This is a fairly leisurely walk, especially if you drive up to the Durban signposts (the Chemin D’Urban from Beaumes – see the town map). The alternative is to climb to the Durban signposts as per the second option for the Notre Dame D’Aubune walk.
At the second signpost follow the road north to Sourias (1.7km). Go right at the T junction, unless you want to go to the Domaine D’Urban for a degustation, and continue on for about 1.5km. there are great views east to Mont Ventoux and north to the Dentelles de Montmirail. After about 1km the road becomes more of a dirt track and there is a crossroads. Keep on straight through the middle of the vineyard; there are iron canisters with yellow markings to your left.
After another 250 metres or so take a left turn; there is a rock on the ground on your right with a yellow cross indicating not to keep going straight. Follow this more up and down and winding path until you reach the Sourias way post and a broad, loose stone road. Turn left towards Chante Coucou (3.7km). Enjoy a leisurely, winding descent through the forest. There are occasional yellow markers on trees and rocks and even a run-down building to reassure you to keep to this track.
The track eventually becomes a tarred road, the Route de Montmirail, and you will pass the very tempting Hôtel Montmirail on your right. You then go round a couple of sharp bends and past the mysterious and grand Villa Theophile. Keep straight on the road across a couple of crossroads and past the Domaine La Fourmone before you reach the Chante Coucou signpost on your left. Go left, signposted Beaumes de Venise (4.3km).
Follow this road for about 700 metres through the hamlet of Les Crottes. You then face an important choice. The road dips down and goes right with a well made track to the left. If you parked at the Durban signpost, then you must turn left here on to the Chemin D’Embosi. If you got to Durban on foot then keep right on the road which will take you down to Notre Dame D’Aubune and the way directly into Beaumes. You will quickly know if you have made the right choice. If the cliffs are on your right, you are on your way to Durban. If they are on your left, you are on your way to Beaumes.
The wide track gives an easy ascent of a couple of kilometres back to Durban.
About 7km, just over 2 hours.