Simiane-Collongue is located at an altitude of 235 metres in a valley hollow on the northern slope of the Chaîne de l’Etoile. Forests cover around two thirds of the municipality; the municipality gives the area as 2,400 hectares.
Nature and Landscape
The area of Simiane-Collongue includes ecological zones and protected-area designations such as Natura 2000, ZNIEFF and ENS. The landscapes are typical of Provençal Mediterranean habitats, with garrigue consisting of kermes oaks, holm oaks, Aleppo pines and dry grasslands.
Anyone wishing to rent a holiday apartment in Simiane-Collongue can take this into account when planning their stay.
Hiking
The municipality’s forest offers numerous hiking trails, where walkers can obtain drinking water at the Venel spring. The hike Simiane-Collongue / Mimet – Pilon du Roy & Baou Trauqua takes 2.5 hours, is moderately difficult and begins with a challenging ascent.
The hike at Col des Ouides takes 4 hours, is moderately difficult, features a fairly steep ascent to the pass and offers a beautiful panorama. The Boucle de l’Horloge is shorter: it is an easy 20-minute circular walk. The hike Balade dans le Canyon Provençal begins at the Simiane-Collongue Tourist Office and is done on foot.
Culture and Village Life
The Tour de l’Horloge, also known as the Tour Sarrasine, stands on a rocky outcrop. It is a preserved relic of the former fortress of the lords of Collongue. The Château de Simiane was built at the end of the 18th century to replace the former Château de Collongue and is considered the last example of a bastide built in Provence during the Ancien Régime.
The Cours des Héros hosts a market and other events throughout the year; pétanque is also still played there. The viewpoint at the Tour de l’Horloge offers views of the village, the entire valley, the terril and Saint Victoire.
Community and Crafts
The Benedictine community of the sisters and brothers of Simiane offers a place of silence, prayer and retreat. An exhibition of works from the workshops of the Benedictine community can be seen on site, including art weaving, batik, terracotta, as well as glass, mosaic, lamp and enamelled works.
The chapel’s altar includes a Roman cippus with an engraved funerary inscription as well as a tabletop with low-relief vine motifs from the 5th century; both elements are classified as historic monuments. The chapel is open to the public on the last Saturday of every month.
Agriculture and Animals
The Ferme des Marres is open to the public year-round without reservation. Visitors can observe farm animals such as cows, sheep, ponies, goats, donkeys and chickens there, and walk along the paths around the grounds.
