Private tour of the Sainte-Baume cave and Saint-Maximin basilica

Overview

This private excursion from Marseille takes you in the footsteps of Mary Magdalene in Provence. You will discover the cave of the Sainte-Baume massif, where she is said to have retired to live as a hermit during the last thirty years of her life after arriving in Provence by sea. The ascent to the cave is done individually and at your own pace. Once there, you will have time for prayer or meditation. For those who wish, a mass is celebrated daily at 11 am. The journey continues to the town of Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, where you can stroll through the streets and have lunch at your leisure. The visit concludes with free time to explore the basilica housing the relics of Mary Magdalene. Transport is provided in an air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz van and includes entry to the cave and the basilica, as well as bottled water.

Itinerary

1. Grotte de Sainte Marie Madeleine

   A true journey into the past, you will discover the cave or Saint Mary Madeleine lived in Hermite the last 30 years of her life. The path that leads through the forest, mixes calm, beauty and serenity. You will all have time to make the ascent at your own pace, as well as to meditate or pray on site. If you wish, you can attend the Mass which is held daily at 11am. Important: Provide walking shoes for the ascent (about 40 minutes)

   · 3 h

2. Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume

   After visiting the cave, we will go to Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte Baume, a city preserved from Mass tourism. You will have lunch there and you can stroll through the alleys of the old town that leads to the Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.

   · 2 h

3. Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine

   You will have free time to visit the basilica and gather in front of the relics of St. Mary Magdalene which are preserved inside the basilica

   · 1 h

Pickup

Pickup or meet at the departure point.

The travelers are welcomed by the guide/driver It has a tag with the name of the principal passenger

Meeting point

What to know before you go

• Special needs child seats available.
• Assistance animals accepted.
• Public transport available nearby.
• Average physical condition required.
• Immediate confirmation upon booking.

Travelers

Pricing per group (up to 8 people).

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure date.

• Free cancellation up to 1 day before departure.

Who is it for?

• Travellers interested in Christian history and pilgrimages.
• People with average physical condition for the ascent.
• Groups or families seeking private, air-conditioned transport.

What makes it different

• Private transport in an air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz van.
• Entry fees included for both the cave and the basilica.
• Personalised service with a guide speaking English or French.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

Product code: 5582472P21

Activity offered by Discover Provence on a private tour via Viator.