Pilon du Roi, Mountain summit in Simiane-Collongue, France.
Pilon du Roi is a mountain summit standing at 424 meters near Marseille with rocky terrain and steep pathways. From the top, you get wide views across the plains and surrounding hills, especially toward Sainte-Victoire.
A small chapel honoring Mary Magdalene stood at this location around 1463 and marked its religious importance. Over the following centuries the structure vanished, but the memory of it lingers in the landscape.
The name comes from the Provençal 'Pieloun dóu Roue', which refers to rouvre wood, reflecting the linguistic tradition of the region. Locals and hikers still use this name when discussing the route, keeping the old language alive in everyday speech.
The hike starts near Mimet using roads D58 and D8 to reach Sainte-Anne pass, where parking is available. The route follows natural paths with rocky sections that require sturdy footwear and careful footing.
Natural stone cairns and rock formations shape the landscape and demand attention when navigating. The circuit-style route features multiple trail forks that require some navigation skill and add an element of adventure.
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