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Stevenson’s Trail | Complete

14 Days
159,4 miles | 256,6 Km
Le Puy-en-Velay - Saint-Jean-du-Gard
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14 Days
159,4 miles | 256,6 Km
Le Puy-en-Velay - Saint-Jean-du-Gard
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Stevenson’s Trail | Complete

14 Days
159,4 miles | 256,6 Km
Le Puy-en-Velay - Saint-Jean-du-Gard
Personalised Quotation
Luggage Transfers
24/7 Travel Assistance
Selected Accommodations
Embark on a literary journey following in the footsteps of Robert Louis Stevenson through the rural heart of France, from Le Monastier-sur-Gazeille to Saint-Jean-du-Gard. Among ancient mule tracks, volcanic valleys and centuries-old villages, you will travel through landscapes that inspired one of the most endearing travel chronicles of the 19th century.
  • Begin your journey near Le Puy-en-Velay, a heritage gem surrounded by volcanic formations and known for its Romanesque cathedral and medieval atmosphere.
  • Cross the Gévaudan region, a land of legends and wide horizons, until you reach the Lozère mountains, with their solitary peaks and vast panoramic views.
  • Cross the Cévennes National Park, declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, among deep gorges, wooded plateaus and landscapes that change with each season.
  • Along the way, you can enjoy the local cuisine: artisan cheeses, rustic breads, chestnuts, sausages and regional wines that celebrate the flavours of southern France.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in Le Puy-en-Velay
The first day begins in Le Puy-en-Velay, a medieval gem nestled in the volcanic heart of southern France. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city surprises from the very first moment with its rugged volcanic promontories, crowned by monuments that seem suspended between earth and sky. Stroll through its cobbled streets, flanked by period houses that have hardly changed in centuries, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of its squares, terraces and markets.

If time permits, climb up to the chapel of Saint-Michel d'Aiguilhe or contemplate the monumental statue of the Virgin Mary from the top of Rocher Corneille, where the view encompasses red roofs, green hills and the beginning of an adventure that will take you through landscapes that have inspired travellers for generations.

Overnight in Le Puy-en-Velay

Hotel Bristol

Located near the historic centre, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with flat-screen televisions, private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.

It also has a restaurant where a delicious breakfast is served every morning.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 2 - Le Puy-en-Velay to Le Monastier-sur-Gazeille 11,8 miles I 19 km
The walking route begins by leaving Le Puy-en-Velay behind, following rural paths that wind their way through rolling hills and volcanic formations. The transition from urban surroundings to the countryside is gradual but evocative, marking the start of a journey steeped in history and changing landscapes.

The first section crosses Coubon, a small, quiet village that retains the rural character of the region. From here, the trail enters the landscapes of the Ardèche Mountains Regional Nature Park, where the views stretch across wooded hills, ancient volcanic cones and meadows dotted with flowers depending on the season. As you progress, the Massif Central reveals itself in all its grandeur.

Finally, you will arrive at Le Monastier-sur-Gazeille, a charming village situated on a plateau, which was Stevenson's starting point in 1878. Here, among cobbled streets, stone houses and the echoes of ancient stories, you will end the day with the feeling of having crossed a threshold between the present and the past.

Ascent: 566m (1,857ft) / Descent: 257m (843ft)

Overnight in Le Monastier-sur-Gazeille

Hotel Chevre et Chou

The hotel offers beautiful and comfortable rooms with television, private bathroom and free Wi-Fi. It also has a terrace and a spectacular restaurant where you can enjoy local dishes and products.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 3 - Le Monastier-sur-Gazeille to Le Bouchet-Saint-Nicolas 16,8 miles I 27 km
The journey continues through one of the most scenic landscapes of the route, the Loire River gorge, near Goudet. Here, the river winds between steep slopes and ancient volcanic formations, offering the perfect setting for a break.

From this point, the trail climbs towards the high plateau, where the black volcanic soil contrasts with the bright green of the Puy lentil fields. The path passes through small rural villages, some almost suspended in time, until it reaches Le Bouchet-Saint-Nicolas, a secluded and peaceful village surrounded by pastures and wide skies.

Here, Stevenson spent the night on his second day of walking, and even today the place retains the air of retreat and contemplation that so inspired the writer.

Ascent: 708m (2,323ft) / Descent: 430m (1,411ft)

Overnight in Le Bouchet-Saint-Nicolas

L'Arrestadou

Surrounded by a beautiful garden, this accommodation offers an environment in which to rest and relax. In addition, a delicious continental breakfast is served every morning.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 4 - Le Bouchet-Saint-Nicolas to Langogne 17,4 miles I 28 km
Today you will begin your journey in Arquejol, where the majestic railway viaduct rises above a deep ravine. As you progress, the trail follows the crest of a high plateau, from where the open horizons invite you to pause and contemplate the landscape.

A short detour will take you to the Rocher de la Fagette, a natural vantage point from which you can admire the gentle, rolling volcanic peaks that define this region. In the distance, Pradelles appears, suspended in time, like an echo of the area's rural history.

The road continues to Pradelles, a small village that retains the charm of its medieval past. Its quiet streets, stone houses and open views of the surrounding landscape offer a peaceful pause before the final descent.

The day ends in Langogne, the largest commercial town on the route. Here, the bustle of its streets, traditional markets and the warmth of its inhabitants offer a vibrant contrast.

Ascent: 248m (814ft) / Descent: 561m (1,841ft)

Overnight in Langogne

Hotel Beausejour

The hotel offers rooms with flat-screen televisions, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi. It also has a terrace, restaurant, and bar.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 5 - Langogne a Cheylard-l'Évêque 9,9 miles I 16 km
Today you will venture into a landscape of rolling hills, where undulating terrain unfolds between shady forests and small streams that meander peacefully, crossed by ancient stone bridges that have stood the test of time. It is a journey that invites introspection, in the heart of the remote Gévaudan countryside, a land where history blends with legend.

The path will take you to the peaceful village of Saint-Flour-de-Mercoire, a rural gem hidden among the thickets. Further on, you will cross the dense forest of Mercoire, a wild and almost magical enclave, where the vegetation seems to shut out the outside world and envelop the walker in a deep silence.

Shortly afterwards, you will arrive at Sagne-Rousse, a crossroads of paths and memories, famous for being the place where the writer Robert Louis Stevenson got hopelessly lost during his journey through the Cévennes. Here, nature imposes itself with character, and time seems to dissolve among the trees and leaf-covered paths.

The day ends with a descent along an old sunken path, an ancient trail that gently descends to the isolated village of Cheylard l'Évêque. It is a place frozen in time, where the stones of the houses seem to tell stories to the walker who stops to listen.

Ascent: 370m (1,214ft) / Descent: 153m (502ft)

Overnight in Cheylard-l'Évêque

Le Refuge du Moure

This charming accommodation offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. In addition to a delicious breakfast, you can also enjoy typical homemade dishes from the region.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 6 - Cheylard-l'Évêque to La Bastide-Puylaurent 16,7 miles I 27 km
The trail winds through rolling hills and tranquil forests, where light filters through the leaves and views open up to the distant blue mountains of the Cévennes. Further on, the route joins the old road to Luc and the terrain changes abruptly. A steep bridle path descends into the Allier valley, marking the entrance to Ardèche. The vegetation becomes denser, wilder, and the murmur of the river guides your steps towards the bottom of the valley.

After leaving Rogleton behind, a detour leads to one of the most unique places on the route, the Abbey of Notre-Dame-des-Neiges. In this secluded corner, Cistercian monks have lived in seclusion for centuries, cultivating the land and producing wine with the patience demanded by faith and the slow passage of time.

The day ends in the small village of La Bastide-Puylaurent, where the stone houses and the leisurely pace of village life offer a peaceful respite.

Ascent: 620m (2,034ft) / Descent: 719m (2,359ft)

Overnight in La Bastide-Puylaurent

Hotel La Grande Halte

Located in an old inn, this hotel offers fully equipped rooms with private bathrooms. It also has a restaurant and a bar.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 7 - La Bastide-Puylaurent to Chasseradès 7,8 miles I 12,5 km
The route begins with an ascent to La Mourade, which, at an altitude of 1,308 metres, offers clear and breathtaking views to the south, where the Cévennes mountains form a deep blue horizon.

The path continues through the majestic Domaniale Forest of La Gardille, a vast sanctuary of pine and fir trees that envelops walkers in its coolness and silence. After crossing the Chabalier area, the trail gently leads to Chasseradès, a historic village that seems frozen in time, with its stone houses and dark roofs peeking out from among the trees.

Today's stage, shorter than the previous ones, allows for a leisurely pace. There is time to stop, contemplate the landscape without rushing, take photographs or enjoy a picnic by the side of the road.

Ascent: 354m (1,161ft) / Descent: 211m (692ft)

Overnight in Chasseradès

Les Airelles

Recently renovated so you can enjoy all kinds of amenities, this accommodation offers rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. You can also enjoy home cooking and traditional dishes.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 8 - Chasseradès to Le Bleymard 10,9 miles I 17,6 km
The trail starts in Chasseradès and soon passes through the small village of Mirandol, where houses with lauzes roofs preserve the authentic character of the region. At the entrance to the valley, an imposing 30-metre viaduct stands as a testament to engineering that defies geography without disrupting its harmony.

The route then enters the Goulet massif, covered by thick coniferous forests that envelop the path in shade and coolness. This is the first major climb of the route, demanding but generous in its reward, with majestic views opening up over valleys and peaks.

From there, the trail descends, following the course of the River Lot. Between bends and clearings, Le Bleymard finally appears, at an altitude of 1,413 metres. This quiet mountain village, considered the gateway to the Cévennes National Park, sits beneath the old cattle track known as La Draille des Mulets, which for centuries served as a passageway for shepherds and their flocks.

Ascent: 424m (1,391ft) / Descent: 520m (1,706ft)

Overnight in Le Bleymard

Hotel La Remise

Built in 1870, this accommodation offers rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. It also has a terrace, a restaurant and a bar.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 9 - Le Bleymard to Pont de Montvert 12,4 miles I 20 km
Today is one of the most memorable days of the journey. Along the way, ancient menhirs, known locally as Montjoies, emerge from the grass and stones, marking the route as they did for centuries for shepherds, pilgrims and solitary travellers.

The ascent leads to Mont Lozère, a former ski resort that transforms into a vast, luminous open space in summer. From here, the trail continues until it reaches Pic de Finiels, which at 1,699 metres is the highest point not only of the route, but of the entire Cévennes mountain range.

The view from the summit is breathtaking, with rolling mountains stretching out to the south and the clean air giving a feeling of lightness that contrasts with the firmness of the rock beneath your feet.

The descent is steep and winds through a landscape of scattered rocks and whimsical shapes, almost sculpted by the wind and time. Each turn of the trail offers a new postcard view as the path descends towards Pont de Montvert, a charming village nestled between rivers and mountains, where history and nature merge in a silent embrace.

Ascent: 657m (2,156ft) / Descent: 810m (2,657ft)

Overnight in Pont de Montvert

Auberge des Cevennes

Located in a privileged setting, this accommodation offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.

It also has a restaurant with a beautiful terrace on the banks of the river.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 10 - Pont de Montvert to Florac 18 miles I 29 km
Few experiences compare to walking deep into the wild and powerful heart of the Cévennes. Today's stage, the longest of the entire route, has climbs that challenge your legs and descents that test your endurance. But every effort is rewarded by the untamed beauty of the landscape, which unfolds generously at every turn of the trail.

The path crosses the Col du Sapet, a mountain pass offering sweeping views over valleys covered with deep forests and rolling hills, where the horizon seems endless. From there, the route descends towards Bédouès, a small enclave marked by tranquillity and its proximity to the River Tarn.

The last stretch leads to Florac, a hidden gem nestled among mountains, set in a landscape that seems to have been sculpted by water and time. This charming village, with its discreet castle and two large squares surrounded by restaurants and shops, is the perfect place to stop and savour the end of a demanding but unforgettable day.

Ascent: 657m (2,156ft) / Descent: 1042m (3,419ft)

Overnight in Florac

Hotel Des Gorges Du Tarn

This hotel offers well-equipped rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. It also has a garden and terrace where you can relax at the end of the day. It also has a restaurant and bar.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 11 - Florac to Cassagnas 11,8 miles I 19 km
The day begins calmly in the picturesque streets of Florac, where every corner seems to whisper ancient stories. Take some time to stroll through its squares, peek into its small shops and enjoy the serene atmosphere before setting off again.

Soon, the trail enters a different landscape, the Mimente Valley, marked by the intense reddish hue of its rock and the abrupt shapes carved into the terrain. The first part of the day is demanding, with steep climbs and narrow passes opening up between hills and ridges.

As you progress, the terrain becomes gentler and the pace more comfortable. The trail follows the course of the gorge, travelling along the old railway line, now transformed into a peaceful path through woods and meadows.

The day ends in the village of Cassagnas, a small rural settlement where time seems to pass slowly. Here, in the middle of the Cévennes countryside, nature and history walk hand in hand, accompanying travellers who let themselves be carried away by the steps of this ancient route.

Ascent: 503m (1,650ft) / Descent: 198m (649ft)

Overnight in Cassagnas

Espace Stevenson

Located in beautiful natural surroundings, this accommodation offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. It also has a terrace, a bar and a restaurant.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 12 - Cassagnas to Saint-Étienne-Vallée-Française 17,7 miles I 28,5 km
The route continues into the deep forests of the Camisards region, the scene of ancient Protestant revolts that marked the history of these mountains between 1685 and 1715. Walking along these trails is like walking in footsteps laden with memory, where nature seems to keep, among the trees, the echoes of a silent and persistent struggle.

The trail skirts the Monte Mars basin, enveloped in intense greens and the constant presence of chestnut trees, whose generous canopies accompany every step. The ascent to La Plan de Fontmort is gentle but steady, offering a succession of landscapes that alternate between shade and light, as if the forest were playing with the light.

Further on, the path joins other GR forest trails until it reaches the Col de la Pierre Plantée, at an altitude of 891 metres. There, in the midst of the vegetation, mysterious menhirs emerge, witnesses to an even more remote time, of forgotten rites and ancient peoples.

From the pass, an old track descends gently, flanked once again by centuries-old chestnut trees, until it reaches the bottom of the valley. The destination for the day is the beautiful Saint-Étienne-Vallée-Française, where history, nature and rural life intertwine in perfect harmony.

Ascent: 464m (1,522ft) / Descent: 1063m (3,488ft)

Overnight in Saint-Étienne-Vallée-Française

Château de Cambiaire

This spectacular 14th-century accommodation is located in a privileged setting surrounded by nature.

Its rooms have private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. It also has a restaurant.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 13 - Saint-Étienne-Vallée-Française to Saint-Jean-du-Gard 8,1 miles I 13 km
The last stretch of the journey begins with an ascent to the summit of Saint-Pierre, where the effort of the previous days finds its ultimate reward: a 360-degree panorama encompassing the immensity of the Cévennes. From here, the landscape unfolds like a living map of mountains, valleys and memories, symbolically marking the end of the journey.

The descent takes you along quiet paths to the charming village of Pied de Côte, with its stone houses and gardens. From there, the trail levels out as it follows the course of the Gardon River, offering a final peaceful walk alongside the water.

An ancient bridge marks the entrance to St-Jean-du-Gard, the town where Robert Louis Stevenson ended his journey and sold his faithful donkey Modestine.

Ascent: 398m (1,306ft) / Descent: 454m (1,489ft)

Overnight in Saint-Jean-du-Gard

Hotel Les Bellugues

This beautiful, modern hotel offers comfortable, well-equipped rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. It also has a terrace, a garden and a bar.

*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 14 - Saint-Jean-du-Gard
After a delicious breakfast, it is time to say goodbye and return to your place of origin.

End of our services.

Itinerary Map

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    Services

    Included

    • Accommodation in en suite rooms
    • Daily Breakfasts
    • Luggage transfers between accommodations
    • Information dossier with maps and routes
    • 24-hour telephone support
    • Sustainable travel, we compensate the CO2 emissions of your trip
    • Taxes

    Extras

    • Travel insurance
    • Cancellation insurance
    • Additional nights

    Accomodation

    General information


    The accommodations with which we collaborate have a private bathroom and all the necessary services to ensure the best comfort available.

    Our team checks in situ the quality of all the accommodations offered, so that you have an unforgettable experience during your trip.

    The accommodation that we will book for your trip will be selected taking into account our commitment to you: guaranteeing comfort, calm and enjoyment throughout your trip.

    We work with quality hotels and country cottages with limited capacity, so we invite you to confirm your reservation as soon as possible.

    The name of each accommodation will be provided to you a few weeks before your trip begins.

    Room types


    It is possible to book this journey in single, double or triple rooms.

    All rooms have private bathrooms.

    Travel & Transfers

    To reach the starting point of this walking trail, we recommend flying to Lyon Airport. From there, take a train to Gare de Lyon Part-Dieu station, where you will then take a TGV to the centre of Le Puy (via Saint-Étienne-Châteaucreux). You can also travel to Le Puy by train from Nîmes, Clermont-Ferrand and Montpellier.

    You can find all the information you need about trains on the SNCF website.

    To return to your city of origin from Saint-Jean-du-Gard, you can fly from Lyon Airport. First, you will need to take a bus to Alès or Nîmes station. Please note that these buses do not run very frequently. You can check the timetables on the liO – Région Occitanie website.

    Then, from either location, you can take a train to the airport. You can find more information about trains on the SNCF website.

    FAQs

    Is luggage transfer included? What are the luggage requirements?
    Absolutely! Each traveller has included 1 piece of luggage that we will transfer between your accommodations. It's important that this piece of luggage meets the following criterias:
    • Maximum weight of 45 lbs (20 kg).
    • Must be only 1 piece of luggage without any attachments or accessories.
    • Should not contain valuables, fragile items, food or medications.
    • Must be correctly identified (booking reference of your trip and the full name of the trip holder).
    The approximate luggage delivery time will be at 4:00 PM.
    What is the best time of year to do this trip?
    The route is available from late April to October, covering the best seasons for walking. Spring, especially May and June, offers pleasant temperatures and an explosion of wildflowers in full bloom. In July and August, the heat can be intense, so it is recommended to start your walks early, although the villages come alive with the hustle and bustle of summer. September marks a charming transition, with landscapes tinged with reds and golds, chestnut harvesting and spectacular storms heralding the end of summer.
    What should my physical preparation be?
    This route is of medium-high difficulty, making it ideal for people looking for 6 to 7 hours of walking per day with climbs that can be steeper and longer. It is recommended that you are in good physical condition and in good health. Some sections of the walk have uneven terrain, including rocky areas.
    How far in advance should I book my trip?
    We recommend that you book as soon as you are sure about your dates, as accommodation can fill up very quickly in this area.
    What equipment do I need to bring?
    Once you make your reservation we will send you all the detailed information about the specific equipment you need for this route, considering recommendations for shoes, boots, clothes and a day-to day backpack.
    What if I'm not able to finish one of the stages?
    You can call us to arrange a private transfer for you. If you prefer, you can also use public transport or local taxis to get to your next accommodation.

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