“Where does this road lead?” a traveler once pondered. Here we are at Route d’Enco de Botte. It is a road with a story. This isn’t just any road. Route d’Enco de Botte whispers tales of a countryside haven. It sits at the gateway of Marseille.
Route d’Enco de Botte is near Les Trois Lucs. It is also close to Allauch. Enco de Pont and Enco de Botte are nearby too. The area offers a blend of urban and rural life.
Imagine taking bus number 7. It departs from La Fourragère metro station. The bus also goes from the tramway/metro 5 Avenues. You can also drive here. Parking is available near number 130 Traverse du Commandeur.
Once, Marianne led walks around here. These walks explored the area between Les Trois Lucs and Allauch. The walks also covered Enco de Pont and Enco de Botte.
The starting point was a roundabout. This roundabout connects Route d’Enco de Botte and Avenue Alfred Blachère. It is below Rue du Commandeur. The IME des Trois Lucs is close by.
Walkers passed an old grocery store. It was a reminder of the past. They also saw the Garlaban mountain in the distance. The route included a hidden staircase in Enco de Pont. This staircase led to a green path. Streets evoked the area’s peaceful atmosphere.
Walkers explored Boulevard d’Enco de Pont. It is actually a dead end. A sunken path with stone walls was also on the tour. These paths once extended further. The D44G highway cut them off.
Villas hide among the trees here. After passing the old brothel, sheep could be heard. The walk looped through the Salette forest. Finally, walkers descended Traverse de la Salette. From there, Marseille and its harbor were visible. The CMA CGM towers and La Marseillaise stood out. Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica and the Honoré quarry were also visible.
Gardens appeared when gates opened. In the distance lay the Garlaban and Étoile massifs. Even Mont Saint-Cyr behind the calanques could be seen.
Route d’Enco de Botte is more than just a road. It is a journey through time. It is a blend of city and country. It offers glimpses into Marseille’s past and present. Today, Route d’Enco de Botte continues to connect places and people. It invites us to explore its hidden corners and discover its stories. As you stand here, consider the many feet that have traveled this route before you. What stories would they tell?