In the shoes of a shepherd: Farm life immersion
Presentation
Enjoy a unique experience at the heart of the Croix d'Estrine farm! Spend the day with Bernard, a goat farmer and cheesemaker, sharing his passion for his work and his love of goats and kids.
We'll meet you at the farm at 10:00 AM to watch the morning milking. Take a tour of the property; you won't be able to resist petting the goats and kids that roam freely. Donkeys, hens, and roosters mingle... a charming farmyard!
A farm buffet prepared by Bernard using products from the farm will be served. A time for conversation and sharing.
Then, we'll set off with the herd and the shepherd into the surrounding hills for an approximately one-hour walk. Discover the shepherd's craft. We'll return to the farm on foot around 3:00 PM.
A 100% local experience!
On site, you can buy various products: goat cheeses, plain, chocolate, or fruit yogurt, egg custards, Rove brousse cheese, bottles of Rove milk, terrines, jams, etc.
In partnership with Bernard Thoron, goat farmer at La Fermette de la Croix d'Estrine in Saint-Julien-les-Martigues.
- Schedule :
- Departure time (This is an approximate time. Please check the time indicated at the time of booking and/or on your voucher) : 10h
- Duration : 05h
- Date(s) :
- The visit takes place 16 September 2026
- And also the 14 October 2026
- By reservation :
- Yes
- Supervised visit :
- Yes
- Place of departure :
- Farmhouse of the Croix d'Estrine
- Prices :
- Adult price : 37 €
- Child price : 18.50 €
- Important to know :
- Pets aren't allowed
- Forbidden to children under 6 years old
- Disabled :
- Not accessible
About
Packed lunch included. Correct outfit required.
Bernard's recommendations: Be in good physical shape for this outing because the terrain is rocky with a significant drop. The ascent and descent in the hill is a bit sporty!
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.
Visit subject to modification according to access conditions to the massifs.
Why is this activity not accessible to everyone?
1. Hiking trail: The activity includes an approximately one-hour walk in the surrounding hills to accompany the herd. The trails are natural, steep, and include changes in elevation as well as obstacles (stones, roots) unsuitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.
2. Farm layout: The Croix d'Estrine site is a working farm whose spaces (milking parlor, nursery) are not designed to accommodate mobility aids.
3. Safety in a natural environment: The hill walk requires good spatial awareness and physical responsiveness that individuals with significant visual or motor impairments cannot guarantee safely.
4. Required equipment: Hiking boots are mandatory, highlighting the "off-road" nature of the day.
"We had an absolutely fantastic day, just as interesting for adults as for children. I hope you will have more dates available; all the friends I showed the photos of this memorable experience to would be interested."_ Béatrice
"A wonderful day spent with the goats, kids, and attentive, caring goat farmers. Our granddaughter can’t wait to come back."_ Isabelle
"A beautiful place, just a stone’s throw from our home, and we didn’t even know it existed. The owner is very friendly, open, and available. Excellent value for money for the picnic lunch and the close-up visit with the animals. I will recommend it to all my friends and family. THANK YOU."_ Danielle
"We learned a lot, from breeding to cheese-making, with a walk alongside the goats. A friendly meal with tastings of farm products and more… We had a great day. Thank you, Bernard Thoron."_ Matthieu
"An incredible day with genuine people who have true values and a lot of generosity. A must-do and must-repeat experience without hesitation."_ Christine
Where does the activity take place ?
The activity takes place at the Croix d'Estrine farm in Martigues, with goat breeder Bernard.
When can you participate in this activity ?
The activity is available all year round except in summer.
What is the price of the tour ?
Prices vary depending on age, between €18.50 and €37.
What does a day at the farm include ?
The experience includes: a visit to the small farm, a cheese-making workshop, discovering the nursery, a tour of the garden and vegetable patch, learning about goat farming, and a walk in the hills with the herd if the weather allows.
From what age can children participate ?
Children can participate from 6 years old.
What should participants bring ?
It is recommended to wear suitable walking shoes and comfortable clothing.
How can I book ?
Reservations can be made through the Martigues Tourist Office.
How long does the activity last ?
Participants spend the entire day at the farm to fully enjoy the experience.
