-du-Puy ↗

Getting there: On foot from the Saint-Jean-du-Puy retirement home (rue Cambon, Trets), by the GR 9: about 1 h 30 uphill, medium difficulty. By car, by the avenue de Saint-Zacharie. The Regagnas massif is regulated in summer (1 June to 30 September according to the commune): telephone 0811 20 13 13 before setting out. Free site, managed by the Amis de Saint-Jean-du-Puy, who lend the keys of the refuge for overnight stays; information 04 42 61 23 75.

Opening times and access details are given as a guide only: check before you set out.

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