Mouton d'Anou Loop

The running loop starts and ends in the charming medieval village of Bézaudun-les-Alpes. You should be able to find parking within the village itself, near the ancient tower or church, which serves as a convenient starting point for your run.

While the Parc naturel régional des Préalpes d'Azur generally welcomes dogs, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users. Please also remember to clean up after your pet.

Spring and autumn are generally ideal for running this loop, offering pleasant temperatures and clear skies. In spring, you might even catch lavender fields in bloom. Summer can be warm, so an early morning start is recommended. While winter offers crisp air and potentially snow-capped mountain views, some sections might be slippery or require more appropriate gear.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access this running loop within the Parc naturel régional des Préalpes d'Azur. Enjoy the natural beauty freely!

This running loop is rated as difficult on komoot, requiring very good fitness and sure-footedness. It covers 10.3 km with approximately 290 meters of elevation gain. The varied terrain, including rocky paths and ascents, contributes to its challenging nature, making sturdy shoes essential.

The route features a diverse mix of surfaces. You'll encounter narrow and rocky paths, wider earthy and stony tracks, and sections through wooded areas. There are also parts that follow a wider "piste du Gaz" and some stretches of paved or asphalt road. Be prepared for varied conditions underfoot.

The primary highlight is undoubtedly the summit of Mouton d'Anou (1079m), which offers magnificent panoramic views. From here, you can see the snow-capped Mercantour mountains to the east and the Mediterranean Sea, including Cap d'Antibes and the Lérins Islands, to the south. You'll also pass through the peaceful countryside of the Préalpes d'Azur and enjoy views of the Baous (limestone hills) of the Vence hinterland.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. Notably, it covers significant sections of the official trails like Les Chemins du Soleil and Autour du Col de Vence - 1. You'll also find parts that overlap with Le Grand Tour des Préalpes d'Azur - Etape 6 and various sections of Chemin de Villeplaine.

While some sections may have clear indications, a lack of consistent signage on parts of the trail has been noted. It is highly advisable to carry a GPS device or a detailed map, such as the one available on komoot, to help with navigation and ensure you stay on track.

As this is a natural running loop, there are no dedicated facilities like restrooms or water fountains directly on the trail. It's essential to carry enough water for your entire run and plan for any restroom breaks before you start or after you finish in Bézaudun-les-Alpes.