History of the rural estate of Figuerolles along the water
Full
Presentation
During this 6km hike accompanied by the Martégale Randonnée Ski Découverte (RSD) association, you will set off on the trails of the Grand Parc de Figuerolles before reaching the archaeological site of Tholon.
In the heart of the Grand Parc de Figuerolles, you can admire the vestiges of the past still standing and pay tribute to the Deverville family, former owners of the estate. This pleasant walk on the terraced path and in the heart of the Mediterranean gardens will allow you to discover the hydraulic constructions as well as the buildings and agricultural installations of yesteryear. Your steps will take you to a mirror-effect pond with a water jet in its center. It was built in the middle of an old yucca plantation. This guided walk will inexorably be a discovery of the park's flora, the species of which vary depending on the nearby water points. White poplar, ash, elm, elderberry and other fig trees grow in humid environments. You will learn that the presence of salt in the sea spray of the Berre pond, located a few meters away, causes the development of compact, homogeneous vegetation characterized by a small number of species; while the presence of water in a valley will promote the growth of large deciduous trees.
You will then follow the banks of the Berre pond on part of the GR2013 to reach the archaeological site of Tholon. You will be overwhelmed by the beauty of the landscape before being captivated by its magnificent washhouse whose water was once drawn from the Tholon spring.
Your guide will tell you the history of this emblematic site of the city of Martigues known for having once been a toll place for the water supply of ships sailing on the pond. Exploited during the Gallo-Roman period, Tholon owes its name to the Latin Tholonium meaning "guard post". The Tholon spring was the main fresh water point located 1400m from the village of Ferrières. Between pipes built in 1562 and an underground aqueduct in 1478, you will discover everything about the history of this indisputable work of the region.
In the heart of the Grand Parc de Figuerolles, you can admire the vestiges of the past still standing and pay tribute to the Deverville family, former owners of the estate. This pleasant walk on the terraced path and in the heart of the Mediterranean gardens will allow you to discover the hydraulic constructions as well as the buildings and agricultural installations of yesteryear. Your steps will take you to a mirror-effect pond with a water jet in its center. It was built in the middle of an old yucca plantation. This guided walk will inexorably be a discovery of the park's flora, the species of which vary depending on the nearby water points. White poplar, ash, elm, elderberry and other fig trees grow in humid environments. You will learn that the presence of salt in the sea spray of the Berre pond, located a few meters away, causes the development of compact, homogeneous vegetation characterized by a small number of species; while the presence of water in a valley will promote the growth of large deciduous trees.
You will then follow the banks of the Berre pond on part of the GR2013 to reach the archaeological site of Tholon. You will be overwhelmed by the beauty of the landscape before being captivated by its magnificent washhouse whose water was once drawn from the Tholon spring.
Your guide will tell you the history of this emblematic site of the city of Martigues known for having once been a toll place for the water supply of ships sailing on the pond. Exploited during the Gallo-Roman period, Tholon owes its name to the Latin Tholonium meaning "guard post". The Tholon spring was the main fresh water point located 1400m from the village of Ferrières. Between pipes built in 1562 and an underground aqueduct in 1478, you will discover everything about the history of this indisputable work of the region.
Practical information
- Schedule :
- Departure time : 14h
- Return time : 17h
- Duration : 3h
- Date(s) :
- The visit takes place 22 March 2025
- And also the 17 May 2025
- By reservation :
- Yes
- Supervised visit :
- Yes
- Place of departure :
- At the Grand Parc de Figuerolles
- Prices :
- Single price : 5 €
- Important to know :
- Pets aren't allowed
- Strollers not allowed
- Tour is currently closed :
- Full
Accessibility
- Disabled :
- Visite non accessible aux personnes à mobilité réduite
About
Conditions of saleUseful information :
Provide comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen and bottle of water.
For your comfort, we advise you to arrive approximately 15 minutes before the start of the visit.
Correct outfit required.
By purchasing their tickets on our website, participants undertake to respect the health protocol in force on the date of the service.
Cancellation conditions: if a customer cannot attend the visit, the visit will not be refunded or postponed. Only the cancellation of the visit by the organizers due to an insufficient number of participants or other could lead to a possible refund or postponement. No refund will be granted to the late customer.
Provide comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen and bottle of water.
For your comfort, we advise you to arrive approximately 15 minutes before the start of the visit.
Correct outfit required.
By purchasing their tickets on our website, participants undertake to respect the health protocol in force on the date of the service.
Cancellation conditions: if a customer cannot attend the visit, the visit will not be refunded or postponed. Only the cancellation of the visit by the organizers due to an insufficient number of participants or other could lead to a possible refund or postponement. No refund will be granted to the late customer.
Live the experience: Questions & Reviews
Where is the Figuerolles Park located ?
The Grand Parc de Figuerolles is located in Martigues, on the edge of the Étang de Berre.
How long does the visit last ?
The walk around the park’s rural heritage lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
What can be seen during the visit ?
The visit allows you to discover the agricultural and hydraulic heritage of the site, including:
- Former agricultural estates dating from the 17th to the 19th century.
- Hydraulic structures such as wells, basins, cisterns, and pipelines.
- Agricultural buildings such as farms, small cabins, and threshing areas.
Are there any access restrictions ?
Access to the park may be regulated between June 1st and September 30th due to fire risks. It is recommended to check access conditions before visiting.
What are the opening hours ?
The park is generally open year-round from 6 AM to 8 PM, subject to favorable weather conditions.
Are there any facilities on-site ?
The park has free parking, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a snack bar.
FICHE_INFO_SIMPLE_LIBELLE_DESTINATION
Entrée principale du Parc de Figuerolles
Avenue du Grand Parc
13500
MARTIGUES
GPS coordinates
Latitude : 43.43565
Longitude : 5.04199