DAY 59 - SISTERON TO MONTFORT

Today's walk started with a gentle downhill along a rural road towards a creek, where we joined the GR653D. The GR took us across a bridge, and then started going up. 

Heading for the hills

The GR soon took us uphill

As is often the case with the GRs, there is a significant amount of climbing, followed by wonderful views of where we had been, and new vistas opening up in front.

After a few kilometres of climbing, the path levelled out 

Descending from the Pas de Peipin 

We ascended to the Pas de Peipin, then descended through the village of Peipin to a commercial zone by the main road.  Here we had lunch in a supermarket  bistrot, and bought supplies for our dinner later on.

A healthy lunch in the supermarket bistrot 

After lunch, we continued on the GR653D through rugged country to the ruins of the village of Châteauneuf (destroyed in 1793).

Strategically placed cairns help to show the way

The path passes an old abandoned village 

A picnic table has been placed thoughtfully so that passers-by can linger and contemplate the ruins

For a few kilometres the path followed the Via Domitia, a road originally constructed by the Romans. 

Walking along the Via Domitia - remnants of the old Royal road 

We left the Via Domitia, and the GR653D, to make for our chambre d'hôte in Montfort. On the way the rock formation known as The Penitents was visible across the river. 

The rocks of the Penitents visible behind an old farmhouse 

Day:  59

Distance: 29.59 km

Walking time:  7hrs 07mins

Elevation gain:  1066 metres

Cumulative distance:  1447.91 km